Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gazzew U4T. The Silent T1 is perfect for those who desire both a tactile switch and a silenced typing experience, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. This switch offers a medium bump for a satisfying typing feel and a padded bottom-out for added comfort. Additionally, the audio feedback is subtle and subdued, minimizing distractions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts showcase a unique blend of thockiness and sharp tactility. With a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities and appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gazzew U4T differ in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate material allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a crisp typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the RGB lighting effect if utilized.
In contrast, the Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This specific plastic blend contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. The U4T's top housing produces a more mellow and full-bodied sound, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper typing experience with a touch of elegance.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer nature. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 complements the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing, providing a balanced overall sound output.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also referred to as "boba plastic." Similar to its top housing, the U4T's bottom housing contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. The soft plastic blend of the U4T's bottom housing promotes a full and resonant sound, harmonizing with the top housing for an immersive typing experience.
Although the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gazzew U4T use different materials for both their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique and distinct sound profiles. The Silent T1 excels at providing a sharp and clear typing sound with the polycarbonate top housing, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to it. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T achieves a rich and deep sound with both the top and bottom housings made from a soft Gazzew blend plastic. In summary, users can expect pleasing auditory experiences from both switches, each offering their own distinct characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. However, the information provided states that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this regard. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Silent T1 has a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboard extensively for work or extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. For these individuals, a switch with a heavier force would be more suitable.
Since the actuation force of both switches is unknown, it is difficult to determine if they would result in similar typing experiences in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, despite this lack of information, it is important to note the difference in the bottom out forces. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Gazzew U4T. Therefore, if an individual prioritizes a heavier typing feel, they may lean towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch. However, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gazzew U4T to be more suitable.
Overall, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences. Factors such as weight, actuation force, and bottom out force should be considered to ensure the best typing experience according to one's personal preferences and needs.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gazzew U4T tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key fitted with either of these switches, users can expect a similar tactile feel and experience. The travel distance of 4 mm ensures that key presses have a substantial depth, providing a satisfying feedback while typing. Whether it is the Silent T1 (Shrimp) or the U4T, users can enjoy a comfortable typing experience with a consistent 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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 is known for its muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. The Silent T1 minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a great choice for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile. It produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The U4T switch also provides a satisfying and deep "thock" or "knock" sound when pressed and released. Both switches offer different sound experiences, so the choice depends on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, including the board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a stepped and accented tactile experience. The stepped feel refers to the switch having two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This makes the switch feel more mild compared to hypertactile switches. The accented tactile experience of the Silent T1 offers a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished finish reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a sharp tactile feel. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The U4T switch offers a high feedback intensity, providing a satisfying tactile experience. Again, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired level of tactility.
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch excels in providing a muted sound profile, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a stepped, accented tactile feel with a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch provides a bassy 'thock' sound profile, paired with a sharp tactile feedback for auditory and tactile satisfaction. Although both switches offer different subjective qualities, they can provide similar results in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and the desired sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a switch that combines tactile feedback with a silent operation, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel and a padded bottom-out experience. This switch is perfect for noise-sensitive environments and provides a medium bump with subdued audio feedback. In terms of sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) produces a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you prioritize a satisfying and bassy thock sound, as well as an assertive tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T is the switch for you. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium feel and a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Although it does not offer a silent operation, it provides auditory and tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for a silenced and tactile experience (Silent T1) or a thocky and sharp tactile feedback (U4T).
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