Dareu Master vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Master switch is favored for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness, making it a popular choice for those seeking a linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is designed for those who desire a tactile switch with a subdued sound profile, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted audio feedback, providing a unique typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master's POM top and bottom housing provide a deep and muted sound profile, creating a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound, while its nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. The difference in housing materials between the two switches results in distinct typing sensations and acoustics, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Both the Dareu Master and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) focus on utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housings to optimize sound profiles. While the Master's POM top and bottom housing offer a consistent deep and muted sound, the Silent T1's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, complemented by the nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize enhancing the typing experience through the strategic use of housing materials to create distinct sound signatures.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The comparison between the POM and polycarbonate housings highlights the impact of material stiffness on sound characteristics, with POM resulting in a more muted sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Meanwhile, the contrast between nylon and POM housings showcases how material softness affects sound absorption, leading to varying levels of depth and fullness in the sound profile. Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly influence the typing feel and sound, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force of the Dareu Master linear switch is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Master has no specified value, whereas the Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy. This means that the Dareu Master is lighter in actuation force compared to the Silent T1, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a heavier push feel, ideal for those seeking a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Master switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent T1 switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and crisp when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a muted sound, softer and quieter compared to regular switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, your choice of board and keycaps will also influence the sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle yet refined finish that provides smooth key travel. On the contrary, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped and accented, offering a tactile experience with two stages of feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches are polished for reduced friction and sleek key travel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a muted sound and a stepped, accented feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get consistent results based on your specific preferences for noise level, tactile feedback, and smoothness of operation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Master if you prefer a classic clacky sound signature, smooth operation, and a medium weight switch with no defined bottom out force. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Silent T1 (Shrimp) if you desire a tactile and silenced switch, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch offers a more muted typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and operation smoothness (Master) or tactile feedback and noise reduction (Silent T1). Consider your personal preferences and typing environment to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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