Dareu Aqua vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it's interesting to note the distinct features that set them apart. The Aqua switch is known for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a tactile and silenced experience, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments with its medium bump and subdued audio feedback. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the Silent T1 is stepped, accented, muted, and polished. Both switches have their unique strengths that cater to different preferences, but 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of sound profile, both switches are likely to produce similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Aqua and Silent T1 (Shrimp) bring a different set of qualities to the switches. Nylon is described as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housings. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate top housings. Despite both switches utilizing nylon bottom housings, the differences in sound profile may still be noticeable when using the switches.
When considering the overall feel and sound of a switch, the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom can have a significant impact. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, as well as the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of choosing the right housing materials for your desired typing experience, whether it be a sharper and clearer sound from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua switch may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Silent T1 with its heavier bottom out force may be the better option. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, with the Aqua offering a lighter touch and the Silent T1 providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying keypress feel with their 4 mm travel distance. Overall, whether you choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance for each keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch is unique with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a mix of squeaky and sharp tones during typing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a more muted sound profile, designed for noise-sensitive environments and offering a quieter typing experience overall.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force for key activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a medium bump with a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is suited for those who prefer a light actuation force and distinctive sound profile, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is ideal for individuals seeking a combination of tactile feedback and silence during typing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on the individual's typing style and preferences. If a user enjoys a lighter touch and chirpy sound, the Dareu Aqua would be a suitable choice, while those looking for a tactile feel with muted sound may lean towards the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch. Ultimately, trying out both switches hands-on may provide the best insight into which switch fits one's typing preferences the most.
Conclusion
In choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a lighter touch, easy-to-press keys, and a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch may be the best fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers both tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch with its medium bump and muted sound profile would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize typing comfort, sound profile, or a combination of both. You can't go wrong with either switch as long as it aligns with your personal preferences.
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