Gateron Mini i vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Mini i and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are both tactile switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Gateron Mini i switches provide a gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, making them ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are known for their maximum tactility and satisfying clean clack, perfect for those who prefer a punchy typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that make them appealing to different users. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Mini i utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches boast POM top and bottom housings, which produce a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience due to their housing materials.
While the Mini i and POM T1 (Sunflower) switches share a similar goal of creating a unique sound profile, they achieve it through different housing materials. The nylon housing of the Mini i provides a slightly softer and fuller sound, while the POM housing of the T1 (Sunflower) offers a more muted and deeper sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by absorbing sound and creating a distinct sound profile that sets them apart from traditional switches. Whether you prefer the fuller sound of nylon or the deeper sound of POM, both switches offer a unique typing experience.
In terms of performance, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the nylon housing of the Mini i may provide a slightly softer and rounder sound, the POM housing of the T1 (Sunflower) offers a more muted and unique sound profile. Both switches excel in absorbing sound and creating a distinct typing experience, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prioritize a fuller sound or a deeper sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to users in terms of weight. The Gateron Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) features a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown, but given the heavier bottom out force, it can be assumed to be on the medium to heavy side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time favored by gamers, while the POM T1 provides a deeper key press that may feel more satisfying to some users. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, but the slight difference may be noticeable to those who have preferences for shorter or longer travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral experience with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a variety of settings, whether at home or in a professional office environment. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile that can create a more immersive auditory experience, while still maintaining a moderate overall sound level. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press nature, providing a lively and responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The mild and subtle characteristics of the Mini i switch create a comfortable typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a sharp and accented tactile experience, with a pronounced feedback intensity that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The snappy and invigorating nature of the POM T1 switch adds to the overall typing sensation, creating a more dynamic and tactile feel compared to the Mini i switch.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Mini i switch provides a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, the POM T1 switch offers a resonant sound and a sharp, accented tactile experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more subtle and comfortable typing feel or a sharper and more invigorating typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific environment in which they will be used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a lightweight tactile switch with a subtle and gentle typing experience, the Gateron Mini i would be a great choice for you. These switches are perfect for long hours of comfortable typing in a quiet office environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and punchy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch would be more suitable for you. These switches offer a sharp tactility and a clean clack, providing an immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile, whether you prioritize a more gentle and bouncy typing experience or a sharper and more intense feedback.
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