Outemu Cold Plum vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Cold Plum is a linear switch loved for its thocky sound profile and nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for something unique. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that offers a perfect combination of tactile feedback and silence, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch caters to those who appreciate both tactile response and quiet operation. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock Silent T1 feature nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Silent T1 features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, providing a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum elicits a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a softer and more absorbent typing experience. This distinction in top housing materials will have a noticeable impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In conclusion, while the bottom housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock Silent T1 are the same, their top housing materials offer contrasting sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 produces a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum creates a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users may prefer one switch over the other based on the specific qualities each housing material brings to the table.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see that the Cold Plum is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Cold Plum. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required for typing. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial and pressurized typing feel may opt for the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we see a clear difference between the two. The Cold Plum has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent T1. This means that the Cold Plum will offer a quicker response time for users who prefer a shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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 Cold Plum 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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a muted sound profile that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, along with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel for tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the distinct sound of the Cold Plum switch or the quiet operation of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch. Ultimately, both switches provide their own unique feel and sound profiles, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If a user enjoys a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a thocky sound, they may find the Cold Plum switch to be suitable. Conversely, if they prefer a tactile switch with a muted sound for a noise-sensitive environment, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be a great choice. Overall, choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preference in sound and feel for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, the Cold Plum would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are in need of a tactile and silenced switch that offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and minimized noise for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Ultimately, the Cold Plum is for those who prioritize a distinct and enjoyable typing feel, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal for those seeking a silent tactile experience. Choose accordingly based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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