TTC Iron vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. The TTC Iron stands out for its clacky sound signature that adds a level of satisfaction to each key press, along with its lightweight actuation for fast and comfortable typing sessions. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its maximum tactility, offering a sharp and satisfying keystroke experience. While the Iron switch provides an easy-to-press and smooth typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a more resonant and sharp feel. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature POM housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. This means that they will have a similar sound profile that is described as pleasing and unique, with a deeper and relatively more muted tone. The qualities of the POM material will be evenly distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. As a result, you can expect to get similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches due to their shared housing materials.
However, if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of the housing materials will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. In the case of the TTC Iron and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), since both switches have POM housing materials for both the top and bottom housings, the impact of the housing material will be consistent throughout the switch. This means that the sound profile and feel of the switch will be similarly influenced by the POM material in both switches.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Iron and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may come down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics and any additional features each switch may offer. In terms of the housing materials, both switches offer the unique sound profile and feel of POM material, creating a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the Iron's design or the Sunflower's appearance, both switches will provide a similar sound and feel due to their shared POM housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that the Iron has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the POM T1's unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Iron at 50 grams is also lighter than the POM T1's heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This suggests that the Iron switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces as well as their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Iron being a bit on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Iron for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the POM T1. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each press that adds a crisp and percussive element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a resonant sound profile, delivering a higher-pitched and clean clack that enhances the auditory feedback while typing. Both switches fall under a neutral sound profile category in terms of actuation force and sound intensity, making them suitable for various settings, whether at home or work. Ultimately, the choice between the two would be based on personal preference for a sharp clacky sound or a resonant and clean clack while typing.
In regard to feel, the TTC Iron switch features an easy-to-press characteristic, offering gentle resistance during key presses, resulting in minimal force required to activate the switch. This light actuation force ensures effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended usage. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a sharp and pronounced tactile bump, giving off a strong and crisp tactile feedback with each keypress. It also falls under the category of accented switches, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still prominent. Whether you prefer an easy-to-press and mild typing experience or a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, both switches offer unique typing sensations that cater to different preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct characteristics that appeal to different users. While the Iron switch excels in producing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the POM T1 switch delivers a resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users can achieve a customized typing experience based on their desired auditory and tactile sensations.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a light actuation force and smooth travel for quick and pleasurable typing sessions, the Iron may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek maximum tactility with a sharp tactile bump and satisfying clack sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
