Kailh Plum vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Plum stands out for its unique characteristics - while it has a satisfying weightiness, it doesn't feature a significant tactile bump like many other tactile switches. Additionally, its sound profile is neutral and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a combination of tactility and silence, making it perfect for those who desire a quieter typing experience. It provides a medium bump, a cushioned bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. If you're looking for a switch that is weighty and unique in its tactile response, the Plum may be the right choice for you. However, if you value a tactile, silenced switch for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the ideal option. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 used in the Kailh Plum and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, both switches' polycarbonate top housings allow for RGB lighting to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
However, the differences between the two switches can be found in their nylon bottom housings. The Plum switch uses nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to the Plum switch. So, despite having different names, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer comparable sound characteristics.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials is divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of the switch, whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing, primarily made of polycarbonate in both switches, influences the sound produced when releasing a key. These different impacts on sound and feel create distinct typing experiences, allowing individuals to choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is important to note that the exact values for their actuation forces are unavailable. However, the Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, whereas the Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling under the medium-heavy category. While the actuation forces are unknown, it can be assumed that they are likely to be in a similar range, providing a comparable typing experience.
Now, when considering weight, it becomes evident that the Plum switch is slightly heavier due to its bottom out force being 3 grams higher than that of the Silent T1. However, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, allowing for a more substantial typing experience. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it enables longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who seek a stronger tactile feedback when pressing the keys may lean towards options with heavier forces, such as the Plum and Silent T1 switches.
In conclusion, while the exact actuation forces of the Kailh Plum and Durock Silent T1 switches are unknown, their bottom out forces indicate they fall within the medium-heavy range. The Plum switch is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both options provide a comparable typing experience, catering to individuals who desire a more substantial tactile response during their typing sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we observe a slight difference. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the acceptable range, as 4.0 mm is considered the most common travel distance. However, the Plum offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a slightly longer travel distance, offering a more substantial and deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with shorter travel distances prioritizing speed and longer travel distances catering to those who prefer a more substantial key press.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
The Kailh Plum tactile switch is known for its unique combination of weightiness and a moderate tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum does not have an exaggerated tactile bump, but still provides a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, the Plum is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, on the other hand, is designed for those who want both a tactile switch and reduced noise. It offers a medium tactile bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. The Silent T1 is described as having a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
In terms of feel, the Plum switch is categorized as mild and stepped. A mild switch offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Plum's qualities are approachable and stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the stepped feature of the Plum switch means that it has two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is also described as stepped, with a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Silent T1 is also categorized as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Furthermore, the Silent T1 switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Plum and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinctive qualities for different preferences. The Plum's unique combination of weightiness and a moderate tactile bump, along with its neutral sound profile, makes it a suitable choice for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is perfect for those who prioritize reduced noise and want both a tactile switch and a padded bottom-out feel. It offers a muted sound profile, medium bump, and polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. While the two switches have their own characteristics, both provide enjoyable typing experiences. Depending on individual preferences, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a unique tactile switch that offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches have a hefty feel without a strong tactile bump, making them stand out among other tactile switches. The Plum switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any environment.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a tactile and silenced switch, especially for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the perfect choice. With a slightly lighter bottom out force compared to the Plum, these switches offer a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. The Silent T1 switches provide subdued audio feedback, thanks to their muted sound profile, minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as having a stepped tactile feel, meaning they have two stages of feedback during the keystroke. The Plum switches offer a mild typing experience, with qualities that fall in a safe and approachable middle ground. The Silent T1 switches, on the other hand, provide an accented tactile feel, striking a balance between a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, both switches can offer a polished finish, resulting in a smoother typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the desired weightiness, level of tactility, sound profile, and environment in which you will be using the keyboard. With these guidelines, you can confidently select the switch that best suits your typing style and requirements.
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