Bsun Light Sakura vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often catch attention are the Bsun Light Sakura and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Light Sakura, a linear switch, is celebrated for its silent operation and ultra-light feel, making it an ideal choice for those who type for extended periods and require a comfortable and discreet experience, particularly in office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out with its distinctive tactile feedback, offering a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack that gives typists a more invigorating typing experience. While the Sakura caters to users who prioritize quietness and comfort, the T1 appeals to those who crave a punchy tactile feel with pronounced audio feedback. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Ly
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Light Sakura and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches each utilize distinct materials for their housings, leading to different auditory experiences. The Light Sakura features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. This material is characterized by its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This clarity is particularly advantageous when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to shine through vividly. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) adopts POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. While POM is known for its durability and low friction, it also produces a sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to polycarbonate. This difference can impact the overall experience of using the switches, as the auditory feedback directs user perception of performance.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals similar structural roles but differing sonic qualities. The Bsun Light Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of a bright and resonant sound, creating a cohesive auditory experience throughout the entire keypress. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) delivers a warmer, more subdued response that contributes to a unique sound signature. While both setups are designed to provide a satisfying bottom-out experience, they do so using the inherent properties of their respective materials, which affects not just sound, but also the tactile feedback felt by the user.
Ultimately, the choice of housing material in the Bsun Light Sakura and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches highlights the significance of materials in keyboard design. The polycarbonate housings of the Light Sakura aim for clarity and brightness, making them ideal for those who enjoy a sharper auditory cue during typing. Conversely, users who prefer a softer, more muted sound may gravitate toward the POM T1 with its deeper tones. This variety allows enthusiasts to select switches that align closely with their personal preferences, despite potential differences in material. In either case, understanding how the top and bottom housings influence the key experience can help users appreciate the overall performance—from the tactile feel to the sound produced—creating a tailored keyboard experience reflective of their preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch reveals notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Sakura features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unspecified actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which indicates a more substantial pressing experience. This difference in forces suggests that users looking for a more tactile and resistance-based feedback should gravitate towards the POM T1, while those who favor a lighter keystroke would benefit from the Bsun Light Sakura. Overall, the Light Sakura is the lighter option, while the POM T1 is on the heavier side, catering to distinct preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Light Sakura features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the POM T1 offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Durock POM T1, with its 4 mm distance, might provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who enjoy a deeper press, making it suitable for those who prefer a hearty sensation while typing. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Light Sakura caters to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance allows for faster actuation. Thus, for a more responsive experience, the Bsun Light Sakura is the preferable choice, while the Durock POM T1 may be favored by those who appreciate a deeper keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Light Sakura switch excels in creating a quiet and discreet typing experience, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared spaces. Its silent operation ensures that key presses do not interrupt your workflow or distract others nearby. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch produces a more pronounced acoustical response characterized by a clean, sharp clack that resonates pleasantly when typing. This resonant quality offers a higher-pitched sound profile, adding an immersive auditory experience that can be both satisfying and energizing, perfectly suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during typing.
When discussing feel, the Light Sakura showcases an ultra-light touch that promotes comfort during extended typing sessions, designed for users who prioritize a gentle, fatigue-reducing experience. This light and smooth actuation makes it less physically demanding, allowing for prolonged use without discomfort. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its sharp tactile feedback, delivering a pronounced and crisp tactile bump that distinctly signals each key press. This switch also features an invigorating feel enhanced by a snappy responsiveness, providing a more interactive and lively typing experience. The tactile feedback is accentuated without being overwhelming, striking a balance for those who appreciate both tactility and comfortable usage.
In conclusion, the Bsun Light Sakura and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches cater to markedly different preferences in both sound and feel. The Light Sakura is ideal for users seeking a quiet, comfortable experience, perfect for less disruptive environments, whereas the POM T1 offers a highly tactile and uplifting auditory and physical feedback, great for those who crave an engaging typing sensation. While they cater to different needs, both switches can provide satisfying results depending on your personal preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, your personal preferences and typing environment will play a crucial role. If you prioritize a lightweight, silent typing experience that allows for long hours of comfortable use without causing noise distractions, the Light Sakura is the ideal choice. Its ultra-light feel and quiet operation make it perfect for professional settings or shared spaces where discretion is essential. Conversely, if you're seeking a switch that delivers a pronounced tactile feedback with a satisfying auditory experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be more suitable for your needs. With its medium-heavy actuation force, sharp tactile response, and resonant sound profile, this switch is designed for enthusiasts who enjoy a more invigorating feel while typing, making it great for both spirited typing sessions and immersive gaming experiences. Ultimately, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound, as well as the environments in which you plan to use the keyboard, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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