[Closed] Are Shimano 9 speed and 10 speed front shifters the same functionaly ?

Yep, exactly the same

so I could use a 9 speed saint shifter with a 10 speed zee mech and 11-36 10 speed cassette?

I'd check that with someone in the know tbh. My lbs monkey riding buddy reckons that they have had a few folk in who just can't get the front shifting set up properly, using a 9 speed mech with a 10 speed setup. He reckons that there is a wee lip on the plate that actually lifts the chain across, which is required on some set ups, dunno if its dependant on the chain type or what.

I wouldn't be surprised, as the like of the big S's like you to have to buy the whole new kit. I'm interested in this too, as I'm for going all 10 when the new Cotic arrives.

Edit, I'm being a non reading numpty,
Sorry...

Works on my 2x10 soul.

Misread something...

You can use a front shifter from a 2/3x9 on a 2/3x10 setup.

You cant use a rear 9 speed shifter with a 10 speed setup as the pull ratios are different and theres an extra ring you wont be able to use.

Ok so another dumb ar5e question on the same subject

Are 9sp chainrings/ chainset okay to use or are they too thick or is the chainring spider too thick?
I do appreciate I need
1 10sp rear mech
2 10sp Cassette
3 10sp chain
4 10sp r/h shifter

Simple answer is no they are not the same.
The cage width is substantially different between a 9 and a 10 speed Shimano front mech meaning that its difficult (but not impossible) to get the chain to run through it at either end of the rear cassette extremities without rub and associated noise.
I spent hours trying to get my 2x9 working with a 10 speed front Shimano. Replaced it with a nine speed one and had it set up in five minutes.

Zero compatability between rear shifters and mechs for what its worth as they have differing leverage ratios.

You will be able to run a nine speed front on a ten speed set up, but it wont be precise.

Helpful list of what is compatible here:

[url= http://forums.mtbr.com/drivetrain-shifters-derailleurs-cranks/dyna-sys-10-speed-compatability-9-speed-shimano-systems-646014.html ]http://forums.mtbr.com/drivetrain-shifters-derailleurs-cranks/dyna-sys-10-speed-compatability-9-speed-shimano-systems-646014.html[/url]

As I said above your front shifter will work absolutely fine (I'm running this and it's flawless). The front mechs are slightly different to accommodate for the slightly narrower chain and larger shift ramps on the chain rings. From my experience a 9sp front mech will work but require slightly more adjustment to get it working smoothly.

I couldn't get a 10 speed front mech to work with a '9 speed' front shifter for love nor money.