KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are both mechanical keyboard switches that offer a tactile typing experience. The Phalaenopsis is known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, which makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue. With a satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke on the Phalaenopsis becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is perfect for those who desire both a tactile switch and a silenced typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It provides a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience while keeping noise levels to a minimum. Although these general pointers highlight the key features of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Phalaenopsis and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their respective top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the two switches differ. The Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which again contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate in the bottom housing also complements the RGB lighting, providing a cohesive aesthetic. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
In summary, both the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances their compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their bottom housing materials differ, with the Phalaenopsis featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) using a nylon bottom housing. These different materials result in variations in sound, with the polycarbonate providing a sharper sound and the nylon producing a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of both switches significantly impact the overall sound and feel when keys are pressed and released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Phalaenopsis has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unknown, so it is difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, it is worth noting that the bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis is 50 grams, indicating a slightly heavier pressure required to fully depress the switch. On the other hand, the Silent T1 boasts a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison.
Considering the weight of the switches is a personal preference and depends on the user's typing style and preferences. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This would make the Phalaenopsis a suitable choice for those who value a lighter feel. On the contrary, others prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which requires heavier forces. In this case, the Silent T1 would likely be the preferable option due to its higher bottom out force.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Phalaenopsis is known to be lighter, the actuation force of the Silent T1 is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, with the Phalaenopsis having a lighter bottom out force compared to the Silent T1's medium-heavy bottom out force, it can be inferred that the Silent T1 is generally heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing requirements.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience in terms of the travel distance. Whether you opt for the Phalaenopsis or the Silent T1, you can expect similar results in terms of the switch's travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that when the key is pressed and released, it produces a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as muted. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While the specific sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, these descriptions give a general idea of the sound characteristics of each switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Phalaenopsis and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are described as having a stepped feel. This means that they feel like they have two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Compared to hypertactile switches that have a big bump throughout the whole keystroke, stepped switches offer a milder tactile experience. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is also described as accented, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This indicates that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a tactile experience that is both comfortable and satisfying.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Phalaenopsis and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis switch provides a delightful typing experience with its satisfying tactile bump and bassy, thocky sound profile. It is known to minimize finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, offering a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and a muted sound. With its stepped, accented, and polished characteristics, it provides a comfortable and refined typing experience. If you are looking for a similar sound and feel, opting for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would likely deliver comparable results. However, it's important to note that personal preferences, typing style, and other factors can also influence one's satisfaction with a particular switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, then the KTT Phalaenopsis would be a great choice for you. With its bottom out force of 50 grams and beautiful translucent design, typing will be effortless and finger fatigue will be minimized even during prolonged typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis also offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience. On the other hand, if you are in need of a silenced tactile switch, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, while also producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an accented and polished feel, providing a medium level of tactility and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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