Outemu Brown vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Brown and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a subtle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch excels in maximum tactility, offering a more pronounced and sharp tactile bump for those seeking a punchier typing experience. While the Brown switch is categorized as a standard tactile switch, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making it suitable for different types of 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
53g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Brown and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in terms of their characteristics and sound profiles. The Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) comes with a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles, albeit with different tones and levels of resonance.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Brown utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM bottom housing that also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. While both switches offer a unique sound experience, the choice between nylon and POM bottom housings can impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of the switch.
In summary, both the Outemu Brown and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Brown creates a sharp and clear sound, while the POM top housing of the POM T1 produces a deeper and more muted tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Brown and the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 contribute to their respective sound profiles, providing a fuller typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has an actuation force of an unknown amount and a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. In terms of weight, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. Some users may prefer the Outemu Brown for its slightly lighter actuation force, which can be more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the Durock POM T1 for its heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of key travel. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth. Therefore, whether you choose the Outemu Brown or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Brown switch is known for its lack of distinctive sound profile, making it a quieter option for those looking for a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as resonant, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. This means that while typing on the POM T1 switch, users can expect a more pronounced and satisfying sound compared to the Brown switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch is known for its subtle tactile bump, providing a gentler typing experience without being too overwhelming. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as sharp, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the POM T1 switch is also highlighted as snappy and invigorating, providing a reactive and immersive typing sensation that enhances the overall tactile feedback during use. This means that users looking for a more intense and responsive typing experience may prefer the POM T1 switch over the Brown switch.
Overall, the Outemu Brown switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brown switch provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience, the POM T1 switch delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback and a sharper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel during typing. However, both switches are reliable options that can enhance the overall typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Brown tactile switch or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactility and sound. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile bump, the Outemu Brown may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a more pronounced tactile bump and a higher-pitched clicky sound, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may be the switch that suits your preferences best. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, so it is important to consider what specific characteristics matter most to you when making your decision.
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