Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu dustproof purple and the Durock silent T1. The dustproof purple switch is known for its clicky sound. On the other hand, the silent T1 switch is perfect for individuals looking for a tactile switch with a silenced operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. This switch offers a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, characterized by a stepped, accented, muted, and polished design. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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 housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Despite sharing this housing material, the two switches may offer slight variations in sound due to other factors such as stem design or overall construction.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a nylon bottom housing as well. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This material choice may provide a slightly muted and rounder sound compared to harder plastic bottoms. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, offering a more satisfying typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
Considering how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed in a switch, it's important to note that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Dustproof Purple and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have similarities in their housing materials, the unique design elements and overall construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in sound and typing experience. Overall, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Purple has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams and the Silent T1 at 67 grams. The Dustproof Purple provides a lighter typing experience for those who prefer less resistance, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that pressing down on a key with either of these switches will result in a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them comparable in this aspect. Users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel distance with either switch.
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 Purple 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 Purple switch does not have a specific descriptor available, so it is important to note that clicky switches typically produce a loud and distinct sound due to the audible click mechanism. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for being muted, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes the Silent T1 ideal for users who prefer a more subdued audio feedback in noise-sensitive environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have a specific descriptor available either. Clicky switches are known for their tactile feedback with a noticeable bump during actuation and a satisfying click sound. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped, meaning it provides a two-stage tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. It is also accented, offering a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and polished for a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel, they both cater to specific preferences. If you enjoy a loud and distinct click sound with tactile feedback, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you should take into account your specific preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not concerned about noise levels, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a balanced combination of tactile feedback and quiet operation for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound, feel, and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
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