Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jwick Taro are both tactile switches, but they offer unique features that set them apart. The Silent T1 is perfect for those who desire both a tactile switch and a silenced typing experience, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, the Silent T1 provides a comfortable and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switches offer a snappy and medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. These switches have a cozy typing experience, complemented by their comfortable and subdued color scheme. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jwick Taro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if RGB lighting is desired on the switch. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Taro utilize nylon as the material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because the relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, providing a satisfying and immersive sound.
When it comes to the particular characteristics each housing material brings to the switch, there is a notable difference between the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Taro. The impact of the bottom housing will be more apparent on the Silent T1 (Shrimp), affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While both switches provide a combination of polycarbonate and nylon, the distribution of these qualities may lead to slight variations in their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. Unfortunately, the specific actuation forces for both switches are unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For this group, they would opt for options with heavier forces, such as the medium-heavy bottom out force provided by both the Silent T1 and Taro.
In terms of actuation force, since the specific values are unavailable for both switches, it is challenging to determine if they are the same or not. However, since both switches share the same bottom out force, it can be inferred that users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience and resistance offered by these switches. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jwick Taro will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Taro has a distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional travel distance range, with 4 mm being the most common, the Taro offers a slightly shallower travel experience. This may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the Silent T1 more suitable due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter and more responsive experience or a longer and more substantial key press.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is best described as "muted". This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards is minimized with the Silent T1, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Taro switch has a "neutral" sound profile. It has a moderate level of sound, suitable for most situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a "stepped" tactile experience. This means that it has a mild and gradual bump, providing a two-stage feel during the keystroke. It allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving a slightly more subdued tactile feedback. Additionally, the switch is described as "accented", which means it offers a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Silent T1 is also considered "polished", resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a sleek feel when using these switches. Conversely, the Taro switch is described as "buttery" in feel. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Silent T1, the Taro switch also has a "stepped" feel, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
Considering all the available information, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Taro switches offer different subjective qualities. The Silent T1 is well-suited for noise-sensitive environments, with its muted sound and cushioned bottom-out feel. It provides a medium bump and subtle audio feedback. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with its medium-level of tactility and acute clacks. It has a neutral sound profile and a buttery, smooth keystroke feel. Both switches have a stepped tactile sensation, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. In terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. However, if you are looking for a quieter and more subdued experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will deliver similar results to the Taro switch in terms of sound. Similarly, if you prefer a smooth and fluid keystroke, both switches offer a buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are in need of a tactile switch that is both silent and provides a subdued typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Additionally, it is described as having a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and acute clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a great option. These switches offer a medium level of tactility and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. Furthermore, the Taro switches are described as having a buttery and smooth keystroke experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Taro depends on whether you prioritize silence and a subdued typing experience or prefer a snappy and buttery feel.
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