Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present distinct options tailored to different user preferences. The Silent T1 stands out as an ideal choice for individuals in noise-sensitive environments thanks to its tactile feedback combined with a silenced operation. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio give a comfortable typing experience that is both responsive and discreet. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to those who appreciate a smooth, linear typing experience with a heavier actuation force. The unique PA12 top housing and POM stem create a soft acoustic profile, delivering a crisp, higher-pitched sound that adds a touch of sophistication. While both switches have their unique benefits— the Silent T1 being perfect for stealthy typing sessions and the Xinhai (Heavy) offering a more pronounced auditory feedback through its linear design— it's important to understand their differences in depth. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your personal typing style and environment.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a key distinction arises in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Silent T1 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic allows for a more pronounced resonance, resulting in a sound that is both clear and bright. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a nylon top housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound waves rather than projecting them, yielding a duller and rounder tone. This critical difference in the materials directly affects the auditory experience users can expect from each switch, with the Silent T1 delivering a more vibrant response and the Xinhai offering a gentler acoustics.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the Silent T1 and the Xinhai are identical, as both utilize nylon. This similarity results in a common auditory signature when bottoming out the switch. The nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, producing that deeper and fuller profile characteristic of nylon switches. Therefore, while the top housing materials dictate the timbre experienced when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing fortifies the audio experience during the actuation, enabling a smoother and more harmonious sound. Consequently, regardless of the differences in the top housing, users will find a unified sonic quality in the bottoming action of both switches.
Ultimately, the combined effects of these diverse housing materials create a rich and layered sound experience for users. For the Silent T1, the polycarbonate top contributes to a more exciting and crisp release, while its nylon bottom ensures a satisfying and muted bottom-out experience. Conversely, the Xinhai’s nylon top rounds out the sound profile further with a muted release, while its bottom housing also delivers a pleasant and fuller sound upon actuation. While there are contrasts in the top housing materials, the similarities found in the nylon bottom housing allow both switches to deliver a consistent quality of sound when pressed, enriching the overall typing experience regardless of the user's choice.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, some key differences emerge regarding actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent T1 does not have a specified actuation force, which makes direct comparison challenging. However, we do know that its bottom out force is 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy overall experience. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a clear actuation force of 55 grams, which is lighter than the Silent T1's bottom out force, suggesting that it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Moreover, the Xinhai switch's bottom out force is 62.5 grams, also lighter than the Silent T1. This implies that typists who prefer a lighter actuation for extended typing sessions may find the Xinhai more comfortable, while those who enjoy a heavier, more substantial feel might prefer the Silent T1. Overall, the Xinhai is the lighter switch, while the Silent T1 offers a heavier tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Silent T1 the longer of the two switches, providing a more substantial feedback that some users might appreciate for its depth. In contrast, the Xinhai switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer quicker response times, making it a potentially better fit for gamers seeking speed and efficiency. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for depth versus responsiveness; those who prioritize a more pronounced feel might lean toward the Silent T1, while those favoring a quicker actuation could opt for the HMX Xinhai.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 sound profiles of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it’s clear that the Silent T1 is specifically designed for a quieter typing experience. The muted audio characteristics of the Silent T1 minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustic profile. While the exact sound signature of the Xinhai is not defined, its POM stem suggests it may produce a higher-pitched resonance during key presses, potentially resulting in a more distinct auditory feedback compared to the Silent T1. Overall, users seeking a quieter experience would lean towards the Silent T1, while those who appreciate a bit more sound might find the Xinhai appealing.
In terms of feel, the Durock Silent T1 excels with its tactile attributes. With a medium bump and polished characteristics, it provides a refined typing experience that balances a noticeable tactile feedback without being overwhelming. The stepped tactile design allows for a clear delineation of key travel stages, giving users a satisfying keystroke without the harshness of hypertactile switches. There’s no specific information available about the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy), but as a linear switch, it is typically characterized by a smoother, uninterrupted key travel, which might lack the tactile feedback found in the Silent T1. If the Xinhai is compared to other linear switches, it may still offer a different experience from the intricacies of the tactile feel offered by the Silent T1.
In conclusion, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a strong choice for users prioritizing a muted sound and a well-designed tactile feel. Its versatile characteristics make it suitable for both work and casual use, especially in environments where noise reduction is essential. Conversely, while the sound profile of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is less defined, the use of specific materials suggests it may provide a unique auditory experience, combined with a smooth linear feel that appeals to different preferences. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on one’s personal priorities—whether one values tactile feedback and quietness or seeks higher-pitched sound and a smooth key press.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and your typing environment. If you find yourself in a noise-sensitive situation—be it an office, a library, or around others who are easily distracted—the Silent T1 is an excellent choice. It provides a satisfying tactile bump without the auditory disturbances of traditional switches, making it ideal for quiet typing. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams ensures a solid feel that can help mitigate accidental key presses, while its muted sound profile keeps your typing discreet. On the other hand, if you seek a more responsive, smooth experience with a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) could be your ideal option. Known for its crisp acoustics and refined performance, it offers a delightful linear typing experience that’s well-suited for both gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize a tactile feedback experience in a quieter setting, or a smooth, linear feel that allows for rapid keystrokes and clearer sound.
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