Keygeek Keylin vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the smooth, linear feel of switches like the Keygeek Keylin and the pronounced tactile feedback offered by the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Keygeek Keylin is celebrated for its innovative molds and its ability to deliver a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it perfect for those who prefer a quiet and uninterrupted workflow. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is designed for users seeking maximum tactility, delivering a sharp and punchy experience with a satisfying clack that can enhance both typing comfort and enjoyment. While the Keylin offers a fluid motion ideal for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, the T1 caters to those who want the feedback of tactile sensations and auditory cues during their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a serene typing experience or a more engaging tactile response. 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we find both switches utilize distinctive plastics that influence their acoustic profiles. The Keylin features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its classic properties. The use of nylon, a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by a more muted and rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM, although it offers a unique sound profile that is also deep and muted, differs from nylon primarily in its hardness. This difference in materials can lead to variances in not just sound but also the tactile feedback of each key.
While both the Keylin and POM T1 (Sunflower) share a similar focus on creating a muted and rich auditory experience, the fundamental distinctions in their materials suggest that the user experience may vary. The nylon used in the Keylin housing tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller acoustic signature that enhances the smoothness of the keystrokes. Conversely, the POM material in the Durock POM T1 may introduce a slightly crisper feel due to its harder nature, despite both switches being described as having deep sound profiles. This subtle contrast can influence one's preference, depending on whether a user favors the softer feel of nylon or the more responsive texture of POM.
When considering the overall performance of each switch, it’s crucial to recognize how the different housing materials impact both sound and tactile feedback during typing. Since both switches aim for a deeper, more muted sound profile, users can expect similar results in terms of auditory satisfaction. However, the Keylin’s use of nylon may elicit a fuller sound upon bottoming out, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) could offer a pleasing blend of feedback and sound that feels slightly different due to the materials. Ultimately, users will appreciate a rich acoustic experience, but the tactile nuances introduced by each housing material might lead to diverse preferences based on personal typing style and auditory expectations.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, significant differences emerge in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing periods or lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the POM T1 switch has unknown actuation force but possesses a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to users seeking that tactile feedback. Overall, the Keylin switch is the lighter option, while the POM T1 is the heavier choice. This distinction suggests that typists or gamers who value a softer touch and ease of actuation might gravitate towards the Keylin, while those preferring a firmer feel may opt for the POM T1.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Keygeek Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Durock POM T1's travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Keygeek Keylin a more responsive option, catering to gamers or those who prefer quicker key presses, while the Durock POM T1 offers a more substantial travel distance, which may appeal to users who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, if you are looking for quicker actions, the Keygeek Keylin is the better choice; however, if you favor a full key press feel, the Durock POM T1 would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Keylin linear switch is recognized for its rich acoustics that contribute to a premium typing experience, suggesting a smooth and pleasant auditory profile. While specific descriptors for the Keylin sound aren't provided, the characteristics of linear switches typically lean toward a quieter operation without the distinct clicks or clacks found in tactile or clicky switches. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch boasts a resonant sound profile that is higher-pitched and offers a clean, sharp auditory experience alongside a neutral profile suitable for various environments. This duality in sound quality indicates that while the Keylin will provide a serene typing experience, the POM T1 will engage users with its more pronounced auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switch is not described in detail, but given its linear nature, one can expect a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps or resistance throughout the keypress. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a consistent and uninterrupted feel while typing. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is characterized by its sharp tactile feedback, featuring an invigorating sensation that emphasizes a pronounced tactile bump. It's snappy and responsive, which enhances the typing experience, combining a strong tactility with an invigorating feel that is not overwhelming. This distinction in feel points towards a contrasting experience: the Keylin's smoothness vs. the POM T1's pronounced tactile engagements.
In conclusion, if you are evaluating these two switches, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is perfect for those who value a smooth and quiet typing experience, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) caters to users seeking strong tactile feedback and a more engaging auditory experience. Although they deliver different qualities, both types can provide satisfying results tailored to a user's individual preferences, whether they lean towards a soothing linear feel or a lively tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and feedback over a subtle and smooth keystroke.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother, linear typing experience, the Keylin is an excellent option. Its 48 grams of bottom-out force complements an effortlessly fluid keypress that many find enjoyable, especially during long typing sessions or gaming. Moreover, if you appreciate acoustics, the Keylin provides a rich sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you are someone who enjoys the pronounced feedback and tactile sensation that comes with typing, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is your best bet. With a heavier 67-gram bottom-out force, this switch delivers a satisfying, sharp tactile bump that can invigorate your typing. The resonant sound profile offers an immersive auditory experience, making it ideal for those who relish the tactile and auditory feedback while typing. Thus, your choice boils down to whether you lean towards a smooth, linear experience or a snappy, tactile engagement, tailoring your mechanical keyboard setup to fit your unique needs and preferences.
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