TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Silent Frozen and the Durock T1. The Silent Frozen stands out for its exceptional quietness, offering users a serene typing experience. Additionally, these linear switches are known for their smoothness and the luxurious, pillow-like feel they provide. On the other hand, the T1 switch is highly regarded for its tactility, making typing on it a delight. With a medium bump sensation, it offers a satisfying feedback to users. Moreover, the sound of the T1 switch resembles raindrops trickling down a windowpane. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities, allowing you to make the best decision when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Silver white spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Silent Frozen and Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Silent Frozen utilizes polycarbonate while the T1 uses nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen will contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This means that the T1 may have a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Silent Frozen will have a clearer and more resonant bottom-out sound.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Silent Frozen and T1 will have an impact on the sound when letting go of a key. The top housing, which is polycarbonate in both switches, will play a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. However, since the Silent Frozen features polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings, it may offer a more consistent and sharper sound profile throughout the entire typing process. Conversely, the T1's sound may vary slightly between bottom-out and key release due to the different housing materials used.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Silent Frozen and Durock T1 utilize polycarbonate top housing for similar sound characteristics and aesthetic purposes, they differ in the bottom housing material. The Silent Frozen's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, while the T1's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, both switches will still provide satisfying typing experiences, with the top housing material exerting more influence on the sound when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Frozen has an actuation force of 39 grams, providing a light and easy trigger for keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force of the T1 switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Frozen is 43 grams, indicating a relatively light and gentle touch when pressing down completely. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the T1 switch is 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, offering a more substantial and firm typing experience.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. The Silent Frozen's lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be suitable for these users. On the contrary, those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier forces, such as the T1 tactile switch with its heavier bottom out force. Despite the unknown actuation force for the T1 switch, it is safe to assume that it is heavier than the 39-gram actuation force of the Silent Frozen based on the difference in their bottom out forces. Overall, individuals can choose a switch based on their preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.5 mm may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the overall feel of the switch.
For those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen switch may be preferred. Gamers, in particular, often opt for switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times during intense gaming sessions. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Silent Frozen switch provides a quick and snappy key press sensation that can enhance gaming performance.
On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial and deliberate key press, the Durock T1 tactile switch with its 4 mm travel distance may be the better choice. The additional 0.5 mm can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity with each key press.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer their own advantages and it is important to consider your typing or gaming style when making a selection.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 TTC Silent Frozen switch is renowned for its extremely quiet sound profile. It is often described as "thocky," producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when the key is pressed and released. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch is low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also considered muted, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is characterized by a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. It is also described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The T1 switch is generally considered neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Silent Frozen switch provides a super smooth and pillowy typing experience. It can be described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This is due to lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. The Silent Frozen switch is also buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience. It can be considered feathery, as it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch has a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel, and its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, the switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. It can be described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Similar to the Silent Frozen switch, the T1 switch is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Frozen switch is characterized by a quiet and thocky sound profile, while the T1 switch has a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. In terms of feel, the Silent Frozen switch offers a super smooth, creamy, buttery, and feathery typing experience, while the T1 switch has a stepped feel with an accented tactile sensation. Both switches share the quality of being polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. By considering these qualities, users can choose the switch that aligns with their preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light bottom out force and an extremely quiet sound profile, along with a super smooth and pillowy type feel, then the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are characterized by their thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Silent Frozen switches offer a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a super comfortable typing experience, characterized by a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, then the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a great option for you. These switches have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments. In terms of feel, the T1 switches offer a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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