Cherry MX Black vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), enthusiasts are presented with contrasting options to suit their typing preferences. The Cherry MX Black, renowned for its linear nature, has been further refined by Cherry through their innovative Hyperglide tooling. This results in a textured smoothness that feels familiar and satisfying, accompanied by a deep sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff, these switches offer a classic typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) caters to those seeking maximum tactility. In comparison to the MX Black, these switches provide a punchy sensation with a sharp tactility and a clean clack. Categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, they offer an entirely different typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their housing materials and the resulting sound profiles. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM top housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. Despite these differences, both switches offer a deeper sound profile due to their respective top housings.
In terms of the bottom housings, the MX Black and the POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature nylon materials. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. Consequently, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. However, it is important to note that the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when the user releases the key.
When considering a switch with different top and bottom housings, it is crucial to recognize that the qualities of each housing material will be distributed between the top and the bottom of the switch. Upon pressing down on the switch, the user will primarily experience the characteristics of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the Cherry MX Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may have different top and bottom housing materials, their overall performance and resulting sound profiles can still yield similar results depending on the user's preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Cherry MX Black has a relatively high actuation force of 60 grams, meaning that a substantial amount of pressure is required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Durock POM T1 remains unknown, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black is 80 grams, indicating that the keys must be pushed all the way down with relatively higher force in order to fully register the keystroke. Comparatively, the Durock POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy range.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for extended typing periods and proves beneficial for work keyboards and long gaming sessions. Others, however, appreciate a heavier actuation force that provides a more substantial typing experience. For those seeking a heavier force, the Cherry MX Black would be a suitable choice with its noteworthily heavy actuation force. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 may offer a more balanced option with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Since no specific details are provided for the actuation force of the Durock POM T1, it is difficult to draw an exact comparison in terms of actuation force between the two switches. Nevertheless, individuals seeking similar results to the Cherry MX Black's heavy actuation force may find satisfaction with the Durock POM T1's relatively high bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm distance. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback, making them suitable for typing and gaming purposes. While their travel distances may be the same, it is important to note that the Cherry MX Black is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent key press without any tactile bump, while the Durock POM T1 offers a tactile bump to provide users with a more pronounced feedback during key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a familiar deep sound when typing. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch has a resonant sound profile with a higher pitch. It provides a clean and sharp sound, giving an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch is stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as sharp, providing a high feedback intensity. Its strong and crisp tactile bump is prominent with each keypress. It is also considered as an accented switch, offering a medium level of tactility, neither overwhelming nor subtle. Moreover, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is snappy and invigorating, creating a responsive and immersive typing sensation.
Considering the available information, the Cherry MX Black and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The MX Black switch provides a low-pitched sound with a textured and stiff feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant sound with a clean and sharp profile, accompanied by a sharp and accented tactile feel. Both switches deliver unique experiences that cater to different preferences. If you desire a smooth and mellow typing experience with a deep sound, the MX Black would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you seek maximum tactility with a sharp sound and invigorating feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch would be the ideal option. However, it's important to consider personal preferences, as well as the influence of other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, to ensure the best possible experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavier switch with a deep sound profile and textured feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a classic smoothness and a low-pitched sound, making them ideal for those who prefer a bass-heavy and mellow typing experience. On the other hand, if you value maximum tactility and a sharp, clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the better choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force and a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile, these switches provide a satisfying tactile bump and an immersive auditory experience. The POM T1 (Sunflower) also offers a variety of descriptors such as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, indicating its versatility and ability to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Cherry MX Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) will depend on your personal preference for weight, sound, and feel.
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