Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the distinct differences in their design and intended use. The Aliaz switch is perfect for quiet environments such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight that delivers a substantial feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is tailored for those seeking maximum tactility, providing a sharp tactility and clean clack that is highly satisfying. While the Aliaz switch is characterized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the POM T1 (Sunflower) is categorized as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating'. Each switch has its own strengths and benefits, making them ideal for different preferences and environments. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the material used. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the T1 produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Aliaz providing a more distinct and resonant sound compared to the T1's softer and more subdued sound.
Additionally, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to its clear and resonant sound profile, whereas the POM bottom housing of the T1 enhances its deeper and more muted sound. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, so the material used in this part of the switch can greatly influence the overall typing experience. Both the Aliaz and the T1 offer unique qualities based on their bottom housing material, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences, they both share the characteristic of translucency in their top housing. This feature allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Despite their differences in sound profile, users can expect a similar level of visual appeal when using either of these switches in a keyboard setup with RGB lighting. Overall, the choice between the Aliaz and the T1 will come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a heavier actuation force at 60 grams compared to the unknown force of the POM T1. However, the bottom out force of the Aliaz at 75 grams is higher than the POM T1's 67 grams. This makes the Aliaz heavier in both aspects. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the POM T1, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Aliaz. Overall, the weight of a switch is crucial as it can impact the typing experience and comfort level of the user, ultimately determining the suitability of the switch for different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key feel and typing experience. The equal travel distance of both switches eliminates any potential differences in key actuation and overall typing feedback that may have arisen if one had a shorter or longer travel distance than the other. Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch is best suited for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience, as it produces a muted sound that minimizes noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a more resonant and immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched sound profile that provides a satisfying clean clack, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a punchier sound while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth key travel and reduced friction when pressing and releasing keys. This enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, providing a comfortable experience for prolonged use. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp and invigorating tactile bump with a snappy and responsive feel, providing a distinct feedback intensity with each keypress. The accented tactility of the switch ensures a medium tactile feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, creating an engaging typing sensation.
Considering all available information, it is clear that the Gateron Aliaz and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aliaz switch is tailored for a quieter typing experience with a substantial feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a punchier sound profile and sharp tactility. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feedback and noise levels. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve excellent results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches, you should consider your specific preferences and needs. If you value a quiet environment and a substantial typing feel, then the Aliaz switch with its muted sound and silky feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility and a sharp, resonant sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch with its sharp, accented feel could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience or a more tactile and invigorating one. Select the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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