Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that cater to different preferences are the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the KTT Strawberry. The Silent T1 is perfect for those who seek a tactile and silenced switch, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, it provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are beloved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, they offer a visually appealing option. While the Silent T1 focuses on providing a tactile experience, the Strawberry switches prioritize a linear, frictionless feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 housing materials of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the KTT Strawberry, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the fact that polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches emphasize the aesthetic advantage of polycarbonate, as its translucency allows for the use of RGB lighting. Therefore, if you plan on incorporating RGB lighting into your setup, both switches would provide similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal.
However, the bottom housing materials differ between the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Strawberry. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As with the top housing, the polycarbonate material's stiffness plays a role in enhancing clarity and resonance.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its nylon bottom housing may provide a deeper and fuller typing experience during keypresses, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Silent T1 has an unavailable actuation force, while the Strawberry requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Silent T1 weighs in at 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Strawberry requires 62 grams, which is categorized as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Strawberry may be the preferable option, as its actuation force is lighter. This allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Silent T1. With its heavier bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
Despite their differences in actuation and bottom out forces, it is important to note that both switches offer similar results in terms of force requirements. Both fall within the medium weight range, allowing for a balanced and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results and do not have any noticeable differences.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a muted experience. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Strawberry, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound. This type of switch typically produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by your choice of board and keycaps. However, both switches aim to minimize noise and provide a more pleasant auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as a stepped, accented, and polished switch. Stepped switches offer a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Accented switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. This means that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The switch enhances overall smoothness, allowing for seamless and uniform keystrokes.
Overall, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the KTT Strawberry switches provide subjective qualities desired by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Silent T1 delivers a medium bump tactile experience with a padded bottom-out feel and subdued audio feedback. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a tactile and silenced switch in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry offers smooth actuation, a comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the sound and feel of the two switches differ, if you are looking for a softer and quieter typing experience with some tactile feedback, the Silent T1 would be a suitable option. If you prefer a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, and buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Strawberry would be a great choice. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience to suit different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile and silenced switch, ideal for noise-sensitive environments, then the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the perfect choice for you. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which provides a medium-heavy typing experience. In terms of sound, it is described as muted, producing softer and quieter sounds compared to regular switches.
On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth actuation, comfort, and reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. These switches have an attractive pink and clear housing, and they offer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. The Strawberry switches are known for their low-pitched sound, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as stepped, accented, and polished. It provides a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches are described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. They offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a fluid key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the KTT Strawberry linear switch depends on your specific preferences. If you value a tactile and silenced switch, with a medium-heavy typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the better option. However, if you prioritize smooth actuation and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be more suitable for you. Consider these factors and select the switch that aligns with your typing preferences for the best keyboard experience.
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