Outemu Black vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer unique features for different preferences. The Outemu Black is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump upon actuation while also being designed to reduce noise, making it ideal for quiet environments. While the Black may be preferred for its straightforward performance, the Silent T1 is perfect for those looking for a tactile experience with minimal sound. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for switch enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile that enhances the typing experience.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Outemu Black features a nylon bottom housing, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the Outemu Black potentially offering a deeper sound compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp).
In conclusion, while both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for their top housings, the variation in their bottom housing materials may lead to subtle differences in sound and feel during typing. The Outemu Black's nylon bottom housing may provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) may offer a slightly different typing experience with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for the user's keyboard setup.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Black is heavier at 82 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is slightly lighter at 67 grams. This means that the Outemu Black will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, which may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Outemu Black being heavier and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) being slightly lighter.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying key press with their respective tactile or linear feedback. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and response when using either one. This means that whether you choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for producing a standard mechanical keyboard click without any specific characteristics to note. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile. This means that the Silent T1 will provide a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the typical clacky noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch doesn't have a specific feel profile mentioned. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. The stepped feel indicates that the switch has two stages of tactile feedback, offering a mild bump during keystrokes. The accented tactile feedback provides a medium level of tactility that is noticeable but not overwhelming. The polished finish on the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring a sleek key travel.
Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch with standard sound and no specific feel characteristics, the Outemu Black would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a quieter sound profile, a medium bump, and a cushioned bottom-out feel, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the way to go. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your needs, so it's essential to consider what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a linear switch without any additional features, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a medium-heavy bottom out force, a tactile switch with a padded bottom-out feel, and a quieter typing experience for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
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