Gateron Quinn vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn 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 that stand out are the Gateron Quinn and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both of which are tactile switches. The Quinn switches are renowned for their unique combination of a crisp and light switch-like tactility, along with a deep and resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. With every keystroke, users are treated to a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are perfect for those who desire a tactile switch with a silenced operation, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. These switches offer a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While these general pointers provide an overview of each switch's defining features, it is essential to delve deeper to determine which switch best suits your preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
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 double-stage gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Quinn and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Visually, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Silent T1 is advantageous for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. However, both the nylon top housing of the Quinn and the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 contribute to a more resonant sound when the key is released.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Quinn and the Silent T1 employ nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is favored in switch housing due to its softness, which allows for enhanced sound absorption and a resulting duller and rounder sound profile. Consequently, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when typing. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. The differences between the switches lie primarily in their top housings, as the nylon bottom housing remains consistent across both.
While the Gateron Quinn and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vary in their top housing materials, they showcase similar characteristics due to their utilization of nylon in the bottom housing. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Furthermore, when pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Consequently, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing experience and sound when utilizing either the Quinn or the Silent T1 switches. However, if sound sharpness and clarity are particularly important, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 may provide a more desirable outcome.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch can be compared and contrasted in terms of their weight. The Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, also considered medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Quinn as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it a suitable choice for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, others may prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these users, options with heavier forces like the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be more suitable.
In terms of their specific forces, the Quinn has a known actuation force of 59 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is not disclosed. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, meaning that in terms of how the keys feel when fully pressed, they will yield similar results.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) remains unknown, it can be compared to the Quinn based on their shared bottom out force. The Quinn is lighter in terms of actuation force, but both switches provide a similar medium-heavy feel when fully pressed. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most common, while 3.0 mm is considered the shallowest option. However, recently, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Quinn would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth in their key presses. In this case, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent T1 would be more suitable. Both switches provide different tactile experiences, so the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Quinn switches are highly regarded for their unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. These switches offer a bassy and resonant sound with a clean and sharp profile. Users can expect a rich and immersive audio feedback that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are designed to provide a more muted typing experience. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile, the Quinn switches would be the way to go, but if you value a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 switches are a great choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Quinn switches offer a range of desirable qualities. They are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These switches are super responsive and provide a lively feel with their spring-like feedback. They have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The typing experience with Quinn switches is seamless, effortless, and uniform, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are described as stepped, accented, and polished. These switches have a mild tactile feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. They also provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The smooth and refined finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a more lively and buttery typing experience, the Quinn switches would be a great choice, while the Silent T1 switches offer a mild and accented tactile feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Quinn and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Quinn switches provide a deep and resonant sound profile with a crisp and clean audio feedback, while the Silent T1 switches offer a quieter and more muted typing experience. In terms of feel, the Quinn switches are snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switches are stepped, accented, and polished, offering a mild and tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. With the specially designed nylon housings, the Quinn offers a typing experience that is precise, clean, and crisp. The bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profiles further enhance the immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you are in need of a switch that offers both tactility and silence, particularly in noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the better choice. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted sound, the Silent T1 provides a quieter typing experience. Additionally, with its stepped, accented, and polished feel, this switch offers a mild tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Quinn and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) hinges on your preferences for sound, feel, and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
Mentioned in this article
