Haimu Orange Sea vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options are the Haimu Orange Sea and the Durock T1, each appealing to different typing styles and preferences. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making them an excellent choice for users who prioritize a seamless experience without any tactile interruptions. In contrast, the Durock T1 switches offer a tactile sensation that many find extremely comfortable, featuring a medium bump during actuation and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, which can enhance the overall typing experience. While the Orange Sea is best suited for those who enjoy fluidity and speed, the T1 caters to those who appreciate feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and the Durock T1 exhibit notable similarities, particularly in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from the use of this material, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Furthermore, both switches incorporate a translucent design, making them highly suitable for RGB lighting applications. This shared characteristic ensures that users can achieve a vibrant aesthetic and consistent auditory experience, regardless of the specific model they choose.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Haimu Orange Sea and the Durock T1 features nylon, a material known for its distinct auditory qualities. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrasts with the stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate, which make the top housing sound sharper. The use of nylon at the bottom promotes a rounder sound when the keys bottom out, providing a noticeably different acoustic experience compared to the top. Together, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in both switches leads to unique sound profiles that are achieved through the specific contributions of each material to the overall typing experience.
When evaluating the impact of differing housing materials, it's important to recognize how they interplay with one another in a switch. With both the Orange Sea and T1 utilizing polycarbonate for their tops and nylon for their bottoms, the resultant typing experience retains a harmonious balance. Users can expect a defined top-out sound due to the polycarbonate, juxtaposed with the softer, more muted bottom-out sound provided by the nylon. This deliberate design ensures consistent results across both models, despite the different brand names. Ultimately, regardless of the choice between Haimu or Durock, users can enjoy a well-rounded auditory experience characterized by both clarity and depth.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Orange Sea features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the T1 switch has an unknown actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This suggests a sturdier feel during typing, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push with each keystroke. The bottom out force of the Orange Sea is measured at 45 grams, which is lighter than the T1's. Thus, while the Orange Sea provides a smoother and less strenuous typing experience, the Durock T1 offers a firmer feedback that some users might prefer for a tactile sensation. Overall, the Orange Sea is the lighter option, ideal for prolonged use, while the T1 is better suited for those who favor a more resistant typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there is a clear difference: the Orange Sea features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that for users who favor responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Orange Sea may be more appealing, allowing for quicker actuation and potentially enhanced gaming performance. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience may find the T1’s longer travel distance of 4.0 mm to be more satisfying, as it offers a deeper key press that many find comforting and robust. The distinction in travel distance highlights the differing preferences between tactile and linear switch users, with the Orange Sea being the shorter option and the Durock T1 providing a more traditional, longer travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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
In terms of sound, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch delivers a neutral sound signature, making it versatile and suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office. The sound is not intrusive, allowing for a comfortable typing experience without drawing attention. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch features a low-pitched tone, reminiscent of rain falling on a window, which adds a pleasant auditory quality to the typing experience. The neutral characteristics of the Orange Sea and the mellowness of the T1 create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, though both maintain a level of subtlety conducive to focused work.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Orange Sea is known for its impeccably smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless key presses without any resistance or unwanted friction. This smoothness is ideal for users who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. In comparison, the Durock T1 offers a tactile experience characterized by a medium-sized bump during actuation. With its stepped and accented tactile nature, the T1 provides a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. Additionally, its polished quality ensures refined key travel, which can enhance the overall typing experience. While the Orange Sea prioritizes smoothness, the T1 balances tactility with comfort, appealing to users who enjoy a more dynamic feel.
Overall, both the Haimu Orange Sea and Durock T1 switches offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Orange Sea is perfect for those seeking a smooth and neutral sound environment, while the T1 caters to tactile switch enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced bump and a comforting auditory quality. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the fluidity of the Orange Sea or the tactile feedback of the T1, both switches will deliver satisfying results depending on your typing style and desired keyboard dynamics.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth typing experience with a light touch, the Haimu Orange Sea is an excellent choice, especially if you're doing a lot of gaming or fast typing where each keystroke can feel effortless and fluid. Its neutral sound signature adds to its versatility, making it suitable for various environments without being distracting. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback with a bit more resistance to your keystrokes, the Durock T1 is likely your best bet. This switch offers a satisfying bump, reminiscent of rain, which makes typing feel comfortable and engaging, particularly during prolonged sessions. The deeper, low-pitched sound adds to the overall typing experience, creating a cozy atmosphere conducive to work or leisure. Thus, whether you're seeking a lightweight, smooth switch for speed or a medium-heavy tactile switch for enhanced feedback, both options cater to different tastes, ensuring that you'll find a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
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