SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer a tactile typing experience. The Polaris Purple is best known for its big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating feeling when typing. It has a snappy sound profile, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for individuals who desire both a tactile switch and a quiet typing experience. It offers a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While these general characteristics offer a glimpse into each switch's unique features, let's delve a bit deeper into their specific qualities to help you decide which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is mainly because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the translucency necessary for RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who plan to incorporate lighting effects into their keyboards. Therefore, when it comes to the top housing, both switches offer similar results.
However, while the top housings may be the same, the bottom housings differ between these two switches. The Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides similar benefits to what it brings to the top housing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a nylon bottom housing. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will elicit a duller and rounder sound compared to the Polaris Purple. So, in terms of the bottom housing, these switches offer distinct experiences.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housing. Pressing down on either switch will allow you to experience the qualities of the bottom housing, which has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. This means that although the top housings of the Polaris Purple and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer similar sound profiles, the difference in bottom housing materials will result in distinct bottom-out experiences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.
Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between switches. Some prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for longer durations without fatigue, making it ideal for office environments or lengthy gaming sessions. These individuals might find the lighter actuation force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) beneficial.
On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. These users might opt for switches with heavier actuation forces to provide a satisfying tactile response. In this case, neither the Polaris Purple nor the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be suitable as their actuation forces are unknown.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches have an equal weight of 67 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully depressed. If bottom out force is the primary consideration, both switches would yield similar results.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch depends on individual preferences regarding actuation force. While the bottom out force remains the same, the unknown actuation force of both switches makes it challenging to determine which one is lighter or heavier in that aspect.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same 4 mm distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Polaris Purple or the Silent T1, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance experienced when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using these switches at home or work. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as producing a muted sound. This means that it is quieter and softer compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Polaris Purple provides a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe and approachable middle-ground zone, suitable for most users. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to either the materials used in its construction or factory lubrication, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a stepped tactile feel. This means that it provides a two-stage sensation, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, unlike hypertactile switches that have one big bump throughout the keystroke. This stepped feel is considered to be mild in comparison, providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Silent T1 has an accented tactile feedback, meaning it offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Like the Polaris Purple, it also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Polaris Purple and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Purple provides a snappy sound profile along with a mild and polished typing experience. It is suitable for most users and offers a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a quieter and softer sound for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a stepped tactile feel with a medium amount of tactility, providing a comfortable typing experience. Both switches are polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you choose the Polaris Purple or the Silent T1, you can expect excellent tactile feedback and an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple would be a great choice. This switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. It is described as having a mild feel, with a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Polaris Purple also produces a neutral sound, making it suitable for various settings, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience and a switch suitable for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. This switch also has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, but it offers a padded bottom-out feel and subdued audio feedback. It is described as having a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal for those who want both tactile feedback and minimized noise, thanks to its muted sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on your preference for tactile feedback and noise levels. If you value a big tactile bump and a snappy sound, the Polaris Purple is a great option. However, if you prioritize a silent typing experience without compromising tactile feedback, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the better choice. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best suits your needs and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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