Durock Mamba vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba 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 to consider are the Durock Mamba and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Mamba, a linear switch, is often praised for its smooth typing experience and pleasing sound, making it a top choice for those seeking a satisfying and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that boasts maximum tactility, offering a distinct and noticeable tactile feedback with each keystroke, accompanied by a clean and satisfying clack sound. While these generalities provide a good starting point, let's delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to determine which one suits your preferences and typing style best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Mamba and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. Both switches utilize POM (polyoxymethylene) in their housing, which creates a pleasing and distinctive sound. However, there are subtle differences between the two.
The Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a sound profile that is described as pleasant and slightly brighter. This suggests that the Mamba may have a crisper and more lively sound when keys are released. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a deeper and relatively more muted sound due to its POM top housing. This implies that when keys are released on the POM T1, the sound may have a softer and more soothing quality.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize POM. POM is known for creating a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Therefore, both the Mamba and the POM T1 (Sunflower) should exhibit similar bottom-out sounds and feels, as the impact on these aspects of the switch comes from the bottom housing.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may have slight differences, they both contribute to a pleasant and unique sound profile. The Mamba's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing provides a slightly brighter sound, while the POM T1's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. However, since both switches share a POM bottom housing, the bottom-out sound and feel should be similar in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the specific gram amount for both switches is unavailable. However, it can be assumed that they both fall within a similar range since they are categorized as medium forces.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Durock Mamba linear switch requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, which can be considered as medium. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This indicates that the POM T1 switch would provide a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience compared to the Mamba switch.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue. In this case, both switches could potentially meet this requirement since their actuation forces are unknown, but assumed to be within a similar range.
However, for those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch would be the better option due to its higher bottom out force. This increased force requirement could provide a satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a more pronounced keypress.
In conclusion, while the specific actuation forces of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch are unknown, their bottom out forces differ, with the POM T1 switch being slightly heavier. Consequently, the POM T1 switch would provide a firmer and more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. However, if the desire is for a lighter switch, both options could potentially offer similar results, although this cannot be confirmed without specific information on the actuation forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which is 4 mm. 4.0 mm is the more traditional travel distance, while 3.5 mm falls on the shorter side. Gamers often favor shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Mamba a potential choice for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the longer travel distance of the POM T1 switch for a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing requirements.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, at home or at work, this switch is suitable for most intents and purposes. However, what sets the Mamba apart in terms of sound is its thocky characteristic. When pressed, the Mamba produces a deep and rich sound, reminiscent of a satisfying thud or a soft knock. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant sound profile. This switch offers a higher-pitched sound that provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound profile of the POM T1 (Sunflower) is clean and sharp, giving a satisfying clean clack. Overall, both switches have a moderate sound profile due to their neutral characteristics, but the Mamba excels in its thocky quality while the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a resonant experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a mild typing experience. This switch falls in the safe middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics, providing a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Mamba possesses a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers sharp tactility. With a strong and crisp tactile bump, each and every keypress can be distinctly felt. This switch can be described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is snappy, boasting super responsiveness thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. The combination of pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, snappy and reactive feel, creates an invigorating typing sensation. Overall, the Mamba offers a mild and polished feel, whereas the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating experience.
In conclusion, the Durock Mamba linear switch excels in its thocky sound profile and offers a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant sound profile and a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating typing experience. While the Mamba is more focused on a rich auditory experience and a gliding typing sensation, the POM T1 (Sunflower) prioritizes maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack. Both switches have a moderate sound profile and actuation force, making them suitable for most users. Whether you prefer the creamy sound and gentle feel of the Mamba or the clean clack and sharp tactility of the POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences with these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style.
If you value a smooth and gliding typing experience with a rich and creamy auditory feedback, the Mamba linear switch is a great option. It has a moderate bottom out force of 60 grams, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound profile of the Mamba can be described as neutral or thocky, offering a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed.
On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you are after, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch provides a sharp and prominent tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The sound profile of the POM T1 is described as resonant and neutral, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience.
Both switches have their own unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a polished finish, the Mamba switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a highly tactile switch with a snappy and invigorating feel, the POM T1 is the switch for you. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of feedback when making your decision.
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