Huano Acacia vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) present two compelling yet distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Huano Acacia is a linear switch that is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, all of which contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience straight out of the box. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize speed and fluidity without the distraction of tactile bumps. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that delivers maximum tactility, featuring a sharp bump and a satisfying "clack" upon actuation. Its categorization as resonant, snappy, and invigorating makes it perfect for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience filled with feedback. Both switches offer unique advantages—whether it's the Acacia's smooth, unencumbered keystrokes or the POM T1's punchy tactile response—depending on your typing style and preferences. 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
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influence their respective sound profiles. The Huano Acacia features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic results from polycarbonate's stiffness, enhancing resonance and clarity in sound output. Particularly advantageous for RGB lighting applications, the translucency of polycarbonate can amplify visual effects, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking vibrant aesthetics. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 employs a POM top housing that generates a deeper, more muted sound profile. While both materials contribute uniquely to the overall acoustic experience, the polycarbonate offers a brighter response compared to the POM, which tends to provide a warmer and more rounded tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches again diverge, but interestingly, they share similarities in sound characteristics due to their respective compositions. The Huano Acacia features a nylon bottom housing that is traditionally recognized for yielding a fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic nature absorbs sound, thus creating a deeper and rounder aural experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 also utilizes a POM material for its bottom housing, resulting in a sound that is not only muted but pleasantly unique. While the nylon housing brings a more classic character to the bottom-out sound, the POM material can provide a comparable depth, albeit with a different tonal presence. Therefore, both switches produce compelling acoustic results, though they manifest differently due to the material disparities in their top housings.
In terms of overall performance, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in defining the end-user experience. The Acacia's polycarbonate top accentuates higher frequencies when keys are released, while its nylon bottom contributes to a rich, deeply toned sound during operation. Conversely, the Durock POM T1's POM top provides a consistent transition into the muted tone of its POM bottom, creating a cohesive sound experience that appeals to users who prefer a smoother keypress feel. In scenarios where both options are utilized, users may find that though the Huano Acacia and Durock POM T1 engage in different acoustic profiles due to the materials used, they can result in similar compelling auditory experiences by selecting configurations that balance the influence of both housings.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Acacia features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it on the medium-light side, which can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming as it requires less force to register a keystroke. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unspecified actuation force but presents a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, aligning it with a medium-heavy classification. This increased bottom out force suggests a more substantial feel, likely appealing to users who prefer tactile feedback and a stronger push while typing. Overall, the Huano Acacia is the lighter option, while the Durock POM T1 is the heavier switch, ultimately catering to different user preferences for tactile experiences.
Travel distance
The Huano Acacia linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of half a millimeter may seem negligible, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. The Acacia, with its shorter travel distance, offers a more responsive feel, making it particularly appealing for gamers who favor quick keystrokes and swift reaction times. On the other hand, the POM T1's travel distance provides a more traditional and hearty depth that some users might prefer for a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, those seeking a quicker response may gravitate towards the Acacia, while others who appreciate a more robust tactile feedback might opt for the POM T1.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 per 10 switches.
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 Huano Acacia linear switch produces a quieter auditory profile, typical of linear switches, which favors a smoother typing experience without the pronounced clickiness found in tactile or clicky switches. This allows it to perform well in various environments, including offices where lower noise levels are desirable. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch stands out with its resonant and clean sound profile. The higher-pitched sound of the T1 adds an immersive auditory experience during typing, while its neutral characteristics ensure it isn't overly loud, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings.
When it comes to feel, the Acacia switch is characterized by its medium-light weight and the lack of any tactile feedback, providing a linear feel that is smooth and consistent across keypresses. This makes it appealing for those who enjoy a hassle-free, straightforward typing experience. Conversely, the POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in delivering a pronounced tactile sensation. With sharp feedback and a clean tactility, typing on the T1 feels invigorating and responsive, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with each keypress. The combination of its snappy and accented characteristics ensures that the tactile bump is both distinct and satisfying without being overwhelming.
Overall, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch largely depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel. The Acacia is suited for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, emphasizing linearity and ease of use. In contrast, the T1 is perfect for individuals who seek sharp feedback and an engaging auditory experience, making each keystroke feel lively and pronounced. Understanding these differences will help a newcomer decide which switch aligns best with their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the type of experience you wish to achieve. If you prefer a smooth and fluid typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Acacia is an excellent option. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, combined with its generous factory lubrication, ensures a pleasant feel that is suitable for long typing sessions, making it ideal for programmers, writers, or anyone who enjoys a seamless key press. However, if you are someone who values tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would likely be more your speed. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, the T1 offers a sharp and invigorating tactile bump that enhances your engagement with each keystroke, which is particularly enjoyable for gaming or responsive typing tasks. Additionally, its resonant sound profile lends itself to a more immersive auditory sensation. In essence, choose the Acacia for comfort and smoothness, or the POM T1 for an engaging and tactile experience.
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