Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Quinn. The POM T1 (Sunflower) is renowned for its maximum tactility, delivering a punchy switch that provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack while typing. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. With each keystroke, users can expect a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to their typing experience. Both switches offer precise and clean tactile feedback, allowing for a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Quinn differ in their housing materials. The POM T1 (Sunflower) features POM top and bottom housings, while the Quinn utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The POM top housing of the Sunflower switch produces a unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Quinn switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In terms of sound when letting go of a key, the impact comes from the top housing, making the POM T1 (Sunflower) likely to provide a different sound experience compared to the Gateron Quinn.
Moving to the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the Sunflower switch mirrors its top housing characteristics, creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is deep and relatively more muted. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Quinn switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Consequently, both the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Quinn are likely to deliver comparable results in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel due to the similarities in their housing materials.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Quinn switches, they each bring distinct qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The POM top housing of the Sunflower switch contributes to a deeper and relatively more muted sound when letting go of a key, compared to the nylon top housing of the Quinn switch that produces a duller and rounder sound. However, when it comes to the bottom housings, which impact the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches are likely to offer similar experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are a few notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the POM T1's force is unavailable, while the Quinn requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Therefore, it is evident that the Quinn has a lighter actuation force compared to the POM T1. Moving on to bottom out force, both switches have a similar force requirement of 67 grams, making them both fall under the medium-heavy category. This means that if you are looking for a substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, either switch would be suitable. However, if weight is a crucial factor for you, the Quinn's lighter actuation force may be more appealing, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on individual preferences, with the POM T1 offering a heavier actuation force and the Quinn providing a lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Quinn has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Quinn.
The 4.0mm travel distance of the POM T1 (Sunflower) is considered more traditional, providing a moderate depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the Quinn is shorter, appealing to gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the Quinn may be the better option for you.
However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper key press and enjoy a more substantial feel, then the longer travel distance of the POM T1 (Sunflower) might be more suitable for your preferences.
Overall, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Quinn have different travel distances, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on your individual preferences.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is best described as having a resonant and clean sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is sharp and satisfying, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch offers a bassy and clacky sound profile. With each keystroke, users are greeted with a deeper and richer sound resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches provide unique sound profiles, with the POM T1 having a higher-pitched and resonant sound, while the Quinn offers a deeper and richer profile.
Moving on to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its sharp and invigorating tactile feel. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each and every keypress. They offer pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a snappy and bouncy feel. These switches are super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. They also provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, with the POM T1 having a sharper and more intense feedback, while the Quinn delivers a snappy and bouncy feel.
In conclusion, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The POM T1 provides a resonant and clean sound profile, with a sharp and invigorating tactile feel. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a bassy and clacky sound profile, with a snappy and bouncy tactile feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the switch that suits your desired typing experience. However, it is important to note that the ultimate sound and feel of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Nevertheless, both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if maximum tactility is what you are after, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a sharp and satisfying clean clack, providing a distinct tactile bump with each keystroke. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a resonant sound profile, resulting in a clean and sharp higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound, then the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the perfect fit. The Quinn switches provide a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive low-pitched or bassy sound profile. Furthermore, the Quinn switches offer a polished and bouncy feel, with smooth key travel and a spring-like feedback sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your preference for tactility and sound, with the POM T1 (Sunflower) delivering maximum tactility and a resonant sound, and the Quinn offering a crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound with a polished and bouncy feel.
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