Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, the choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers distinct advantages tailored to different preferences. The Silent T1 stands out as an excellent option for users in noise-sensitive environments, providing a tactile feel without the disruptive sounds commonly associated with traditional switches. Its medium bump and padded bottom-out enhance comfort while minimizing auditory disturbance. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) embraces a linear design that delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize fluidity and speed in their keystrokes. Its resonant sound may also add a satisfying acoustic dimension for users who enjoy auditory feedback in their typing. These characteristics make each switch appealing depending on your priorities: the Silent T1 for stealth and tactility, and the Tomcat for seamless and rapid input. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share some striking similarities, particularly in their choice of housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, promoting resonance and clarity in sound output. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches, especially when it comes to RGB lighting effects—enabling vibrant illumination through the switch tops. Users looking for a clear and aesthetically pleasing lighting experience can expect similar results when using either of these switches.
In contrast to the top housings, the bottom housings of the Silent T1 and Tomcat utilize nylon, a classic material prized for its unique sound characteristics. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by polycarbonate. This dichotomy between the materials means that while both switches produce a bright sound when pressed, the feel and sound produced during a bottom-out are influenced by the nylon bottom housing. As such, when typing or gaming, users will notice the richer, rounder sound as they reach the bottom of their keystrokes, creating an engaging auditory experience in line with both switches’ design intentions.
Ultimately, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing in both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) results in a harmonious balance of sound characteristics. While both share similar top housing materials that enhance brightness and clarity, the distinct nylon bottom contributes to an overall richer typing experience. This strategic combination ensures that users can enjoy both the aesthetics of RGB lighting and the nuanced sound profiles produced by the synthesis of these two materials, regardless of which switch they select. Thus, while the switches may bear different names, their thoughtful design leads to mutually compatible and satisfying auditory outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent T1 does not have a specified actuation force, while the Tomcat features a 55-gram actuation force, indicating that the Silent T1 might be perceived as more forgiving in terms of keystroke initiation. In terms of bottom out force, the Silent T1 reaches 67 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Tomcat's 64 grams. This makes the Silent T1 ultimately heavier overall due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Bsun Tomcat might be the more suitable choice, whereas typists looking for a more substantial feel may find the Silent T1 preferable. Overall, the Tomcat is the lighter option when considering actuation force, while the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the Silent T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat measures 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent T1 offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback, which some users might find more satisfying for typing. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Tomcat may appeal to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, favoring efficiency over depth. Ultimately, if you desire a more responsive feel for fast-paced actions, the Tomcat's 3.6 mm travel may be more suitable; however, for those who appreciate the deeper engagement of a 4 mm stroke, the Silent T1 would be the preferable choice.
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch delivers a notably muted auditory experience, making it an excellent choice for environments that require discretion. With softer and quieter output, the Silent T1 minimizes the traditional clack typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, while specific sound characteristics for the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) are not detailed, it's typically recognized that linear switches, such as the Tomcat, tend to have a smoother sound profile. As a result, users can expect a more resonant sound from the Tomcat due to its design, which contrasts against the subdued nature of the Silent T1.
In terms of feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a stepped tactile experience. Its medium bump provides a sense of feedback without overwhelming the user, marked by a cushioned bottom-out feel that makes typing comfortable yet noticeable. This creates a pleasing balance for those who enjoy tactile feedback while avoiding harshness. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), featuring Ly stems, is engineered to provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience. While the exact tactile feedback is unspecified, linear switches generally offer a more consistent keypress without the noticeable bump found in tactile switches, appealing to those who prefer unimpeded keystrokes.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a keyboard experience that prioritizes sound dampening and a balanced tactile feel, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a prime option. Meanwhile, for those who favor a smooth and uninterrupted pressing experience, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes highly recommended. Each switch caters to a different typing preference; thus, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback with reduced noise or a sleek, linear actuation with a resonant audio profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch will largely depend on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you're in a noise-sensitive setting or simply prefer a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 is the ideal choice. Its muted sound profile, combined with a tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming, makes it well-suited for those who enjoy a tactile feel while keeping noise to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) will likely be more appealing. The linear action of the Tomcat, paired with its resonant sound, allows for rapid typing without tactile interruption, making it a great choice for gamers or those who type fast and prefer a consistent feel without bumps. Ultimately, consider your typing style, noise preferences, and the overall typing experience you desire when choosing between these two switches.
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