Outemu Silent Green vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock T1 offer distinct typing experiences. The Silent Green is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and silent operation. On the other hand, the T1 is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. While the Silent Green may be preferred for its quiet typing experience, the T1 is praised for its comfortable tactile feedback. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock T1 switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the Silent Green also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing the same sound profile throughout the switch, while the T1 opts for a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock T1 switches will impact the overall typing experience differently. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches will have a significant influence on the sound produced when letting go of a key, producing a sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the differences in bottom housing materials come into play when typing and bottoming out keys, with the nylon bottom housing of the T1 creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green. Therefore, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound (Silent Green) or a deeper and fuller sound (T1) while typing.
While both the Outemu Silent Green and the Durock T1 switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Silent Green utilizing polycarbonate for a consistent sound profile and the T1 using nylon for a deeper tone. Despite this difference, both switches offer clear and resonant sound profiles thanks to the stiff nature of polycarbonate in their top housings. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the sound and feel while typing, with the Silent Green providing a sharper sound and the T1 offering a deeper and fuller tone.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Silent Green requires a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that while the Silent Green is lighter to press down initially, it requires more force to fully press the key compared to the T1. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Green, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that the typing experience with both switches will be comparable in terms of key travel. Additionally, the consistent travel distance of 4 mm for both switches may provide a similar level of tactile feedback and keypress actuation for users. Ultimately, whether using the Outemu Silent Green linear switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, users can expect a smooth typing experience with a standard 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
The Outemu Silent Green 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 Silent Green switch is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have specific descriptors available. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch is noted for its stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. This means that the T1 switch provides a two-stage tactile feedback with a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the smooth and refined finish of the T1 switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, if you prefer a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Green switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium bump and comfortable feel, the Durock T1 switch would be a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your personal typing preferences to achieve a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Silent Green may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, then the T1 switch would be a great option. Consider your preferences for feel, sound, and typing comfort when making your decision between these two switches.
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