Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options catering to different preferences. 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 Zero Degree 0° by Gateron is a linear switch that boasts unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. While the Silent T1 is ideal for those seeking a tactile and silenced typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° excels in providing a quiet typing experience with a linear feel. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the two switches may offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Zero Degree 0° use nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing this material for the bottom housing. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will be impacted more by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, offering a different typing experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials.
Overall, while the top housings of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate construction, the differences in their bottom housing materials - nylon for both switches - may lead to varying typing experiences. The use of softer nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper sound from the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their overall sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of weight. The Silent T1 has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in this aspect compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent T1 requires 67 grams, which is heavier than the Zero Degree's unavailable bottom out force. This means that the Silent T1 provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Zero Degree offers a lighter actuation force for easier typing over longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Silent T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm. The Silent T1 offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Zero Degree provides a shallower experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may lean towards the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired key 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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is a great choice for those who value a tactile typing experience with minimal sound, making it suitable for quiet working environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offers a unique design that focuses on providing a smooth and stable typing experience with reduced noise. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, with the Silent T1 offering a more subdued sound profile and a medium tactile bump, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on delivering unparalleled smoothness and a soft, elastic feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for tactile feedback and noise level tolerance. However, both switches promise a quality typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your primary preferences. If you value a tactile and silenced typing experience, the Silent T1 is the way to go, especially if you are in a noise-sensitive environment. The Silent T1 offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, stability, and a noise-absorbing typing experience, opt for the Zero Degree 0° linear switch with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize tactility and silence or smoothness and stability in your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
