Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two remarkable mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Crystal Violet, a tactile switch, offers a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with its light operating force of 45g. Crafted with precision, these switches provide a gentle and comfortable feel that is ideal for those seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing session. Furthermore, the Crystal Violet switches emit a pleasantly mellow sound profile, leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the go-to option for maximum tactility enthusiasts. This switch offers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. It is categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that perfectly suits your preferences.
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
4.00 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
ABS
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in terms of their housing materials. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing, which is a relatively rare plastic to be used in switch housings. The ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet provides a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing, which can be a unique experience compared to other switches. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile of the POM top housing is deeper and relatively more muted compared to ABS.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Crystal Violet and the POM T1 (Sunflower) share the same material, which is ABS. This is again a relatively rare choice for switch housings. Consequently, both switches offer a similar low-pitched sound profile when typing. However, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. So, despite the same housing material, the overall experience of pressing down on these switches may differ slightly due to other factors such as spring weight and design choices.
While the top and bottom housings of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) have distinct characteristics, they ultimately contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the respective bottom housing will be more prominent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while their housing materials may differ, both switches create a unique and satisfying typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the POM T1's actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Crystal Violet is 55 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the POM T1's bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Crystal Violet, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This lighter weight can be particularly ideal for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards a switch with a stronger push feel, such as the POM T1. The heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 provides a satisfying tactile feedback for those seeking a more pronounced key press.
Overall, while the Crystal Violet leans towards the lighter side and the POM T1 towards the heavier side, both switches offer different typing experiences based on the user's preferences. In cases where the actuation forces are unknown, it is difficult to provide a direct comparison; however, based on the provided information, it is clear that the POM T1 offers a slightly heavier bottom out force than the Crystal Violet.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile 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 switch, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from its starting position to its bottom. Both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring a consistent typing or gaming experience. Whether using the Crystal Violet or the POM T1, users can expect a comfortable and familiar key press with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a pleasantly mellow experience. With a sound profile leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum, it creates a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. This can be attributed to the rare and special use of ABS in the switches' housings. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch delivers a resonant and clean clack sound. Its higher-pitched profile provides an immersive auditory experience. Both switches are described as having a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used, so results may vary.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience. This switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, offering a glide-like feeling with each keystroke. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch is described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a sharp and accented feel. The sharp tactile bump is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This switch provides a higher feedback intensity without being overwhelming. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is also described as snappy and invigorating, with a super responsive and reactive feel. Overall, these switches provide different tactile experiences, catering to different preferences.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Violet has a mellow sound profile and a creamy, mild, and stepped feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a resonant sound profile and a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating feel. Both switches have a moderate sound profile and can be suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you intend to use them at home or work. While the subjective qualities may differ between the two switches, if you are looking for a similar result, you can expect a pleasant and comfortable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter operating force and a relaxed typing experience, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch with its 55-gram bottom out force is the way to go. These switches offer a gentle and comfortable feel, making them ideal for those seeking a more step-by-step tactile typing experience. The Crystal Violet switches also have a pleasantly mellow, low-pitched sound profile, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you are after maximum tactility and a clean clack sound, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with its 67-gram bottom out force is the better choice. These switches provide a sharp and satisfying tactility, making each keypress feel distinct. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile, which adds to the immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches depends on your preference for operating force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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