TTC Gold Pink vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that cater to different preferences are the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Gold Pink is a linear switch, known for its light actuation force of 37g, making it one of the lightest switches available. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, whether for rapid typing or gaming. With its clacky sound and satisfying level of feedback, it delivers a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is a tactile switch designed for those who desire both tactile feedback and a silenced experience. It offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Despite their differences, both switches are categorized as 'Polished', indicating a level of refinement in their overall performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tone. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, these housings are translucent, making them ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using both the Gold Pink and Silent T1 (Shrimp).
In contrast, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches. The Gold Pink features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) incorporates the same material. Nylon, a classic switch housing material, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer composition allows for the absorption of more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housing, such as the Gold Pink and Silent T1 (Shrimp), will elicit a distinct sound experience, enhancing the overall tactile feedback during use.
It's important to consider the impact of each housing material within the context of switch usage. When pressing down on either the Gold Pink or Silent T1 (Shrimp), the sound and feel will be primarily influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing, known for its sound absorption, will shape the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback experienced upon key depression. On the other hand, the top housing material, which is polycarbonate in both switches, will contribute to the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the distribution of these housing materials allows users to appreciate the nuanced sound characteristics and tactile experience provided by the Gold Pink and Silent T1 (Shrimp).
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in both the actuation force and the bottom out force. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams, which requires a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable, thus making it difficult to determine how much force is needed for keystroke activation. Similarly, the Gold Pink has a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a relatively light and easy-to-press switch. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier and requiring a stronger push to fully depress the switch.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gold Pink switch more suitable as it allows for longer periods of typing without strain. This lightweight characteristic makes it ideal for keyboards used in work settings or during long gaming sessions. However, for those who desire a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be a better choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force, it provides a satisfying push while typing, giving a more robust and tactile experience.
Ultimately, while the actuation force for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is unavailable, it is clear that the Gold Pink offers a lighter actuation force compared to the observed bottom out force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp). Therefore, if similar results are desired, one can expect a lighter actuation force compared to the heavier bottom out force in the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm of travel distance. Consequently, the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are equal, ensuring similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as muted. This means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. The buttery quality implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, while the mild characteristic offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most. The feathery feature indicates that the switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle nature of the Gold Pink switch means it has a gentle resistance without being overly feather-like, making it suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, the polished attribute means the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished. The stepped feature refers to its tactile nature, providing a two-stage tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The accented quality means that it offers a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Similar to the Gold Pink switch, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch also has a polished attribute, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gold Pink switch excels in providing a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a tactile experience with a muted sound. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel. If you're looking for a switch with similar sound qualities to the Gold Pink switch, you can achieve that by using the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch in combination with a keyboard board and keycaps that complement its sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience, especially for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams and an actuation force of 37 grams, these switches provide a fast and effortless typing experience. They offer satisfying feedback with their clacky sound and have descriptors such as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that is both tactile and silenced, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. They are perfect for noise-sensitive environments with their muted sound. Described as stepped, accented, and polished, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a more mild and prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy.
Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch would depend on your preference for typing experience and noise level. Consider the weight, actuation force, sound, and feel of each switch to determine which one suits your needs best.
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