KTT Rose vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Rose and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are both mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Rose switch, despite its stunning appearance, goes beyond aesthetics. With the use of progressive springs, it provides a typing experience that is substantial yet not heavy, giving the satisfying feeling of bassy raindrops. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Rose switch offers a unique blend of characteristics. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those seeking a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. This switch offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Categorized as stepped, accented, muted, and polished, it provides a different typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Rose utilizes a nylon material while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes nylon. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches will produce a duller and rounder sound when typing.
It is important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a switch. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the Rose and the Silent T1 (Shrimp), the overall sound experience may still be comparable due to the split qualities of the two housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is important to note that the exact values for the actuation force are unavailable for both switches. However, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force.
Weight is a key consideration when selecting a switch, as it can significantly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the KTT Rose linear switch, as a lighter switch allows for extended periods of comfortable typing. This makes it suitable for scenarios such as using a keyboard at work or indulging in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may find the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch appealing. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a stronger push feel that some users prefer. This can result in a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a bit more resistance.
Although the exact actuation force values are unknown, it is safe to assume that both switches offer similar actuation forces since they possess comparable bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes with both the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide similar results and offer a consistent typing experience.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Rose switches offer a low-pitched tone, which brings a bass-heavy and mellow sound to typing. This creates a pleasant auditory experience that is not overly loud or sharp. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches have a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes them a great choice for noise-sensitive environments, where the reduction of keyboard noise is desired. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the Rose providing a low-pitched tone and the Silent T1 offering a muted sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Rose switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. The progressive springs contribute to a typing experience that feels substantial without being heavy, creating a gentle and approachable feel. Additionally, the polished finish of the Rose switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer a stepped and accented feel. The stepped tactile bump provides a mild tactile feedback, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during keystrokes. The accented tactility brings a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Similar to the Rose switches, the Silent T1 switches also feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Rose switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, while the Silent T1 switches provide a stepped and accented tactile feel.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Rose and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Rose switches provide a low-pitched sound with a mild and polished typing experience, the Silent T1 switches offer a muted sound and a stepped and accented tactile feel. Both switches are suitable for different preferences and purposes. If you are looking for a switch with a bass-heavy and mellow sound, along with a gentle typing experience, the Rose switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you need a quieter switch with a mild tactile feedback and prominent tactility, the Silent T1 switches would be more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a choice between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a medium bump, the Rose switch might be the right choice for you. It offers a mild and polished feel, with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you value both tactile feedback and a silenced switch, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be a suitable option. It provides a padded bottom-out feel, with a stepped, accented, and polished feel. The Silent T1 has a muted sound profile that minimizes noise in noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, consider the typing experience, sound, and feel characteristics that align with your preferences when making a decision between these two switches.
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