Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Huano Sakura each offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The POM T1 is a tactile switch, celebrated for its pronounced tactility and sharp feedback, producing a satisfying clean clack with each keystroke. It's perfect for typists who crave an engaging typing experience filled with resonant and snappy sensations. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura, a linear switch, delivers a smooth typing experience with a feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an excellent choice for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions without the distraction of tactile bumps or loud sounds. While the POM T1 thrives on a more invigorating and accented feel, the Sakura's ease of travel can be appealing for users who prioritize speed and smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Huano Sakura switches exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to their respective sound profiles and overall user experiences. The POM T1 utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings, which results in a sound that is notably deeper and more muted. This unified material choice in the POM T1 provides a consistent acoustic effect, emphasizing the muted qualities of the POM material. Conversely, the Huano Sakura utilizes a blend of two different materials: POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material lends itself to a smoother operation, thanks to its low coefficient of friction and enhanced durability. However, the nylon bottom housing introduces a softer and rounder sound due to its ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than the harder POM.
When examining the bottom housing, the characteristics of nylon in the Sakura switch become particularly noteworthy. The nylon's softness contributes to a fuller sound profile, enabling a deeper auditory experience when the key is bottomed out. In contrast, the POM bottom housing in the POM T1 maintains the muted sound profile associated with POM, though it holds its own in terms of the overall acoustic performance. The differences in sound resulting from the bottom housing materials might lead to unique typing experiences, with the Sakura offering a louder and punchier output, while the POM T1 maintains a more subdued characteristic. Thus, the interaction between each switch's bottom housing and the key press dynamics results in differentiation in sound and feel.
Overall, while the POM T1 and Huano Sakura features different housing materials, they can still deliver a satisfying typing experience. Users seeking a consistent sound profile may gravitate toward the POM T1, whereas those looking for a smoother and more pronounced acoustic result may prefer the combination of POK and nylon in the Sakura. Both switches can provide enjoyable results, but the experience will largely depend on the user's preferences for sound and tactile feedback. By understanding how the distinct qualities of each material impact sound and feel, keyboard enthusiasts can make informed decisions based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Durock POM T1 does not have a specified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Huano Sakura boasts a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it significantly lighter overall. This stark difference in bottom out forces indicates that while the Durock switch is built for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Huano Sakura caters to those who favor a lighter touch for easier, prolonged use. Ultimately, if the actuation force were to be defined for the Durock POM T1, it could potentially offer similar ease of actuation, but as it stands, the Huano Sakura is the clear choice for lighter keystrokes, great for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressed, the POM T1 offers a deeper and more pronounced feedback, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Sakura's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who seek quicker response times, a preference often favored by gamers for its faster actuation. Therefore, if you prioritize the depth and tactile feedback in your typing or gaming, the Sunflower’s longer travel distance may be the better choice, whereas the shorter distance of the Sakura is more aligned with rapid, efficient input.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch produces a clean and sharp clack, making it resonant in nature. This higher-pitched audio profile creates an immersive typing experience, where each keystroke is distinctly pronounced. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch is characterized by its medium acoustics, designed for a quieter typing experience. While not specifically detailed, this suggests that it might produce a more muted sound overall, suitable for environments where noise control is essential. Therefore, if you prefer a more auditory feedback during typing, the POM T1 will provide that satisfying resonance, while the Sakura offers a genteel approach to sound.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) excels with its sharp tactile bump, delivering high feedback intensity that is felt distinctly with each keystroke. This is complemented by its invigorating and snappy qualities—providing a responsive typing experience that feels alive and engaging. The description of the switch includes elements like accented and invigorating feedback, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile sensation. In contrast, the specific feel qualities of the Huano Sakura linear switch are not outlined in the provided information; thus, the tactile response and sensation during typing remain less defined. It’s safe to infer that the feel of the Sakura is smoother and perhaps lighter, given its emphasis on a feather-light touch, which would contrast with the more pronounced feedback of the POM T1.
Overall, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch stands out for those seeking maximum tactility and a resonant auditory experience, making it a solid option for users who enjoy dynamic feedback in their typing. In contrast, the Huano Sakura linear switch appeals to those valuing a quieter and lighter experience, ideal for extended sessions without the sharp interruptions of more tactile options. Both switches have their unique strengths, and selecting between them ultimately hinges on your preferences for sound and tactile response.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, your specific needs will play a crucial role in your decision. If you prioritize maximum tactility and enjoy a pronounced feedback with a satisfying sharp clack, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is an excellent choice, particularly for typists who appreciate a more engaged and dynamic experience during typing. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it’s ideal for those who prefer a solid feel and can handle a bit more resistance as they type, making it well-suited for both gaming and intensive typing sessions where feedback is vital. Conversely, if your work involves long typing sessions and comfort is key, you might gravitate towards the Huano Sakura linear switch. Its feather-light 45-gram actuation force provides a more effortless typing experience, perfect for extensive use without fatigue. The Sakura’s medium acoustics also make it a fantastic option for office environments, where quieter keystrokes are appreciated. Hence, your ultimate choice boils down to whether you seek a tactile and immersive engagement with each keystroke or a smooth, fatigue-free typing experience over prolonged periods.
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