Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow 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 Cream Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) stand out as popular choices in the tactile switch category. The Cream Yellow is best known for its smooth tactile bump and satisfying typing experience, while the Silent T1 is perfect for those who desire both tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The Cream Yellow falls under the category of standard tactile switches, while the Silent T1 is characterized by its stepped, accented, muted, and polished attributes. Both switches have their unique selling points that cater to different preferences and 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that when typing on switches with either of these housing materials, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound created by nylon bottom housings can provide a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter typing sound. However, one key difference lies in the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing versus the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s polycarbonate top housing, which can result in different sound profiles.
While the Cream Yellow features a nylon top housing that contributes to its sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature compared to nylon, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a preferred material for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the typing experience. Overall, users can expect a different sound and feel when typing on switches with these contrasting top housing materials, allowing for a personalized preference based on sound profile and aesthetics.
In the case of switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether it's nylon or polycarbonate, will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released, creating a distinct sound profile based on the material used. Despite the differences in top housing materials between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preferences for sound profile and tactile feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent T1 is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Cream Yellow's 60 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow provides a lighter initial typing feel but requires more force to fully press down, while the Silent T1 offers a heavier initial typing feel but less force needed to bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy force overall, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel despite the differences in force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cream Yellow will provide a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who value speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will offer a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Both switches have their own advantages and disadvantages, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Cream Yellow 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 Cream Yellow switch is known for a lack of specific information, which suggests that it may not have any standout characteristics in terms of sound. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is praised for its muted sound profile. This means that the Silent T1 switch produces a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches, making it a great option for those who prefer a more discreet typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch does not have any specific information available. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as a stepped, accented, and polished switch. This indicates that the Silent T1 switch offers a tactile experience with two stages of feedback, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Outemu Cream Yellow and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer different subjective qualities. While the Cream Yellow lacks specific information on sound and feel, the Silent T1 shines with its muted sound profile and stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard build when choosing between these switches to ensure that you achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, noise level, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and aren't concerned about noise, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. However, if you prioritize a silenced switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and noise level in order to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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