Gazzew LT vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT 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, there are various factors to consider, such as the type of switch, the sound it produces, and the tactile feedback it provides. Two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gazzew LT and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Gazzew LT, a linear switch, is best known for its enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant "thockiness" it offers while typing. With a seamless glide accompanying every keystroke, the LTs provide a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1, a tactile switch, is perfect for those who seek maximum tactility. Typing on these switches offers a sharp and satisfying clean clack, giving users a distinct tactile feedback. While these general descriptions can help guide you, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This blend delivers a rich and deep sound when pressing down on a key, offering a soft and pleasing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes POM top and bottom housing, resulting in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The POM housing creates a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. While both switches provide a distinctly different sound experience, their similar depth in sound showcases the high-quality housing materials used.
When considering the impact of the separate top and bottom housings of these switches, it becomes evident how each material contributes to the overall experience. The bottom housing, being responsible for the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, exhibits the qualities of the respective housing material. The Gazzew LT's softness due to its "boba plastic" blend results in a rich and deep bottom-out sound, emphasizing its sound profile. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a muted and deeper sound, contributing to the switch's unique sound signature. This showcases the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall sound experience.
Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound emitted when releasing a key. For the Gazzew LT, the proprietary blend of the top housing contributes to the soft and rich sound profile experienced when letting go of a key. Similarly, the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) enhances the deeper and more muted sound when releasing a key. While different in terms of sound, the top housing materials of both switches ultimately impact the sound produced upon key release, further highlighting the unique qualities of each switch.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) provide distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend delivers a rich and deep sound, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a unique, deeper, and relatively more muted sound. Although they differ in sound, both switches demonstrate the importance of their respective housing materials in creating a high-quality typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while different, users can expect similar level of quality and attention to detail in the design of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the specific gram measurement is unavailable for both switches, making it difficult to compare them directly. However, we can assume that they are relatively similar, as both switches fall within the medium-heavy category for bottom out force.
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This slight difference suggests that the POM T1 switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gazzew LT linear switch may be more suitable as it offers a lower bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch more appealing. With its slightly higher bottom out force, it provides a greater sense of resistance and feedback. This can enhance the typing experience for individuals who prefer a heavier switch.
In summary, while the exact actuation force of both switches is unknown, the Gazzew LT linear switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. However, they both fall within the medium-heavy range, offering a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer switches with greater resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the POM T1. The shorter travel distance of the LT can be advantageous for gamers who value faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the POM T1 may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth. Both switches offer their own unique experience, ensuring that users will achieve satisfying results regardless of which option they choose.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch is best described as bassy and thocky. These switches produce a deep, rich sound that resembles a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. The LTs offer a lower-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone that creates an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is resonant and neutral in sound. Typing on these switches results in a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. The POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Overall, if you prefer a deep and rich sound, the LT is the way to go, while the POM T1 provides a clean and sharp sound with a neutral profile.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch does not provide specific information. However, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a range of descriptors to define its feel. It is described as sharp, accentuated, snappy, and invigorating. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, offering a prominent amount of tactility. With longer or dual-staged springs, these switches feel more responsive and alive, delivering an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback. Unfortunately, the LT switches' feel is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The LT switches provide a deep, resonant thockiness with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. They are best suited for those seeking a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer a clean and sharp sound with a higher-pitched tone, making them suitable for a wide range of users. In terms of feel, the POM T1 switches offer a sharp, accentuated, snappy, and invigorating tactile experience, while the feel of the LT switches is unknown. It is important to note that the sound and feel of keyboard switches can be influenced by factors such as the chosen keyboard and keycaps. Overall, depending on your preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a deep, resonant sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch is the way to go. With their enticing lilac hue, these switches offer a seamless glide with every keystroke, while also producing a satisfying "thock" sound. On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you're after, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the better choice. These switches provide a sharp tactile bump and a clean, sharp sound. They are described as invigorating and snappy, offering a pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preference for smoothness and sound (LT) or tactility and feedback (POM T1).
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