Huano Grape Orange vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) can significantly influence your typing experience. The Grape Orange is renowned for its ultra-light actuating force of just 40g, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a smooth, linear typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a tactile sensation with sharp feedback and a satisfying clack, perfect for users who crave an invigorating and responsive typing interaction. While both switches present unique advantages—effortless typing with the Grape Orange and pronounced tactility with the POM T1—your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) Tactile

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$7.00

$5.57 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), distinct sound profiles and construction materials play a significant role in their overall performance. The Grape Orange employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer characteristics, which allow for a clear and resonant acoustic response. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which cultivates a deeper, more muted sound. While polycarbonate enhances clarity and brightness in sound, POM's unique composition results in a richer, fuller auditory experience. Hence, the differences in the top housing materials between the two switches can yield notably different sound outputs.

Examining the bottom housing reveals that the Grape Orange uses a nylon material, known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, rounder sound profile. The nylon's softer nature allows it to dampen noise more effectively compared to harder plastics. Meanwhile, the Durock POM T1 also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, which replicates the unique, muted sound it achieves in the top housing. Ultimately, both switches aim for a deeper sound experience, but the Grape Orange nuances that depth with its nylon material, while the POM T1 maintains consistency through its use of POM in both housings. Therefore, while their choices of materials diverge, both switches fulfill an aim for a pleasing sound experience.

In terms of practical outcomes, although the two switches employ different materials for their top housings, the combined effects of the sound profiles can balance out during usage. The crispness of the Grape Orange's polycarbonate top may lead to a bright sound upon release, whereas the deeper tones from its nylon bottom will enhance the overall experience by providing richer undertones. In contrast, the Durock POM T1's all-POM housing will result in a more uniform sound profile that emphasizes its inherent muted tones both when typing and upon releasing the keys. Therefore, although the Huano Grape Orange and Durock POM T1 have differing materials, these design choices lend themselves to producing distinct yet effectively complementary auditory feedback when typing.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, impacting the overall typing experience. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who favor extended typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) lacks a specified actuation force but has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy experience that may appeal to those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback and more substantial push when typing. As a result, users who lean towards lighter switches would gravitate toward the Grape Orange for its lower forces, while those seeking a heavier, more resistance-based feel would find the POM T1 more to their liking. The substantial difference in forces between these two switches suggests that the typing experience will vary significantly, catering to different preferences among users.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in key feel and responsiveness. The Huano Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the POM T1's 4 mm travel distance. This makes the Grape Orange a better option for those who enjoy quicker actuation and faster response times, aligning well with the recent trend favoring shorter travel distances among gamers. Conversely, the POM T1, with its longer travel distance, provides a more traditional feel, often appreciated by users who prefer the sensation of deeper key presses and a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, if you lean towards a more responsive setup, the Huano Grape Orange would be the preferred choice, while if you favor a fuller depth, the Durock POM T1 would be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, the Grape Orange switch is often characterized by a muted, somewhat soft sound typical of linear switches, which tends to be quieter and less invasive, making it suitable for a variety of environments, including shared spaces. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant and sharp clack, creating a higher-pitched auditory experience that can be quite enjoyable for users who appreciate a more pronounced sound. This cleaner, more immersive sound profile is particularly appealing for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing, enhancing the overall tactile experience.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is known for its exceptionally light actuation force of 40g, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience that is easy on the fingers, especially during extended sessions. This makes it comfortable but devoid of tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a fluid keystroke without interruption. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is celebrated for its sharp and prominent tactile bump which offers a striking contrast. With its invigorating feedback, the switch provides a snappy, responsive typing experience that feels alive, giving users distinct confirmation with each keypress. This tactile sensation can cater well to typists looking for an engaging and dynamic relationship with their keyboard.

In conclusion, while the Huano Grape Orange and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are designed with different user experiences in mind, they each have their unique strengths that appeal to distinct preferences. The Grape Orange excels in delivering a smooth and quiet typing experience ideal for long sessions, while the POM T1 offers a pronounced tactile feedback and resonance that enhances the typing experience for those who enjoy a bit more engagement. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a linear, silent experience or a tactile, auditory interaction.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, particularly for extended sessions where comfort is crucial, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice with its ultra-low 40g actuation force and smooth, linear feel. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a quieter operation and don't require tactile feedback, making it a suitable option for both work and casual use. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile and engaging typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers pronounced tactility and a satisfying auditory feedback with its resonant sound profile. The medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams provides a more defined response, making it perfect for users who enjoy feeling that clear bump with each keypress and appreciate the invigorating sensation it offers. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style—whether you lean towards a smooth, effortless glide or a sharp, responsive tactile experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) Tactile

$7.00

$5.57 per 10

Learn more