Cherry MX Red vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch perfect for those seeking maximum tactility, featuring a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack while typing. While the Cherry MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the POM T1 (Sunflower) is identified as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), both switches feature top housings made of different materials. The MX Red uses a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon. While both materials aim to enhance the sound profile of the switch, they achieve this in distinct ways.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Cherry MX Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) also differ in material. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its nylon top housing. In comparison, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) also adds to the pleasing and unique sound profile of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience with a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the variations in material, both bottom housings aim to provide an enhanced sound profile for the user.
In summary, the Cherry MX Red and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches in distinctive ways. While the MX Red features a nylon top and bottom housing that create a deeper and fuller sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes POM materials for both top and bottom housings to produce a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials, providing users with options based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is heavier with 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Red is not provided. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures a consistent typing experience for users who prefer either switch. However, it is worth noting that while the travel distance is the same for both switches, their overall feel and feedback may vary due to their different switch types (linear vs tactile). Ultimately, whether you choose the Cherry MX Red or the Durock POM T1, you can expect a 4 mm travel distance, providing a familiar typing sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant and neutral sound, featuring a higher-pitched and sharp tone that adds to the typing experience. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that contribute to a satisfying typing sound, with the MX Red leaning towards a deeper tone and the POM T1 offering a cleaner and sharper sound.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, providing a bit of friction when pressed that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is characterized by sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback. This means that the POM T1 switch offers a strong and crisp tactile bump with distinct feedback for each keypress, creating an engaging and responsive typing feel compared to the smoother experience of the MX Red.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different but equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Red provides a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile, the POM T1 offers maximum tactility with a sharper sound and more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience for users looking for either linear or tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smoother typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, then the Cherry MX Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility with a strong and crisp tactile bump, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth or a punchy switch with sharp tactility and clean clack. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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