Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different preferences. The Silent T1 is perfect for those looking for a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments with its medium bump and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches provide a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, appealing to those seeking a balanced typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to specific needs. 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, they may still offer unique sound characteristics based on other factors such as the stem or spring.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Violet Gold Pro utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite both switches sharing this material for their bottom housings, other factors such as the keycaps or typing style can still influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro respectively offer a balanced sound profile for both switches. While the top housing affects the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Overall, the choice of housing materials in each switch contributes to their unique sound characteristics and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences in terms of force requirements. The Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel, while the actuation force is not listed. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro requires 45 grams of force to actuate, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Violet Gold Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Silent T1. When considering the weight of the switches, it is important to note that some users prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent T1 being slightly on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the Violet Gold Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Silent T1. 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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) and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer different experiences. The Silent T1 produces a muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches have a neutral sound signature, providing a moderate sound profile that is versatile for various typing settings. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired noise level in your workspace.
Regarding feel, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Violet Gold Pro switches share a stepped tactile design, offering a two-stage tactile experience with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Additionally, the Silent T1 features an accented tactile bump, providing a balanced amount of tactility without being overwhelming, while the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a mild tactility with a light touch. Both switches also have a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will come down to individual typing preferences and desired levels of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent T1 excels in providing a muted sound and a balanced tactile experience with a padded bottom-out feel, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a neutral sound signature and a light tactility, providing a versatile typing experience suitable for a range of users. Overall, both switches deliver high-quality performance, and choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers both tactility and a silenced typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted sound profile, it is perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lighter touch and a balanced typing experience, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro would be a great option. With its medium tactility and neutral sound signature, it provides a pleasant typing experience for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs.
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