Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact both typing experience and sound profile. The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that strikes a balance between providing feedback and minimizing noise, making it an excellent option for environments where discretion is key. Known for its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch delivers a subtle yet satisfying tactile experience with muted audio feedback, perfect for those who desire the tactile sensation without the distraction of loud keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX SU is a linear switch that prioritizes a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a deeper sound profile. Its full PA12 housing and T5 stem ensure a satisfying keystroke without tactile bump, appealing to users who enjoy a fluid typing experience or need a switch that's quieter than traditional clicky options. Choosing between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference—whether you lean towards a tactile feel with subdued sound or a seamless linear action. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX SU, one of the most notable differences lies in the material composition of their top housings. The Silent T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiff and resilient properties. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental contrast in housing materials leads to different auditory experiences: the Silent T1 offers clarity and brightness suited for RGB lighting, while the HMX SU provides a warm and rounded sound, favored by those who appreciate a more muted acoustic signature.
Interestingly, both the Silent T1 and the HMX SU share the same material, nylon, for their bottom housings. This commonality results in a similar bottom-out sound and feel when the switches are activated, as nylon inherently dampens vibrations and produces a softer acoustic response. The shared use of nylon for the bottom housings ensures that regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the tactile experience upon bottoming out remains consistent across both switches. This means that users can expect a similar level of warmth and fullness in sound when the keys are fully pressed down, effectively unifying their auditory experience.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX SU shape their respective sound profiles, while the identical nylon bottom housing creates a harmonious underlying response when pressed. For users seeking a distinct auditory experience, those who favor the bright and clear characteristics of polycarbonate may gravitate towards the Silent T1, while those preferring a mellower sound may favor the HMX SU's nylon top. However, either way, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent acoustic foundation, providing a satisfying bottoming-out sensation regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent T1 lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX SU switch has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of just 50 grams. This makes the HMX SU significantly lighter overall, appealing to those who prefer easy key presses for extended typing sessions or gaming. If a user favors a more substantial typing experience, the heavier Silent T1 may be more suitable due to its higher bottom out force. Thus, for individuals prioritizing lightness and reduced fatigue, the HMX SU is the better choice, while those seeking a firmer feel might lean towards the Silent T1.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a clear difference. The Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the HMX SU linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that the Silent T1 may provide a more substantial pressing experience, which some users prefer for its hearty depth, while the SU switch could be more appealing to those seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the feel and feedback desired when pressing keys.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 sound profile of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is notably muted, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. It provides a softer and quieter auditory experience, contrasting with the sharper tones typically associated with mechanical switches. This design minimizes sound output, which can be particularly appealing for users who wish to type without disturbing others nearby. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch's sound characteristics remain largely unmentioned, so it's challenging to provide a comparative analysis. However, the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) excels with its stepped and accented tactile profile. The medium bump offers a noticeable but not overwhelming tactile feedback, creating a satisfying typing experience that balances sensitivity and responsiveness. Users can expect a polished finish, which contributes to a smooth key travel, reducing friction and enhancing overall comfort during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the feel attributes of the HMX SU linear switch are not specified, thus leaving a gap in understanding its tactile experience. Nonetheless, if both switches provide a refined typing feel, users may find themselves with a similarly enjoyable typing experience regardless of their choice.
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch stands out for its muted sound and well-defined tactile feedback, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing noise reduction and comfort. The HMX SU’s sound and feel qualities are less defined, which leaves potential users without a clear comparison. That said, if you are seeking a balance between sound and tactility, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is undoubtedly a strong contender, while the SU may still offer a satisfactory alternative, pending further information about its performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a tactile feedback experience and work in a noise-sensitive setting, the Silent T1 is the clear winner; its medium-heavy actuation force and muted sound profile provide the tactile satisfaction that many typists crave while ensuring minimal disruption to those around you. This switch's stepped and accented feel offers a delightful typing experience without being overly tactile, making it suitable for both casual typing and more focused writing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a smooth, linear action, the HMX SU switch might be more to your liking. With its gentler 50-gram actuation force, the SU allows for quicker keystrokes and is ideal for fast typists or gamers who need speed and fluidity without the distraction of tactile bumps. Ultimately, consider your need for tactile feedback versus a smooth linear experience, as well as the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing style and comfort.
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