Outemu Tom vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom 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 Tom and Durock Silent T1 are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Tom is known for its versatility and falls within a certain category. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 stands out for providing a tactile and silenced typing experience, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch is categorized as stepped, accented, muted, and polished. If you are looking for a more traditional typing experience, the Outemu Tom may be the way to go. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, its translucency allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those seeking a visually appealing switch. Though both switches have this material in common, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Tom's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing but with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound.
While the top housings of the Outemu Tom and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are identical in their use of polycarbonate, the bottom housings offer contrasting sound profiles. The Tom's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, giving a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced sound experience for users, with the bottom housings influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Outemu Tom and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer unique sound profiles due to their choice of housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharp and crisp sound, especially ideal for those looking to showcase RGB lighting. However, the differences in their nylon bottom housings offer distinct typing experiences, with the Tom producing a deeper sound and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) resulting in a rounder sound. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Outemu Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In terms of weight, the Outemu Tom is lighter than the Silent T1 (Shrimp) due to its lower actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may prefer the Outemu Tom for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Tom offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a deeper and more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the Tom being the shorter option and the Silent T1 being the longer option in terms of travel distance.
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 Tom 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 Tom and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer different experiences. The Tom switch's sound profile is not specified, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional switches. This makes the Silent T1 ideal for those in noise-sensitive environments or those looking for a more subtle typing sound. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom's tactile sensation is not detailed, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its stepped and accented tactile feedback. The stepped nature of the Silent T1 switch gives the keystroke a two-stage feel, with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, the switch offers an accented tactile bump that is noticeable but not overwhelming, providing a balanced tactile experience. Furthermore, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction for a more comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Tom and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch's sound profile and tactile feel are not specifically described, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a muted typing sound and a stepped, accented, and polished tactile sensation. If you are looking for a switch that combines both tactility and silence, the Silent T1 would be a suitable option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your typing needs, so experimenting with different switches is always recommended to find the perfect fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you should consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and require a tactile switch, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique feel and sound, the Outemu Tom may be the better choice. Ultimately, choose the switch that best fits your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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