Outemu Lotus vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus 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 Lotus and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Lotus is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes, making it a favorite among gamers and fast typists. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump during actuation while also minimizing noise, making it a great choice for those who value a quieter typing experience. While the Lotus excels in its simplicity and straightforward design, the Silent T1 stands out for its versatile nature, offering both tactility and silence. 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
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Overall, the Outemu Lotus and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature nylon bottom housings, which will result in a similar typing experience in terms of feel and sound. The nylon material used in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter switch.
However, where these two switches differ is in their top housings. The Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its bottom housing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, lending a distinctly clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the typing experience.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their top housings, the similarities in their nylon bottom housings provide a comparable typing experience. The nylon material in both bottom housings leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a quieter switch. The differences in sound profile between the two switches come from their respective top housings, with the nylon top housing of the Lotus offering a deeper sound and the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) providing a sharper, crisper sound and an enhanced aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch differ in weight, providing different typing experiences for users. The Lotus has a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the lighter Lotus switch for longer typing sessions or the heavier Silent T1 for a more tactile and substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent T1. The 3.3 mm travel distance of the Lotus provides a quicker response time, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent T1 offers a deeper key press sensation, which may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker travel distance or a longer, more tactile experience.
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 Lotus 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 Lotus switch is known for a normal level of noise, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is specifically designed to produce a muted sound, making it ideal for quiet environments. The muted sound of the Silent T1 switch minimizes the typical clacky noise associated with mechanical keyboards, offering a more subtle and pleasant typing experience for those who prefer a quieter workspace.
Moving on to feel, the Lotus switch does not have any specific tactile characteristics mentioned, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as having a stepped and accented tactile feel. The stepped feel of the Silent T1 provides a two-stage tactile sensation, offering a more nuanced typing experience with discernible pre-travel and post-travel. Additionally, the accented tactility of the switch provides a medium level of feedback that is noticeable but not overpowering, creating a satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance between tactility and smoothness.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch provides a standard typing experience without any specific sound or tactile characteristics mentioned, while the Silent T1 switch caters to users who prefer a quieter typing environment with its muted sound profile and stepped, accented tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences for noise level and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prioritizes a specific sound profile or tactile feel in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a switch with no particular standout feature, the Lotus may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, tactile feedback, and a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and simple switch with the Lotus, or a medium-heavy and tactile switch with the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for a more engaging typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
