TKC Kiwi vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the TKC Kiwi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Kiwi is a tactile switch that aims to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. It provides a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, immersing users in a truly enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, these switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch known for its maximum tactility. With a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, this switch delivers a punchy typing experience. Both switches offer their unique characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their housing materials, resulting in varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the POM T1's POM top housing creates a unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. While both housings provide distinct sound profiles, they differ in terms of brightness and depth.
Similarly, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to its bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks during typing. Conversely, the POM T1's POM bottom housing produces a pleasing sound profile that is deeper in tone and relatively more muted. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. Therefore, individuals can expect contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences based on the bottom housings of these switches.
Despite the differences, it is worth noting that if the top and bottom housing materials are the same, the resulting sound profiles and typing experiences will be similar. For instance, if both the Kiwi and the POM T1 featured UHWMPE or POM housings for both the top and bottom, users would witness comparable results in terms of sound tone, resonance, and impact. Thus, selecting switches with matching top and bottom housing materials may provide a consistent experience across the board.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Firstly, it's worth noting that both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy range. However, while the actuation force of the TKC Kiwi is specified at 43 grams, the actuation force of the POM T1 is unavailable. This means that for those who prioritize a lighter typing experience, the TKC Kiwi may be a better choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with stronger push feel, both switches offer the same bottom out force, providing similar results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi 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 of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Both switches provide a satisfying amount of tactile feedback during use. Therefore, whether you choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the subjective qualities of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, the sound profiles are different. The Kiwi has a low-pitched sound, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This sound profile creates a satisfyingly snappy typing experience that is immersive. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a resonant sound, which is higher-pitched and clean. This switch offers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. Both switches have a neutral sound profile overall, making them suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Kiwi switch provides a stepped and accented tactile experience. Stepped switches have two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, resulting in a mild tactile sensation. Accented switches offer a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a satisfying amount of feedback. Additionally, the Kiwi is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, creating a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp and accented tactile experience. The sharp tactile bump is strong and crisp, providing a high level of feedback intensity with each keystroke. Similar to the Kiwi, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is also described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility. Additionally, it is described as snappy, indicating a super responsive typing experience. This snappiness is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. The switch is also invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation.
Considering the available information, the TKC Kiwi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Kiwi offers a low-pitched sound profile, stepped and accented tactility, and a polished finish for reduced friction. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant sound profile, sharp and accented tactility, snappiness, and an invigorating typing sensation. Both switches have a neutral sound profile overall and provide a medium level of tactility. Therefore, if a newcomer is looking for a satisfying typing experience with a moderate level of tactility, either switch option would be suitable. The choice can be based on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as keyboard compatibility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi is a great choice. It provides a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, and the switches are lightly factory lubed for a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the Kiwi is stepped, accented, and polished, providing a mild tactile experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. It offers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. The POM T1 has a resonant and neutral sound profile, producing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the POM T1 is sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with a super responsive typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump with a low-pitched sound and a polished feel, the Kiwi is a great option. If you prefer maximum tactility with a sharp sound and a snappy feel, the POM T1 is the switch to go for. Assess your typing preferences to make an informed decision and enjoy a truly immersive typing experience.
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