Outemu Silent Grey vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is a great option to consider. The pronounced bump and smooth keystroke make it satisfying to use, especially for those who prefer a silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is ideal for those who prioritize maximum tactility in their keyboards. With sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Silent Grey features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) uses a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housings offer distinct sound profiles, the bottom housings of both switches complement these differences. The Silent Grey's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the T1 contributes to its unique sound profile with a deeper and more muted tone. Overall, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings in each switch leads to a varied and dynamic sound experience.
When it comes to aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silent Grey offers a translucent quality that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) does not provide the same level of translucency but still imparts a unique look to the switch. In terms of sound output, the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Silent Grey creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer POM material in the T1 results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences based on the materials used in their housing components.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Grey and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both aim to provide a unique sound profile for keyboard enthusiasts. The polycarbonate and nylon combination in the Silent Grey results in a sharper and deeper sound profile, while the POM materials used in the T1 create a more muted and pleasing sound. Despite the differences in material composition, both switches offer high-quality sound experiences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 65-67 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Outemu Silent Grey more comfortable for extended periods of typing or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) for a stronger typing experience. In terms of actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer similar results despite the slight difference in actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The tactile feedback and actuation force may differ between the two switches, but in terms of travel distance, they offer the same experience. Regardless of the differences in other features, users can count on a consistent travel distance when using either the Outemu Silent Grey or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch.
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 Silent Grey 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 Silent Grey switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch has a resonant sound profile, offering a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound a switch produces can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a smooth and tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump. In comparison, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as sharp and crisp, providing a strong tactile bump with each keypress. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is also noted for its snappy and invigorating feel, creating a responsive and immersive typing sensation. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, allowing users to feel more connected to their keyboards.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Grey and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Silent Grey switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp and punchy tactile feedback. Whether you choose one over the other will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a quiet typing experience with a smooth keystroke and pronounced bump, the Outemu Silent Grey is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility with a sharp, clean clack and strong tactile feedback, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience or a punchy and highly tactile one. Happy typing!
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