KTT Orange vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Orange and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The KTT Orange switch is a linear switch known for its bouncy type feel and frictionless typing experience. With its polycarbonate milky top housing, POM stem, and vibrant orange nylon bottom housing, this switch not only provides a slick and smooth key travel, but also emits a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a tactile experience with a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. Designed for noise-sensitive environments, this switch also offers muted audio feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing options for different needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) have some similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Orange differs from the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Orange uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is likely to offer a different typing experience compared to the KTT Orange, especially in terms of sound when bottoming out a key.
It is worth noting that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are divided between the two switches. When pressing down the switch, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel becomes prominent. On the other hand, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect some distinction between the two switches in terms of the overall typing experience and sound characteristics, particularly during key presses and releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is clear that there are both similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Orange switch is lighter with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Orange switch would be the ideal choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to type for extended periods, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions.
On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and robust typing experience may gravitate towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch. With its heavier bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial typing experience. This can be preferred by users who desire a noticeable tactile feedback from their keyboard.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch remains unknown, its higher bottom out force sets it apart from the lighter Orange switch. However, both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have different travel distances. The Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is considered on the shorter side, while the Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is closer to the more traditional distance. If you're a gamer looking for quicker response times, the Orange switch with its shorter travel distance may be more appealing. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Silent T1's longer travel distance may be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the KTT Orange switch is known for its low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as muted, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Both switches offer a different sound profile depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, but the Orange switch is generally low-pitched while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is more muted.
In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The use of a 22mm long spring gives it a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with rebound when pressed. It also has a smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feedback. It offers a more mild bump compared to hypertactile switches and allows for feeling some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the KTT Orange and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and frictionless feel, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch has a muted sound profile with a stepped and accented feel. These differences make each switch suitable for different preferences and environments. However, it is important to note that individual experiences may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. It is recommended to try out both switches or read more reviews to determine which one aligns more with personal preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a slick, frictionless typing experience, then the KTT Orange switch is the perfect choice for you. With its bouncy feel, low-pitched sound profile, and excellent factory-lubing, this switch offers a refined and fluid key travel that ensures minimal friction and maximizes smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and desire both a tactile and silenced switch, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the ideal option. Known for its padded bottom-out feel, medium bump, and subdued audio feedback, this switch is perfect for noise-sensitive environments. It provides a stepped feel, accented tactility, and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and sleek typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches would depend on your preference for key resistance, typing feel, and sound profile.
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