SP-Star RedBlue vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The world of mechanical keyboard switches offers a wide array of options for enthusiasts and professionals alike, but two switches that stand out from the pack are the SP-Star RedBlue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing experience and is best suited for those who prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke. Its higher-pitched sound profile gives it a unique auditory experience, making it perfect for users who appreciate a distinct sound while typing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is a tactile switch designed for those who desire both a satisfying tactile bump and a silenced typing experience. This switch is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, providing a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel for a comfortable keystroke. Its subdued audio feedback ensures that you won't disrupt those around you while typing. These qualities make the Silent T1 perfect for users who crave a tactile switch that is both satisfying and discreet. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
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 SP-Star RedBlue and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice contributes to a similar sound profile in both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting effects to be showcased effectively. Therefore, if you prioritize a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting purposes, both the RedBlue and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will deliver similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the RedBlue differs from the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material, giving a notable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a different typing experience, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to polycarbonate. This disparity in bottom housing material brings a noticeable contrast in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In summary, both the RedBlue and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) share the advantages of a polycarbonate top housing, delivering a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the RedBlue accentuates the impact and crispness of the bottom-out sound, while the nylon bottom housing in the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials contribute to distinct typing experiences when using these switches, offering users the opportunity to choose based on their preferred sound and feel.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different experiences. The actuation force for both switches is unknown, meaning we cannot compare them directly. However, in terms of bottom out force, the RedBlue requires a lighter touch with 57 grams, whereas the Silent T1 (Shrimp) exerts a heavier pressure of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the RedBlue switch would be a suitable choice, as it allows for extended typing periods without excessive fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively, whether for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. This heavier push feel can be preferred by individuals seeking a more tactile feedback and a sense of stability while typing.
While we can't directly compare the actuation forces of these switches, it's important to consider that the actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke. Since the actuation force is not provided, it's possible that both switches may have a similar force needed to initiate keystrokes. Therefore, it is likely that users will achieve similar results in terms of actuation force, regardless of their choice between the RedBlue and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal typing preferences, whether one prefers a lighter touch or a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star RedBlue linear 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 with either of these switches, you will feel a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a relatively higher-pitched tone. This means that the sound produced by these switches will have a more mellow and bass-heavy quality compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as muted. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the RedBlue linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable for most users as its qualities fall in a safe middle-ground zone. The polished finish of the switch adds to the smooth and refined typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is also described as polished. This indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish, allowing for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is also accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. However, it is worth noting that the Silent T1 switch is also stepped, meaning that it has two stages of tactility, giving you some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation during the keystroke.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The RedBlue switch provides a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch is ideal for those who want a tactile and silenced switch, offering a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted sound. While they have their own unique characteristics, they both provide a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying typing experience, tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are best suited for those who want a more mild and polished feel, offering a safe middle-ground zone of comfort and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile and silenced switch that is perfect for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, these switches provide a muted sound experience. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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