Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that you might consider are the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch. The POM T1 is renowned for its maximum tactility, making it a great choice for those who crave a punchy switch. Typing on these switches delivers a sharp tactility and a satisfying, clean clack. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon showcases the beauty of a linear switch. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience. While both switches have their own unique qualities, let's delve further into their specifics so you can make an informed decision on which switch is best suited for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affects their sound profiles. The POM T1 (Sunflower) features POM top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and muted sound. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon has a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound profile. The use of clear polycarbonate in the Sea Salt Lemon also makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. Therefore, those seeking a deeper and more muted sound may prefer the POM T1 (Sunflower), while those desiring a sharper and higher-pitched sound with RGB lighting capabilities may lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon.
In terms of bottom housings, the contrast between the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Sea Salt Lemon continues. The POM T1 (Sunflower) retains its POM bottom housing, contributing to its deep and muted sound profile. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, individuals seeking a deeper and fuller sound experience may find the Sea Salt Lemon more appealing, while those who prefer a more muted sound might favor the POM T1 (Sunflower).
While the housing materials of the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Sea Salt Lemon differ, it is worth noting that both switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles. Regardless of the material used, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. So, while the specific sound qualities may vary, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences. Whether one prefers the deeper and muted sound of the POM T1 (Sunflower) or the sharper and crisper sound of the Sea Salt Lemon, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are notable differences in weight. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the POM T1.
In terms of bottom out force, the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is medium-light. This indicates that the POM T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon offers a slightly lighter bottom out force for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of the Sea Salt Lemon, as it allows for longer typing sessions without excessive fatigue. This makes it suitable for tasks like typing at work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the POM T1 with its heavier actuation force and bottom out force.
In summary, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The POM T1 offers a heavier push feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a lighter keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier touch when typing.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch are equal, both measuring a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, regardless of whether one chooses the POM T1 (Sunflower) or the Sea Salt Lemon switch, they can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key. Interestingly, both switches offer the same travel distance, ensuring a consistent tactile experience for users.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its resonant profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have a moderate sound profile overall, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is characterized by its sharp and accented tactile feedback. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress, providing a high feedback intensity. Additionally, it is described as snappy and invigorating, offering a super responsive and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild tactile experience, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users.
Based on the available information, both switches offer unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and mellow sound, the Sea Salt Lemon switch would be a great option. However, it's important to consider individual preferences, as well as other factors such as typing style, desired actuation force, and personal typing experience. Ultimately, with either switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience, whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If maximum tactility is what you are after, then the POM T1 switch is for you. With its sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack, it provides a punchy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is a lovely representation of a linear switch. Its progressive spring and dry-lube design offer a smooth feel while typing.
In terms of sound, the POM T1 switch has a resonant sound profile, with higher-pitched tones that create an immersive auditory experience. The Sea Salt Lemon switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
When it comes to feel, the POM T1 switch offers sharp and accented tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. It is a snappy and invigorating switch that provides an immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone.
Overall, if you prioritize maximum tactility and a sharp typing experience, the Durock POM T1 switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch would be the ideal option. Consider your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel when making your decision. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
