Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Durock T1. If you're in search of a keyboard switch that offers a unique experience, the Semi-Silent Linear is an excellent choice. Known for its innovative design, this linear switch provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while still maintaining a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. Its silky smooth feel adds to its appeal, without being overly polished. On the other hand, if comfort and tactility are your top priorities, the Durock T1 proves to be an exceptional option. With a medium bump when pressing down, typing becomes a pleasure on this tactile switch, and the sound it produces resembles the soothing patter of rain on a window. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Durock T1 share similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when using either the Semi-Silent Linear or the T1.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches. The Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing, while the T1 utilizes the same material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches enhances the overall sound experience, giving users a satisfying and immersive typing feel.
When considering the impact on the sound and feel, the qualities of the respective housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of both the Semi-Silent Linear and the T1 plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the specific preferences of the user, they can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience, whether they prioritize the bottom-out sound or the sound when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. Firstly, the actuation force of both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to determine a direct comparison. However, both switches fall into the medium weight category for their bottom out force. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Durock T1 has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it allows for easier and more comfortable keystrokes. This lighter option, as mentioned, is ideal for keyboards used in work environments or for gamers who require prolonged usage. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience and value a stronger push feel. These users may find a heavier switch to be more suitable, as it provides a satisfying sensation when pressing the keys.
In terms of actuation force, since the values are unavailable for both switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it can be assumed that the actuation force of both switches would be similar, resulting in comparable results.
To summarize, while the actuation force remains unknown for both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Durock T1 switches, the bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is lighter at 62 grams (medium), while the Durock T1 is slightly heavier at 67 grams (medium-heavy). The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences, with the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear being suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, and the Durock T1 being more suitable for users who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have different travel distances. The Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In that case, the Durock T1 tactile switch with its longer travel distance would be a more suitable choice. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is best known for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound. This unique feature creates a semi-silent experience that is not completely silent, but offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The sound of the Semi-Silent Linear switch can be described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various settings like home or work. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is best known for its superb typing comfort. When pressing down, users will notice a medium bump that provides a pleasant tactile feedback. The sound of the T1 switch is often compared to the gentle sound of rain falling on a window. It can be described as low-pitched, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Similar to the Semi-Silent Linear, the T1 switch also offers a neutral sound profile and requires a moderate actuation force. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, regardless of their typing skill level or the environment they are using the switch in.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for its silky smooth type feel. The switch offers a mild typing experience, with its qualities standing in a safe middle-ground zone. It can also be described as snappy and buttery. The snappy characteristic indicates that the switch is super responsive, providing a more alive typing experience. The buttery quality implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Semi-Silent Linear switch can be considered polished, as it has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
Comparatively, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped feel. This means that it has two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel before and after the main bump. The T1 switch can also be described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Similar to the Semi-Silent Linear, the T1 switch is also polished, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Durock T1 tactile switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Semi-Silent Linear provides a semi-silent experience with a clacky bottom-out sound, while the T1 offers a gentle rain-like sound and a medium bump for tactile feedback. The Semi-Silent Linear has a silky smooth type feel, while the T1 provides a stepped feel with prominent tactility. Both switches can be described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a pleasant typing experience. The Semi-Silent Linear is best described as having a subdued sound, which means it produces a dampened sound when pressed, making it suitable for both home and work environments. In terms of feel, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a mild, snappy, and buttery typing experience, which is approachable to most users. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Durock T1 switch would be a fantastic option. It is known for its super comfortable typing experience, with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. The T1 is described as having a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the T1 provides a stepped or accented tactility, depending on your preference, and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Durock T1 comes down to your personal preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific qualities and sound profiles that appeal to you.
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