KTT Darling vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling, a linear switch, to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), a tactile switch, there are distinct differences in typing sensation and acoustics. The KTT Darling offers a chewy and substantial typing experience with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It produces a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a mix of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is designed for those seeking a tactile and silent switch, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. It features a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback for a more subtle typing experience. While each switch has its own unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing design. Therefore, both the Darling and Silent T1 (Shrimp) will likely offer similar sound profiles and design options when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housings, the KTT Darling and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature nylon as their chosen material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, the Darling and Silent T1 (Shrimp) will offer a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and overall feel, thanks to the shared use of nylon for their bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) results in a unique typing experience that balances the sharp, crisp sound profile of polycarbonate with the deeper, fuller sound profile of nylon. While both switches may offer differing characteristics in terms of the top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material ultimately come together to create a harmonious typing experience. Whether it's the resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the absorbing quality of the nylon bottom housing, both switches are designed to provide users with a tactile and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Darling at 53 grams is lighter than the Silent T1's 67 grams, making the Silent T1 a heavier option overall. The Darling's forces are considered medium-light, while the Silent T1 falls into the medium-heavy category. This means that typing on the Darling may require less effort and could be preferred for longer typing sessions, while the Silent T1 might provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Despite the difference in forces, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Darling being lighter and the Silent T1 being heavier, catering to different preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, while the Silent T1's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective travel distances, so users can expect different typing experiences from each switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound that is engaging and satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a muted sound profile that is softer and quieter, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The choice between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound, with the Darling offering a more pronounced auditory experience while the Silent T1 provides a more subdued and toned-down sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a springy and elastic sensation with each key press. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a medium bump, a refined tactile feel, and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Darling focusing on a lively and responsive feel, while the Silent T1 delivers a more nuanced and polished typing sensation.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch each have their own distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in providing a pronounced bouncy feel and resonant high-pitched sound, while the Silent T1 offers a more subdued and polished tactile experience with muted sound feedback. Choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches delivering a satisfying typing experience in their own right. It's important to consider how these switches will interact with your choice of keyboard and keycaps to optimize the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and springy responsiveness, along with a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, then the KTT Darling would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers both tactile feedback and a silenced typing experience, with a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, then the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the better option. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and key feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and environment. Happy typing!
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