Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Silent T1 is perfect for those who desire both a tactile switch and a silenced typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile by Wuque strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. Crafted with precision, these switches feature innovative stem railings with small cutouts, minimizing switch sound while maintaining a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike conventional silent switches that use silicone dampeners, these tactile switches provide an unrivaled blend of tranquility and tactility. Both switches provide a subdued audio feedback, but with their unique characteristics. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your typing preferences best.
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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their housing materials. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Tactile elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic material that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers the advantage of translucency, allowing for a visually appealing switch if RGB lighting is incorporated. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency. Therefore, those looking to enhance their keyboard setup with RGB lighting may prefer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for its polycarbonate top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the WS Silent Tactile utilize nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Whether it's the Silent T1 (Shrimp) or the WS Silent Tactile, the nylon bottom housing ensures that typists can enjoy the benefits of a more resonant and satisfying sound when typing on these switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the WS Silent Tactile differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile experience of the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing are more apparent when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, regardless of the material used, both switches offer a unique auditory and tactile experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is important to note that the specific values for the actuation force are unavailable for both switches. However, the Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the WS Silent Tactile has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling within the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile switch as it could provide an extended typing experience ideal for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who desire a more forceful push and a more substantial typing experience may find the Silent T1 switch more suitable.
Although the actuation force is unknown for both switches, it is reasonable to assume that obtaining similar results could be achieved if the actuation forces are also similar. However, without this specific information, it cannot be definitively stated whether the actuation forces are the same or different.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience, considering the available information on the bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch differ slightly. The Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference may be subtle, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Silent Tactile might be the better choice for you. However, for those who enjoy a deeper typing experience, the Silent T1 with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the subjective qualities of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that both switches prioritize noise reduction while maintaining a satisfactory tactile experience.
In terms of sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is described as producing a muted sound, which means it offers a softer and quieter typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile is described as having a neutral sound profile, which suggests a moderate level of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is characterized as a stepped, accented, and polished switch. The stepped feel indicates that the switch has two stages, offering a mild tactile experience with pre-travel and/or post-travel. The accented feel implies a prominent level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
Similarly, the WS Silent Tactile is described as an accented switch, providing a medium level of tactility that is pronounced but not excessive. It also aims to offer an invigorating typing sensation, characterized by pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Additionally, the switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the WS Silent Tactile switches prioritize noise reduction without compromising on tactile feedback. While the Silent T1 offers a muted sound and a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the WS Silent Tactile offers a neutral sound and an accented, invigorating, and mild feel. Depending on personal preference, both switches provide a blend of tranquility and tactility, ensuring a satisfying typing experience in noise-sensitive environments.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches, it all comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a switch that offers both tactility and silence, and you frequently find yourself in noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 is the ideal choice for you. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, it strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and minimized noise.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch that balances tactility and noise reduction while maintaining a crisp bottom-out and responsive return, the WS Silent Tactile is the switch for you. Crafted with precision, these switches feature stem railings with small cutouts, effectively reducing switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly tactile experience. The absence of silicone dampeners sets them apart from conventional silent switches, providing a typing experience free from the usual padded feel found in most silent switches.
In terms of sound, the Silent T1 is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile is described as neutral and muted, making it suitable for most intents and purposes while minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards.
Regarding feel, the Silent T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished experience, providing a mild and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile provides an accented, invigorating, and mild feel, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive typing sensation that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on whether you prioritize a balance between tactility and silence or prefer a switch that offers pronounced feedback and a more muted sound. Consider your personal preferences and requirements to determine which switch will enhance your typing experience.
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