Outemu Red vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Red switch, a linear switch, is known for its smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying bump, quieter operation, and a cushioned bottom-out feel, perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 is categorized as a switch with stepped, accented, muted, and polished qualities, adding to its appeal. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on personal preferences and specific 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Outemu Red features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing on the switches. Both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon for their bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Outemu Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a unique sound profile for each switch. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall typing experience. The differences in housing materials between the switches result in distinct sound profiles, showcasing how the choice of materials can significantly impact the acoustics of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range. The Outemu Red has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force, making the Red switch more responsive to keystrokes. However, the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while the Outemu Red may offer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a more robust and satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of distance traveled, allowing users to know what to expect no matter which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, they are equal in length, making them suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing feel.
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 Red 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 Red switch is known for being relatively quiet, especially compared to clicky switches. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is specifically designed to be muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to keep noise levels to a minimum in their workspace. It's important to note that the sound profile of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is known for its linear action without any tactile bump or click. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch has a stepped and accented tactile feel, providing users with a noticeable bump during keystrokes but without being too overwhelming or sharp. The polished finish of the Silent T1 also contributes to a smoother typing experience with reduced friction. This combination of tactile feedback and silenced operation can enhance typing comfort and precision for users who prefer a more controlled and refined feel.
Overall, the Outemu Red switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Red switch is quieter with a linear action, the Silent T1 provides a muted typing experience with a tactile bump and polished finish. Depending on your preferences for noise level and typing feedback, both switches can deliver satisfying results. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Red or the Silent T1, you can expect a reliable and responsive typing experience from these mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Red linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for noise level and typing feel. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and are not concerned about noise, the Outemu Red may be the better option for you. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a padded bottom-out feel that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the more suitable choice. With its medium bump and muted sound profile, the Silent T1 offers a unique typing experience that combines tactility with silence. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard.
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