Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the TTC Venus presents a compelling dichotomy. The Silent T1 is a tactile switch that offers a balanced combination of feedback and noise reduction, making it perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Venus is a linear switch with a unique internal configuration that provides a smooth, frictionless typing experience paired with a delightful "Q-texture" resistance. While the Silent T1 appeals to those seeking a tactile feel with subdued audio feedback, the Venus caters to individuals looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with low-pitched, muted sound. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the TTC Venus offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Venus's POM top housing, which is deeper and more muted. While the top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) enhances the sound profile with its translucency for RGB lighting, the Venus's POM top housing provides a unique and pleasing sound experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound for a rounder tone, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus provides a sharper and clearer sound profile.
Despite their differences, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the TTC Venus offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The contrast between the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the POM top housing of the Venus showcases the range of sound profiles that can be achieved with different materials. Similarly, the variation in bottom housing materials, with nylon for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and polycarbonate for the Venus, demonstrate how different plastics can impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to various typing preferences.
In conclusion, the choice between the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the TTC Venus ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique blend of sound profiles and aesthetics with each switch. Whether you prefer the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, more muted tones of POM, both switches offer a premium typing experience. As a result, while there are differences in housing materials between the two switches, users can expect similarly high-quality results in terms of overall sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, one can see clear differences in weight. The Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option, while the Venus is lighter with a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is medium-light. The actuation force of the Silent T1 is unknown, while the Venus has an actuation force of 45 grams. Those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Silent T1 due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Venus may be favored by those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.8mm travel distance of the TTC Venus linear switch. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Silent T1 provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Venus. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Venus, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the TTC Venus offers a low-pitched and subdued sound signature that wraps each keystroke in a gentle auditory embrace. Both switches offer a more subtle and muted sound compared to other mechanical switches, providing a pleasant typing experience without disturbing others. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a quieter typing experience, with the Venus offering a slightly deeper and mellower tone compared to the Silent T1.
When it comes to feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is recognized for its stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a medium bump with a padded bottom-out sensation for a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus boasts a buttery and frictionless feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with every keypress. Both switches deliver a smooth and polished typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a comfortable typing session. While the Silent T1 focuses on a medium tactile experience, the Venus emphasizes a buttery and gummy feel that is notably smooth and pleasant to the touch.
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and TTC Venus switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Silent T1 provides a muted sound profile with a balanced tactile feel, making it suitable for noise-sensitive users looking for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus delivers a low-pitched sound with a buttery and frictionless feel, appealing to those who prefer a smoother and effortless typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing a unique typing experience, giving users the option to choose based on their preference for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Silent T1 or the Venus, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the specific attributes that each switch brings to the table. If you prioritize a balance of tactility and silence, the Silent T1 is the way to go. This switch offers a medium bump and reduced noise level, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience with a light actuation force, the Venus switch is the better choice. Its unique "Q-texture" and muted sound signature provide a delightful typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a tactile switch with a quieter sound like the Silent T1 or a linear switch with a smooth feel like the Venus. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
