Everglide Oreo vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Oreo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Oreo switch is renowned for its delightful combination of a crisp tactile bump at the top and a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. With a medium light tactility, it strikes a satisfying balance between a tactile response and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Oreo produces a subtle, mellow sound profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is designed to satisfy both tactile and noise-sensitive needs. Featuring a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, it provides a satisfying tactile response while minimizing the sound produced during keystrokes. This makes it perfect for individuals in noise-sensitive environments who wish to still enjoy the tactile experience without disturbing others nearby. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Oreo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Therefore, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Oreo or Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches' polycarbonate top housing.
However, the Oreo and Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their bottom housing materials. The Oreo utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which ensures consistency in the sound profile throughout the typing experience. The stiffer plastic once again contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. As a result, users can expect a slightly duller and rounder sound when typing on the Silent T1 (Shrimp) compared to the Oreo.
It is important to note that the difference in bottom housing materials will impact the sound and feel of the switches when they are pressed down. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, will have a more noticeable effect on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing, which is shared between the two switches, will play a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Oreo and Silent T1 (Shrimp) have variations in their housing materials, users can still expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with minor differences in the bottom-out sound depending on the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Oreo switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is currently unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Oreo switch requires 55 grams of force, which can be considered medium-light, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch demands 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. It is worth noting that both switches offer a substantial typing experience, but the Oreo switch is comparatively lighter, ideal for individuals seeking a keyboard for extended periods of typing or long gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch, which provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent feeling of travel over this distance. Both switches offer a tactile response, providing a satisfying sensation when pressing down on the keys. Whether you choose the Everglide Oreo or the Durock Silent T1 switches, you can expect a similar travel experience with a 4 mm distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 comparing the sound of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we find that the Oreo has a subtle and mellow sound profile. This means that typing on the Oreo switch will not produce any loud or clacky noises, making it suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as having a muted sound. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Oreo and Silent T1 (Shrimp) are described as stepped and accented. Stepped switches have a two-stage feel, meaning that there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel along with the tactile bump. This can provide a more mild and nuanced tactile experience compared to switches with a single large bump throughout the keystroke. Accented switches, on the other hand, provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. They offer a medium amount of tactile feedback that strikes a balance between satisfying keystrokes and comfortable typing.
In conclusion, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have some similarities in terms of feel, as both are described as stepped and accented. This means that they offer a medium amount of tactility and provide a comfortable typing experience. While the sound of the Oreo is described as subtle and mellow, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its muted sound that minimizes noise. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to fully assess the sound characteristics. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and a balanced tactile experience, the Oreo switch would be a great choice. It offers a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo also has a mellow sound profile, which may be appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams and seek a tactile switch with silenced properties, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is the way to go. It provides a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 also offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, both switches fall into the category of accented and stepped switches. They provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Silent T1 is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Oreo and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider your typing environment, desired tactile experience, and any noise sensitivities to make an informed decision. Happy typing!
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