Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Aqua King and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Aqua King is a linear switch, known for its smoothness and lack of resistance. Typing on these switches feels as if you're effortlessly gliding across a freshly resurfaced ice skating rink. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that provides an intense level of tactility. If you're someone who craves a satisfying and pronounced click with each keystroke, then the POM T1 is the right choice for you. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in terms of their housing materials. The Aqua King features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) incorporates a POM top housing, which produces a more muted and deeper sound profile. While it may not have the same level of clarity as polycarbonate, POM offers a unique and pleasing sound experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Aqua King and the POM T1 (Sunflower) exhibit similar characteristics. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their bottom housings, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched, and responsive sound when the keys are pressed. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant bottom-out sound. These bottom housings also play a significant role in the overall feel of the switch, as they impact the tactile feedback and sensation when typing or gaming. So, while the top housings differ between the two switches, their shared polycarbonate bottom housings ensure a similar sound and feel when pressing the keys.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have distinct roles in determining the overall sound profile. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, as it is where the keys make contact when pressed down. In contrast, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom housing will result in different sound characteristics throughout the typing experience. While the Aqua King's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a more muted and deeper sound. Whether you prefer a more vibrant and pronounced sound or a subdued and unique sound, both switches offer distinct tonal qualities depending on the chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Aqua King requires 46 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the POM T1's actuation force is not specified. Despite this, we can assume that both switches fall within the medium range. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams of force to fully press down, while the POM T1 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some users prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, which can significantly reduce fatigue. In this case, the Aqua King, with its lower actuation and bottom out forces, would be a suitable choice. However, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those users, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 could provide the desired feedback and tactile response.
In conclusion, both the Aqua King and POM T1 switches offer medium actuation forces, with the POM T1's exact value being unavailable. However, the Aqua King has a lighter bottom out force compared to the medium-heavy bottom out force of the POM T1. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer consistent and reliable feedback due to their equal travel distance, ensuring a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Aqua King or the POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch provides a subdued experience. This means that when you press the keys, the sound produced is dampened and subtle. It is not completely silent, but it offers a more muted sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a resonant sound profile. This means you can expect a higher-pitched sound and an immersive auditory experience when typing. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) also has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level that suits most situations. It is important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King switch provides a truly frictionless experience. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across each key, creating a magical and smooth typing experience. The Aqua King switch can also be described as creamy, silky, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a smooth, buttery, and refined typing experience, possibly due to the use of lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its sharp tactility. With each keypress, you will experience a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch can also be described as accented, snappy, and invigorating, which means it provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming, feels responsive and alive, and offers pronounced feedback and a reactive feel.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the Everglide Aqua King linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua King provides a subdued sound and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant sound profile, sharp tactility, and a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. Depending on your preferences, you can choose either switch to enhance your typing experience. If you prefer a quieter sound and a smooth, frictionless feel, the Aqua King is a great option. If you crave a higher-pitched sound, strong tactile feedback, and a more responsive typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) will provide the desired qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless typing experience, the Everglide Aqua King linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches create a magical typing experience reminiscent of gliding on freshly resurfaced ice. Furthermore, the Aqua King switches have a subdued sound profile, offering a more subtle and dampened sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if maximum tactility and a satisfying clack are what you seek in a switch, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the perfect fit. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a sharp and punchy tactile bump with each keypress. They offer a clean and resonant sound profile, creating a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences. If you value a smooth and buttery typing experience with a subdued sound, the Aqua King is the way to go. However, if you crave a pronounced tactile bump and a satisfying clack noise, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. Consider your typing style, the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, and the level of tactile feedback you desire when making your choice.
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