Durock Medium Tactile vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile 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, two popular options worth considering are the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Medium Tactile is known for its unique flavor of tactility, striking a balance between a pronounced tactile bump and a jelly-like sound signature. Its accented, stepped, mild, and polished characteristics make it a popular choice among users. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers maximum tactility, providing a sharp and satisfying tactile bump accompanied by a clean clack. Its resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating attributes make it an enticing option for those seeking a vibrant typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of these switches to help you make the best choice for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Medium Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a higher-pitched sound that is ideal for users who prefer a more resonant and clear typing experience. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) boasts a POM top housing, which produces a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This makes it suitable for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a softer and mellower sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon housing, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) incorporates a POM bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Medium Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) also creates a deep and muted sound profile. While both bottom housings offer similar characteristics in terms of sound, they differ in terms of the specific sound qualities they bring to the typing experience.
Overall, although the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ, they both provide unique and pleasing sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile and the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect to achieve satisfying sound characteristics, albeit with slightly different nuances.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is important to note that the specific force values are unavailable for both switches. However, it can be inferred that both switches have similar actuation forces due to the lack of specified values. In terms of bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range.
Weight can be a significant factor to consider when choosing between these switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, which is beneficial for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions, either switch would provide similar results since the actuation forces are likely to be comparable. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch due to its slightly heavier bottom out force.
In summary, while both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switches have unknown actuation forces, they are likely to deliver similar results in terms of actuation force. However, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch does have a slightly heavier bottom out force, making it the choice for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar sensation as the distance traveled by the switches is identical. Whether you choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its balanced and pronounced tactility, creating a satisfying typing experience. It also has a jelly-like sound signature, although specific details about the sound profile are not provided. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers maximum tactility, providing a sharp and clean clack when typing. In terms of sound, the POM T1 is described as either resonant, with a higher-pitched sound profile, or neutral, with a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. The sound of both switches is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Durock Medium Tactile is described using several descriptors. It is referred to as accented, implying a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and stepped, meaning it has two stages and some pre-travel or post-travel can be felt. It is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users, and polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is also described as accented, sharing the same level of tactility as the Medium Tactile. Additionally, it is referred to as sharp, with a high feedback intensity and a distinct tactile bump felt with each keypress. It is also labeled as snappy, suggesting a super responsive typing experience due to longer or dual-staged springs. Lastly, it is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation.
Based on the available information, the Medium Tactile and POM T1 (Sunflower) switches have similar qualities in terms of tactility, with both being described as accented. However, the POM T1 seems to have a sharper and more distinct tactile bump, and it offers a snappier and more invigorating feel compared to the Medium Tactile. The sound profiles of both switches vary, with the Medium Tactile having a jelly-like sound signature and the POM T1 being either resonant or neutral. It is important to note that personal preferences, along with the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, will also play a role in the overall experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility and a clean clack sound profile, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch of choice. It has a bottom out force of 67 grams and provides a sharp tactility that is accompanied by a resonant, higher-pitched sound. Additionally, if you value a snappy and reactive feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) with its invigorating characteristics would be suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.
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