Bsun Olive vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Olive and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are two highly sought-after tactile mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features and benefits to enhance the typing experience. The Olive switches stand out for their all-POM housings, delivering a resonant, deep sound that adds to the satisfaction of typing. With pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out, these medium-weight switches offer a tactile feel that is both invigorating and snappy. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its maximum tactility, providing a sharp tactility and clean clack that enhances the typing sensation. Categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, these switches offer a different typing experience compared to the Olive switches. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are both made from POM, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent sound experience from both switches, making them a reliable choice for those looking for a specific auditory feedback in their mechanical keyboards. However, while both switches use POM material for their housing, the design and construction of the housings may vary, leading to potential differences in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of the top housing, both the Bsun Olive and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) share the characteristic of creating a deep and muted sound profile. However, slight variations in the design and thickness of the housing material could potentially lead to subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on these switches. It is important to note that the top housing of a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound profile, especially when the key is released, so these differences could be more noticeable during regular use.
Similarly, the bottom housing of both switches is made of POM, emphasizing the deep and muted sound profile that POM material is known for. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, which can affect the typing experience for users. Differences in the construction and design of the bottom housing between the Bsun Olive and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may result in subtle variations in typing feel and sound feedback, making it important for users to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, while both switches share the same housing material, small design differences could lead to unique typing experiences for users.
Weight
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in terms of force required for typing. In comparison, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. While the actuation force of the Olive is known and lighter than the bottom out force, the actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown. However, both switches provide a substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether to choose the Olive for its known actuation force or the POM T1 for its slightly higher bottom out force depends on personal preference for typing feedback and force required.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Durock POM T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Olive. A 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Bsun Olive for faster response times, especially in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress may lean towards the Durock POM T1 for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 BSUN Olive tactile switch is best described as delivering a resonant, deep sound that provides a unique auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its clean and sharp clack, offering a punchy sound profile that emphasizes tactility. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Olive providing a deeper resonant tone compared to the Sunflower's sharper clack.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Olive tactile switch offers a tangible typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp, sharp bottom-out. Described as accented and invigorating, the Olive switch provides a satisfying level of tactility that is prominent yet not overwhelming. The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its sharp tactile bump and snappy feel, offering a responsive and immersive typing sensation. Both switches showcase enhanced tactility, with the Olive emphasizing feedback intensity and the Sunflower highlighting responsiveness and reactive feel.
Overall, both the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. Whether you prefer a resonant and deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback like the Olive, or a punchy and sharp clack with strong tactile bump like the Sunflower, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Bsun Olive switch if you are looking for a medium-weight switch with pronounced tactile feedback and a resonant, deep sound. The unique design and long pole stem of the Olive switch offer a satisfying typing experience with a sharp bottom-out. On the other hand, opt for the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch if you prefer maximum tactility and a clean clack sound. The Sunflower switch provides sharp tactility and a satisfying auditory experience that is punchy and immersive. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.