Outemu Silver vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silver, a linear switch, to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, it becomes evident that each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Silver is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a preferred choice for gamers and those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its maximum tactility, providing users with a distinct and satisfying tactile feedback with each press. While the Silver is categorized as a linear switch, offering a straightforward typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is described as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, appealing to those who seek a more pronounced feel when typing. 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
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
The Outemu Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, perfect for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the POM T1's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, ideal for users looking for a more subtle typing experience. While the top housing materials differ between the two switches, they both offer a pleasing and unique sound profile tailored to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic material that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile that some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the POM T1's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, aligning with the overall sound profile of the switch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their bottom housing materials, showcasing the importance of the materials used in different parts of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silver and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, while the POM T1's POM top housing delivers a deep and muted sound. Both switches have bottom housing materials that enhance the overall sound profile, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials tailored to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that the Outemu Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the POM T1's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Silver at 65 grams and the POM T1 at 67 grams, making them both medium-heavy in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Outemu Silver may be the better choice. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the slightly heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 may be more suitable. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these switches offer varying typing experiences to cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, both offer a consistent travel distance that provides a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Silver with its linear feel or the POM T1 (Sunflower) with its tactile feedback, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of these switches contributes to their responsiveness and performance, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for being quiet and having a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is described as resonant, with a higher-pitched sound profile that offers an immersive auditory experience. The sharp tactility of the POM T1 may result in a slightly louder typing experience compared to the smooth linear action of the Silver switch. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, Outemu Silver linear switches offer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, making them ideal for fast typists or gamers who prefer a linear response. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its sharp, accented, and invigorating tactility, providing a satisfying feedback with every keypress. This distinct tactile bump of the Sunflower switch enhances typing accuracy and can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile response during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, the POM T1 switch delivers a resonant sound profile accompanied by a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference and typing style, newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing aesthetic and feel. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be affected by other factors such as keycap materials, keyboard layout, and typing speed.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Silver switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking maximum tactility and a sharp tactile bump with a bottom out force of 67 grams, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is the way to go. Additionally, if you enjoy a resonant and immersive auditory experience while typing, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch may be more appealing to you compared to the neutral sound profile of the Silver switch. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
