HMX Perky vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) present two distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The HMX Perky, a linear switch, stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housings that create a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience. Its shorter travel distance promotes a more condensed typing feel, making it ideal for those who prefer smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 is a tactile switch designed for those seeking a more traditional typing sensation, complete with a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. This switch excels in noise-sensitive environments, providing subdued audio feedback, which makes it suitable for office settings or shared spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference—whether one prioritizes the smoothness and speed of a linear switch or the satisfying tactile feedback of a muted tactile switch. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), we observe a notable difference in the top housing material used for each switch. The Perky utilizes nylon for its top housing, which contributes to a sound profile characterized by its deeper and fuller tones. This is largely due to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction highlights the role of material hardness in influencing auditory feedback; while the Perky's nylon top provides a rounded acoustic experience, the Silent T1's polycarbonate top creates a resonant clarity that is often desired in a gaming or typing environment.
Looking at the bottom housing, however, the two switches find common ground. Both the Perky and the Silent T1 use nylon for their bottom housings, which means they share the characteristic of delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This equivalence ensures that the bottom-out feel and sound, which stem from the properties of the bottom housing, are noticeably similar between the two. Despite their contrasting top housings, this shared nylon material in the bottom of each switch offers a level of continuity in acoustics and tactile feedback, fostering a more unified experience when pressing down on either switch.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top and identical bottom housing materials means that each switch will provide unique sonic characteristics and tactile experiences. For the Perky, users will enjoy a softer and more subdued typing experience due to the nylon top, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will offer more pronounced and clear auditory feedback via its polycarbonate top. However, since both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, the overall bottom-out sound and feel will be comparably rich and satisfying. This interplay between the distinct top housing materials and their shared bottom housing creates a nuanced profile for both switches, appealing to various preferences among users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their specifications. The Perky features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent T1 has an actuation force that is unknown but comes with a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This suggests that although the actuation force is unspecified, the bottom out force indicates a firmer push, likely resulting in a more substantial typing experience that some users might prefer. From this comparison, it's clear that the Perky is the lighter option overall, appealing to individuals who enjoy a softer keystroke, while the Silent T1, with its heavier bottom out force, caters to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Perky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Perky the shorter of the two options, catering to those who prefer quicker key presses for enhanced responsiveness, which is often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Silent T1’s longer travel distance of 4 mm provides a more substantial feel, offering a hearty depth that some users find satisfying despite the potential for slightly slower response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a swift and responsive typing experience, the Perky is the better choice, whereas if you favor a more tactile and substantial keystroke, the Silent T1 may be more appealing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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.
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
The HMX Perky linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, designed for a more subdued auditory experience compared to more traditional, clacky mechanical switches. Its softer nylon construction likely contributes to a quieter operation, making it a suitable choice for those who appreciate a less intrusive sound while typing. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is specifically engineered for noise-sensitive environments, offering a muted sound signature that minimizes the typical acoustics of mechanical switches. This distinctively muted character is enhanced by padding at the bottom-out point, making it an excellent option for users who want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere without sacrificing the mechanical feel of their keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch is recognized for its satisfying and condensed typing experience, thanks to its shorter travel distance. This design feature provides a prompt response that many users find appealing, albeit specific tactile qualities may be less defined than those in tactile switches. The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), however, offers a more nuanced tactile experience with its medium bump, delivering a stepped feel that allows users to perceive two distinct stages while pressing the key. The tactile feedback is accentuated without being overwhelming, making it ideal for typists looking for a balanced experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent T1 provides a smooth key travel, further enhancing its overall feel compared to other tactile switches.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch cater to different preferences, both offer unique qualities that can enhance a typing experience. The Perky excels in delivering a subtle soundscape and a satisfying linear feel, while the Silent T1 stands out for its muted sound and distinctive tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes sound and linear responsiveness or values a tactile sensation coupled with noise dampening. Both switches, however, can be tailored to provide gratifying results based on the specific needs of the user.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a lighter feel with a more condensed typing experience, the Perky switch is an excellent option. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams will lend itself well to rapid typing and gaming sessions, providing a neutral yet satisfying tactile feedback thanks to its glittery nylon housings. This makes the Perky switch ideal for users who enjoy a smooth and responsive keystroke without the distraction of added noise. Conversely, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive setting, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a stronger contender. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, this switch offers a pleasant tactile bump along with a silenced operation, making it perfect for quiet environments. Its muted sound and stepped tactile response create a refined typing experience that balances both feel and auditory feedback nicely. Therefore, your decision should be influenced by whether you desire a light, fast switch for an engaging typing experience or a tactile, quieter switch to accommodate a peaceful workspace.
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