Kailh Box White vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Kailh Box White, a clicky mechanical keyboard switch, and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch. If you're someone who values maximum audio feedback, the Box White switch is the way to go. Typing on these switches provides a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and an accented tactility. On the other hand, if you prioritize a strong tactile experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is perfect for you. With a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, typing on these switches feels invigorating. However, beyond these generalities, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of these switches so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches present distinct differences in terms of sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a unique and pleasing auditory experience.
Moving onto the bottom housings, the Box White features a nylon bottom housing, which lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) also contributes to a deeper sound profile, further enhancing the switch's muted qualities. Both switches rely on their respective bottom housings to shape the bottom-out sound and feel, reflecting the importance of this element in the overall typing experience.
While the two switches differ in their housing materials, they do share some similarities. Both the Box White's polycarbonate top housing and the POM T1 (Sunflower)'s POM top housing contribute to a unique and pleasing sound profile. Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) mirrors the deep sound characteristics of the nylon bottom housing in the Box White. Therefore, while there may be variations in sound and feel between the two switches, both can provide satisfying results for keyboard enthusiasts seeking distinct auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, weight becomes a significant factor. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which places it in the medium range. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier in the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box White switch would be ideal as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it suitable for professional environments or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who appreciate a more substantial and pronounced key press, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a stronger push feel with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can offer a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.
It is worth noting that while the actuation force for the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is unavailable, it is likely to fall within a similar range to the Box White, resulting in a similar actuation response. Both switches, therefore, offer comparable results when triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with the Box White being the lighter option and the POM T1 (Sunflower) offering a slightly heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which falls on the shorter side of the spectrum. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the norm, while 3.0 mm is on the shallower end. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be a good choice with its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial key press and a greater sense of depth, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback. When typing on these switches, users experience a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch sound and feel an accented tactility. The sound profile of the Box White switch can be described as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy. The resonant sound profile provides a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience, while the high-pitched characteristic produces a sharp and crisp sound. The crunchy sound is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. As for the feel, the Box White switch offers a polished experience, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its maximum tactility. When typing on these switches, users experience a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack sound. The sound profile of the POM T1 switch can be described as resonant and neutral. Similar to Box White, the resonant sound profile provides a higher-pitched and clean sound. The neutral sound profile indicates a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the POM T1 switch offers a sharp and accented tactile feedback, creating a distinctive sensation with each keypress. Additionally, it is described as snappy and invigorating, offering a responsive and immersive typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities. The Box White provides maximum audio feedback with its crunchy sound and polished feel, while the POM T1 offers maximum tactility with its sharp and accented tactile feedback. The sound profile of both switches can be resonant, but the Box White has a high-pitched characteristic, while the POM T1 has a more neutral profile. The feel of the Box White is smooth and polished, while the POM T1 is sharp, snappy, and invigorating. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, delivering similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for maximum audio feedback and a satisfying clicking experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you will feel a crisp and crunchy sensation, similar to stepping on autumn leaves, while typing. The sound profile of the Box White is resonant and high-pitched, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the ideal choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch offers a sharp and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The sound profile of the POM T1 is resonant and neutral, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. Furthermore, the POM T1 switch is described as accented, snappy, and invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, a reactive feel, and an immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch comes down to your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a loud clicky sound and a polished feel, go for the Box White. If you prioritize strong tactility and a clean clack sound, opt for the POM T1. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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