Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Aflion Windy Shadow 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 Aflion Windy Shadow. The Silent T1 is a tactile switch known for its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow by Aflion is a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out experience. While the Silent T1 excels in providing a tactile and silenced typing experience, the Windy Shadow offers a seamless and smooth linear typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, the impact of the material may differ slightly based on the overall design and construction of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Windy Shadow use nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, adding a different tonal quality to the overall typing experience. Despite using the same material for their bottom housings, the specific design and manufacturing processes of each switch may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel when typing.
Overall, the combination of materials used in the housings of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Windy Shadow results in unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While polycarbonate top housings create a sharp and clear sound, nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and rounder sound. The placement of these materials within the switches also plays a role in the overall typing feel, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite utilizing similar materials, the specific design choices made by each manufacturer ultimately make for distinct typing experiences between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Silent T1 is heavier in terms of bottom out force at 67 grams, while the Windy Shadow is lighter at 55 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but the Silent T1 is likely to have a higher actuation force since it has a heavier bottom out force. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches, as a lighter weight may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier weight may provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Windy Shadow, while those seeking a heavier feel may opt for the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Windy Shadow offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Silent T1's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional and deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a choice for those seeking a quicker response time and a shallower key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the Silent T1 offering a longer travel distance and the Windy Shadow providing a shorter, more rapid key press.
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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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) offers a muted experience, providing a softer and less clacky sound compared to standard switches. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience, especially in noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is not too loud or distracting. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Silent T1 being more subdued and the Windy Shadow offering a unique bounce from its extended spring.
In terms of feel, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as stepped and accented, providing a medium tactile feel with two stages of feedback that is not too overwhelming or subtle. The switch also offers a polished finish for a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience, with gentle characteristics that cater to a wide range of users. Both switches provide a comfortable and approachable feel, with the Silent T1 offering a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the smoother and gentler feel of the Windy Shadow.
Overall, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Silent T1 provides a more tactile and muted typing experience, the Windy Shadow offers a neutral and gentle feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a tactile and silenced switch for a noise-sensitive environment, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a lower bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is the better choice. Remember, when choosing between these switches, consider factors such as sound, feel, and your specific typing preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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