Durock Blue Lotus vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, Durock offers two impressive options: the Blue Lotus and the POM T1 (Sunflower). The Blue Lotus is a tactile switch that stands out for its blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide a marked tactile feel that is perfect for those who crave a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Blue Lotus switches feature a detachable light column, allowing for vibrant and captivating RGB illumination. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is also a tactile switch but is best known for its maximum tactility. Typing on these switches delivers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, resulting in an invigorating typing experience. Both switches offer their unique characteristics and benefits, providing an array of options for discerning keyboard enthusiasts. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in terms of their composition. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing. The modified PC and UPE blend top housing of the Blue Lotus gives it a unique and premium feel, while the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile of the POM top housing is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, while the Blue Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend top housing does not specifically mention its sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Blue Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) also creates a deep sound profile, but has the added quality of being relatively more muted. This suggests that the POM bottom housing may produce a sound that is slightly less vibrant or pronounced compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Lotus.
While the top and bottom housings of the Blue Lotus and POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in material composition, they both have an impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of each switch contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even though the specific housing materials may vary, both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of the overall typing experience. However, it is worth noting that the unique qualities of the modified PC and UPE blend top housing of the Blue Lotus and the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. On the other hand, the actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown, but its bottom out force is slightly higher at 67 grams.
Considering the actuation force, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, the Blue Lotus provides a lighter touch at 55 grams compared to the POM T1, which has an unknown actuation force. If a lighter, more effortless typing experience is what you prefer, the Blue Lotus might be the better choice. However, if you desire a more substantial typing feel that requires a slightly stronger push, the POM T1 with its higher bottom out force of 67 grams might be the one to consider.
When it comes to bottoming out, or pressing the keys all the way down, both switches share the medium-heavy characteristic. The Blue Lotus requires a force of 65 grams to fully bottom out, while the POM T1 is slightly heavier at 67 grams. This means that both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed, providing a satisfying tactile experience.
Overall, if weight is a significant factor for you, the Blue Lotus might be more suitable for longer typing periods or extended gaming sessions due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience, the POM T1 with its slightly higher bottom out force could be a better option.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Lotus being slightly shorter and the POM T1 being slightly longer. The choice between the two will largely depend on personal preference. Gamers, for example, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Lotus for faster response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the POM T1 more satisfying for a deeper and more substantial key press. Ultimately, both switches will provide a comparable experience, with the only difference being the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Blue Lotus switches offer a bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have a resonant sound profile, characterized by a higher-pitched tone and a clean, sharp sound. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are also described as having a neutral sound, suitable for various purposes and skill levels. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches provide a medium level of tactility, delivering a prominent yet balanced tactile bump. These switches are also described as snappy, thanks to their responsive nature and potential use of longer or dual-staged springs. Furthermore, the Blue Lotus switches can be considered as stepped switches, offering a more mild tactile experience with the presence of some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In comparison, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are characterized by their sharp tactility, providing a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump. Similar to the Blue Lotus switches, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are also described as snappy and using accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are considered to be invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus switches and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Lotus switches have a bassy sound profile and a medium level of tactility with a stepped switch design, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have a resonant and neutral sound profile, along with a sharp tactility and invigorating typing sensation. Both switches are known for their snappiness and use accented switches. It's important to consider personal preferences and factors like keyboard and keycap choices to determine the best match for an individual's typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the choice between Durock Blue Lotus tactile switches and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches, it ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value a marked tactile feel and swift responsiveness with slightly reduced travel, the Blue Lotus switches would be a suitable choice. Additionally, the detachable light column allows for vibrant and captivating RGB illumination. On the other hand, if maximum tactility is your primary concern, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches deliver a sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack. These switches also provide a moderate actuation force requirement and a clean, sharp, resonant sound profile. Both switches offer accented and snappy feel, ensuring a responsive typing experience. As a final point, whichever switch you choose, both the Blue Lotus and POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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