Outemu Silent White vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Outemu silent white, a linear switch, and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch. The silent white switch is best known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is all about maximum tactility, offering a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. While the silent white switch is categorized as 'quiet', the POM T1 (Sunflower) falls under categories such as 'resonant,' 'neutral,' 'sharp,' 'accented,' 'snappy,' and 'invigorating.' Each switch has its own unique features and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a clear and resonant sound profile with a sharper, higher-pitched tone. However, while the Silent White's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a deeper and more muted sound profile thanks to its POM top housing. Despite these differences, both switches provide a distinct and pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Silent White features a nylon material while the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes POM for its bottom housing. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the T1 (Sunflower) contributes to a unique and pleasing sound experience, with a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. Both housing materials impact the overall sound of the switch, providing users with a different tactile and auditory experience.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel when typing. The qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two halves of the switch, with the bottom housing having more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. While the Silent White and the POM T1 (Sunflower) offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, albeit with different tones and levels of resonance.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch differ in weight. The Silent White has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the POM T1's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the POM T1 requires a heavier 67 grams to fully press down, while the Silent White requires 60 grams. This means that the POM T1 offers a more substantial typing experience compared to the Silent White. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of force, making them suitable for users who prefer a bit of resistance while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience one is looking for.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Silent White switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the POM T1 switch may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer deeper key presses. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness and typing experience. Ultimately, the travel distance of each switch contributes to the overall typing feel and performance, allowing users to find the switch that best suits their individual needs.
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 White 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 White switch remains relatively unknown in terms of its auditory profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile that can provide an immersive auditory experience. The clean and sharp sound produced by the POM T1 switch adds a satisfying element to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In the realm of tactile feedback, the Outemu Silent White switch lacks a distinct description of its feel. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is highlighted for its sharp tactility and strong tactile bump that is evident with each keypress. Described as accented and snappy, the POM T1 switch offers a medium tactile sensation that is responsive and invigorating, providing users with a tactile typing experience that is both engaging and satisfying.
Considering the available information, while the Outemu Silent White and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both aim to enhance the typing experience for users. Depending on personal preferences for auditory feedback and tactile sensations, individuals can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences. Ultimately, by selecting either switch, users can expect to receive a satisfying and engaging typing experience that meets their specific needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the Silent White switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a punchy tactility, a medium-heavy bottom-out force, and an immersive auditory experience with a sharper sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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