Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are two popular choices within the tactile switch category. The Crystal Brown is known for its [None] while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) stands out for providing a tactile and silenced experience, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. The Crystal Brown falls under a different category, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is classified as ['Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', 'Polished']. If you prefer a standard tactile switch without additional features, the Crystal Brown may be the way to go. However, for those seeking a tactile switch with noise reduction capabilities and a unique feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be a better fit. 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
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
Partial box
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
In comparing the two housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. When it comes to the nylon bottom housing, both switches utilize this classic material to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials in the switches can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by the polycarbonate top housing influence the sound when a key is released, creating a distinct auditory feedback for the user. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. By having different materials for the top and bottom housings, each switch is able to offer a unique typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) demonstrates how material composition can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials and their specific characteristics create distinct typing experiences for users. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. The Crystal Brown is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Silent T1, providing a lighter typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Silent T1 may be the better choice due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing style and desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and tactility when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback experience despite any potential differences in other characteristics.
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 Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so its sound characteristics may vary. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for its muted sound profile. This means the Silent T1 will produce a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Crystal Brown, making it well-suited for noise-sensitive environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch lacks a description of its tactile feel. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for its stepped, accented, and polished feel. This means that the Silent T1 provides a tactile experience with distinct stages during the keystroke, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither too subtle nor overpowering. The polished finish of the Silent T1 contributes to a smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for users.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer different subjective qualities. While the Crystal Brown's sound profile and tactile feel are not explicitly described, the Silent T1 stands out for its muted sound and stepped, accented, polished tactile characteristics. If you prefer a switch with a quieter typing experience and a medium level of tactility, the Silent T1 would be a suitable choice. However, if you are looking for a more customizable option or have specific preferences in mind, exploring both switches firsthand will provide a more accurate understanding of how they perform in practice. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and do not require a silent switch, the Crystal Brown may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers both a tactile bump and a quieter typing experience, then the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the ideal option. The Silent T1 is especially suited for noise-sensitive environments and offers a unique combination of a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing feel, sound level, and overall typing experience.
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