Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, you might find yourself torn between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the PH Studio Yoel. The Silent T1 is an excellent choice for those seeking a tactile and silenced typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch offers a unique typing sensation categorized as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch by PH Studio provides a chewy typing experience with bright and clacky sound characteristics. Recognized for its satisfying and pronounced resonance when keys reach the bottom-out point, the Yoel is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on your preference for tactility and sound profile. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the PH Studio Yoel, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it especially useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the differences arise when looking at the bottom housing material. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Yoel's POM bottom housing that creates a more muted and unique sound.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a duller and rounder sound due to its softness and ability to absorb more sound vibrations. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel produces a deeper and more muted sound, which can be considered pleasing and unique. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the differences in the bottom housing materials contribute significantly to the overall sound experience they offer. It is worth noting that the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials impacts the typing feel and sound when pressing down on the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the PH Studio Yoel plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches benefit from the sharp and clear sound provided by the polycarbonate top housing, the differences in the bottom housing materials result in distinct sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with nylon or a more muted and unique sound with POM, both switches offer a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Yoel is the lighter option. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) has no specified actuation force, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier than the Yoel, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a medium level of force, with the Silent T1 (Shrimp) leaning towards the heavier side. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - lighter switches are ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a similar typing experience, with slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.2 mm travel distance of the PH Studio Yoel linear switch. In terms of travel distance, the Silent T1 offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press, while the Yoel provides a slightly shallower feel that may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer a traditional travel distance, with the Silent T1 being on the longer end of the spectrum and the Yoel on the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its muted profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This is ideal for noise-sensitive environments where you don't want loud typing noises to disturb others. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a bright and clacky sound that is sharp and percussive. It creates a satisfying and pronounced resonance when keys reach their bottom-out point, giving a different auditory experience compared to the Silent T1. Therefore, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 would be the better choice, while the Yoel is more suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced and clacky sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a stepped and accented tactile experience, with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. The switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience due to its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch is described as creamy and polished, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys. Both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Therefore, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a medium bump, the Silent T1 would be the better option, while the Yoel is perfect for those seeking a creamy and smooth typing feel.
Overall, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent T1 provides a muted sound profile and a stepped, accented tactile feel, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments and those who prefer a medium bump. In contrast, the Yoel offers a bright and clacky sound with a creamy, smooth feel, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced sound and a buttery typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between the Silent T1 for a quieter tactile experience or the Yoel for a more pronounced and smooth linear typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a tactile and silenced typing experience, particularly in noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that provides a bright and clacky typing experience with a satisfying resonance, the Yoel may be the better option for you. Take into account the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns more closely with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for and what features matter most to you.
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