Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue 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 Dustproof Blue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) stand out for their unique qualities. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, offering a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch designed for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. This switch provides a medium bump, cushioned bottom-out feel, and minimized noise, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. The Dustproof Blue is ideal for those who enjoy the audible click and tactile response, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for users who prioritize a tactile typing experience with reduced noise levels. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 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 terms of housing materials, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches feature polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Despite having the same top housing material, the bottom housings differ, with the Dustproof Blue utilizing nylon and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While the top housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are the same, the bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing's influence is more noticeable when a key is released, affecting the sound at that moment. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through a combination of clear acoustics and tactile feedback throughout the key press.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) greatly influences the sound and tactile feel of the switches. While polycarbonate top housings create a sharper and crisper sound profile, nylon bottom housings add depth and fullness to the sound. This highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch, as they work together to create a unique typing experience. Whether choosing the Dustproof Blue or the Silent T1 (Shrimp), users can expect similar results in terms of clarity, resonance, and typing satisfaction due to the thoughtful combination of housing materials in each switch.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 67 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of resistance. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Blue would be the better option, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and might be prone to bottoming out, the Durock Silent T1 would provide a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation with both switches. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is equal, making them suitable options for those who prefer a consistent travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Dustproof Blue 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 Dustproof Blue switch is known for its crisp and loud click, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 still retains a tactile bump for feedback without the loud click of traditional switches, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between tactile feel and sound reduction.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a tactile and audible typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a subtle bump without the audible feedback. The polished finish of the Silent T1 ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch excels in providing a tactile typing experience with a loud click, perfect for those who enjoy the feedback of a traditional mechanical switch. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a more subdued typing experience with a tactile bump and a muted sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. If you are looking for a loud and clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Blue is a great choice with its medium-heavy bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal with its medium bump and muted sound profile. Additionally, the Silent T1 offers a unique stepped, accented, and polished feel for a refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and noise level in your workspace.
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