Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jerrzi Violet. The Silent T1 is praised for its combination of tactile feedback and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who work in noise-sensitive environments. Its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel provide a satisfying typing experience without too much auditory distraction. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is known for its smooth actuation and gentle tactility, offering a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your personal typing style and preferences. 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Violet differ in their bottom housings. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Violet also has a nylon bottom housing, further enhancing the typing experience by creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Violet share the same polycarbonate top housing material, their nylon bottom housings provide a point of contrast between the two switches. The difference in sound profiles generated by the nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to the overall typing experience. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Violet provides a more rounded sound due to the sound absorption capabilities of nylon. However, both switches benefit from the enhanced sound characteristics of their respective bottom housings, which influence the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel during typing.
In conclusion, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jerrzi Violet showcase the impact of housing materials on sound quality in mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of each switch results in distinct sound profiles. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, while the Violet offers a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials creates a unique typing experience for users of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to users. The Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel, whereas the Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams, offering a lighter touch. The actuation force for the Silent T1 is unknown, while the Violet's bottom out force is also unspecified. In terms of user preference, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may favor the Violet, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent T1. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's typing preferences and usage habits.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Violet's 3.7 mm. The Silent T1 offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Violet's slightly shorter travel distance may provide a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers or those seeking a quicker typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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) tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, making it a great option for those looking for a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, which provides a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Violet switches are described as having a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile experience with some pre-travel and post-travel sensation. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) is also noted for its accented tactility, offering a medium amount of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polished finish for a smoother typing experience. The feel of the Violet switch is not explicitly described, but based on the information provided, you can expect a similar stepped tactile feel to the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Jerrzi Violet tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) is best suited for those seeking a tactile and silenced typing experience with its muted sound profile and medium bump, while the Violet switch provides a gentle tactile feel with smooth actuation and a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switches, consider your priorities. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force and want a switch that provides a tactile bump while minimizing noise, then the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation with a pleasing poppy tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, noise level, and actuation force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and environment.