Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers both a tactile typing experience and a reduced noise level, you might find yourself torn between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the SP-Star Duck. The Silent T1 is well-known for its capability to provide a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a tactile and silenced switch in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more subtle tactile typing experience, the Duck switches might be the better option for you. These switches offer a gentle tactility when typing, accompanied by a clean and crispy sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for more clear and resonant sound production. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Silent T1 or the Duck.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon material, while the Duck sticks with polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, if sound characteristics are a priority, the Silent T1 may be the better choice with its nylon bottom housing.
Conversely, if you focus more on the feel and sound when releasing a key, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will come into play. The top housing has a significant influence on the sound and feel as you let go of a key. So, whether you choose the Silent T1 or the Duck, the qualities brought by the polycarbonate top housing will be notable when it comes to key release.
In summary, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the SP-Star Duck share the same polycarbonate top housing, providing a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, they differ in terms of their bottom housings. The Silent T1's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing upholds the sharp and clear sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether sound or key release dynamics are of greater importance to the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. First, it should be noted that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so we cannot directly compare them in terms of their initial force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, we see that the Silent T1 has a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Duck switch as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more solid and substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent T1 with its heavier bottom out force. This added resistance can provide a satisfying push while typing, enhancing the typing experience. Although we cannot directly compare the actuation force, it is likely that the results would be similar, as both switches fall within the medium category for bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock Silent T1 or the SP-Star Duck, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for providing a subdued audio feedback, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It is described as having a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This switch also offers a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, providing a stepped and accented tactile experience. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. It is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile, with a neutral sound that falls in the moderate range. The typing experience with these switches is described as gentle and mild, providing a safe and approachable feel for most users. The Duck switch also has a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
Based on the available information, it is clear that both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. They also provide a muted or neutral sound profile suitable for noise-sensitive environments. While the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a stepped and accented tactile feel, the Duck switch offers a milder and buttery typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant and satisfying typing experience depending on the level of tactility desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and want a switch that offers both tactility and noise reduction, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the perfect choice. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, it is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience and a clean, crispy sound profile, the Duck switches are a great option. They provide a gentle tactility and have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most purposes. Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment to make the right decision between these two switches.
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