Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor 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 Haimu Viola Tricolor, both of which fall into the tactile switch category. The Silent T1 is perfect for those who desire a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. With its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience while keeping the noise levels low. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. Offering a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, these switches strike a perfect balance between feedback and user comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Viola Tricolor.
However, there is a notable difference in the bottom housing material. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Viola Tricolor also features a nylon bottom housing. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use nylon. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different sound experience and feel when bottoming out the keys between the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Viola Tricolor.
It is important to note that the impact of each housing material is dependent on the specific action being performed. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in the resulting sound profile. Thus, while the housing materials of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Viola Tricolor possess similar characteristics, the division of these materials between the top and bottom housings may create slight variations in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the specific gram measurement for both switches is unavailable. However, it can be assumed that they have a similar actuation force since no significant distinction is mentioned. Moving on to the bottom out force, we see that the Silent T1 requires 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Viola Tricolor requires 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Therefore, in terms of weight, both switches offer a relatively similar typing experience. However, it is worth noting that some individuals prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions, while others prefer the heavier force for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both distances are relatively close, so the results would be quite similar in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. However, if you are a gamer looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Viola Tricolor may be more appealing. It provides a more responsive feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key, the Durock Silent T1 with its longer travel distance may be your preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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
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 or clacky switches. The aim is to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. It provides a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This adds a touch of character to the typing experience without being too overwhelming in terms of sound. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, so it may vary depending on your setup.
In terms of feel, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Viola Tricolor switches are described as "accented." This means that they provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. They fall into the category of "medium tactile" switches, offering a satisfying feedback during keystrokes. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is also described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This gives it a mild tactile experience compared to more pronounced hypertactile switches. The Viola Tricolor switch, on the other hand, is described as invigorating. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. These qualities create an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) is best suited for those who value a tactile switch with a muted sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to typing. It offers a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile and strikes a balance between sharp sensation and user comfort. Both switches provide accentuated tactility, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. While they differ in sound and some aspects of feel, if you are looking for a medium tactile switch with prominent tactility, you can achieve similar results with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile and silenced switch that is perfect for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience without the clackiness often associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to your typing, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is the better choice. It strikes a perfect balance between pronounced tactility and not being overly tactile, providing a sharp sensation without overwhelming you. Additionally, the Viola Tricolor offers a deeper and richer bassy sound profile, adding a touch of depth and richness to your typing experience. Both switches have accented tactile feedback, ensuring an engaging and enjoyable typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a silent and subtly tactile experience (Silent T1) or a more lively and characterful typing experience (Viola Tricolor).
Mentioned in this article
