Gateron Ink Red vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. With their smooth and satisfyingly crisp feel, these switches offer an effortless typing experience, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch, perfect for individuals seeking maximum tactility. Typing on these switches provides a sharp tactility and a pleasing clean clack sound. While these general pointers may be helpful in your decision-making process, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Red features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which lends it a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying, clacky sound that is not overly sharp. On the other hand, the POM T1 has POM top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. This unique sound is known for its pleasing qualities.
While the top and bottom housings of these two switches differ in material, they both play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the Gateron Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing and the Durock POM T1's POM bottom housing will both have an impact on the characteristics experienced during a keystroke.
On the other hand, the top housing of each switch will have a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Despite their different materials, both the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red and the POM top housing of the Sunflower contribute to creating unique sound profiles when the key is let go. The Ink Red delivers a thin and higher-pitched sound described as clacky, while the Sunflower offers a deeper and relatively more muted sound.
In summary, while the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 differ in their housing materials, they share similar qualities in terms of influencing the overall sound produced by the switch. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend providing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, and the POM T1's POM housing delivering a deeper and more muted sound. Whether it is the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing affecting the sound upon key release, both switches provide satisfying and unique auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the POM T1's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to gauge its sensitivity. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ink Red measuring 60 grams and the POM T1 weighing in at 67 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use may gravitate towards the Ink Red switch. This would be ideal for individuals who require a keyboard for work or indulge in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 becomes a favorable option.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Ink Red is known and in the medium range, the POM T1's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches share a medium bottom out force, with the POM T1 being slightly heavier. This means that those looking for a lighter switch for extended typing periods may opt for the Ink Red, while individuals seeking a stronger keystroke sensation might lean towards the POM T1.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red 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 with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that you will get similar results regardless of which switch you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer different experiences. The Ink Red is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. It provides a satisfyingly smooth and crispy sound, and some users have even noted a unique chirpy characteristic. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched tone. It delivers a clean and sharp clack that can create an immersive auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red and the POM T1 (Sunflower) again provide contrasting experiences. The Ink Red is known for its silky and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It has a mild characteristic, making it approachable to most users with its safe middle-ground qualities. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, typing on Ink Reds is effortless. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a sharp and accented tactile feedback. Its tactile bump is distinct and crisp with each keypress, providing a high feedback intensity. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is described as snappy and invigorating, offering a super responsive and immersive typing sensation.
Taking into consideration all the available information, the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) provide different subjective qualities. The Ink Red is perfect for those with a lighter typing style, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is suitable for those seeking maximum tactility, providing a sharp and clean clack with an invigorating and snappy feel. While the Ink Red is described as having a neutral sound profile and a silky, mild, and polished feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant sound profile and a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. If a user prefers a lighter typing style and a smoother feel, the Ink Red would be a great choice. However, if maximum tactility and a more intense feedback are what they seek, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches, consider your typing style and preference for tactility. If you have a lighter typing style and prefer a smoother linear switch, the Ink Red is a great choice. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience. Its crispy and clacky sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility and a punchy switch, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The clean clack and pronounced feedback create an invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preference for either a linear or tactile switch experience.
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