Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offer distinct experiences suited to different typing preferences. The POM T1 is designed for those who crave maximum tactility; its punchy feedback and sharp, accented feel provide a gratifying typing experience, complete with a clean clack that resonates with every keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie focuses on delivering a smooth and consistent keystroke, characterized by its thocky sound profile and medium-weight build, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate fluidity and a more subdued typing sound. Both switches have unique qualities catering to varying tastes—whether it's the invigorating tactile response of the POM T1 or the exceptional smoothness of the Sea Salt Smoothie. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, it is clear that both switches utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice is particularly significant because POM is known for its ability to create an exceptionally pleasing and unique sound profile. Both switches feature a deeper and relatively muted sound, leading to a similar auditory experience when typing or gaming. This commonality suggests that users will enjoy a comparable acoustic signature from both switches, contributing to a satisfying feel and sound during use.
In terms of performance and user experience, the POM housings of both the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Sea Salt Smoothie promise to deliver a consistent quality. While both switches share the same sound profile characteristics due to their identical housing materials, the tactile feel may still vary based on other internal components, such as the spring or stem. However, since both switches have their top housing constructed from POM, users can expect similar feedback and sound when releasing a key. This emphasizes the importance of the top housing in defining the sound upon release, as both models yield a broader, more muted tone due to the properties of POM.
Ultimately, while both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie utilize the same POM material for their constructions, the overall user experience could still be influenced by other factors beyond housing materials. Nonetheless, the similarities in sound and feel provided by the POM housings promise that users will achieve a comparable result in the auditory and tactile experience when using either switch. Thus, enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile should feel assured that regardless of which switch they choose, they will enjoy a deep and pleasing sound that is characteristic of POM housings.
Weight
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch exhibit contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, classified as medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie features a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, while its bottom out force remains unspecified. This means that the Sea Salt Smoothie will provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue, perfect for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, the POM T1, while heavier in terms of bottom out force, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. As the actuation force of the POM T1 is not provided, it is difficult to draw direct comparisons in that aspect, but it can be inferred that with its heavier bottom out force, it would likely offer a firmer feedback once a key is fully pressed. Overall, if a user is looking for a switch that requires less effort to actuate, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be the ideal choice, whereas the POM T1 would cater to those who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there is a distinct difference between the two. The POM T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and provides a more pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This shorter travel may appeal to gamers who favor faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. However, for users who enjoy a deeper feel and a more substantial actuation depth, the POM T1's longer travel distance may be the more satisfying choice. Thus, while both switches offer distinct characteristics that suit different preferences, the POM T1 is the longer option at 4 mm, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie is the shorter one at 3.7 mm.
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 Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 is known for its resonant characteristics, producing a clean and sharp auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. The higher-pitched clack contributes to an immersive auditory environment, making each keystroke feel both fulfilling and sharp. This resonance can elevate the overall typing soundscape, making it particularly suited for those who seek an engaging auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, although not explicitly detailed, is expected to deliver a "thocky" sound profile, which suggests a deeper, more muted sound compared to the brighter pitches of the POM T1. This means that the Sea Salt Smoothie would produce a sound that is rich and satisfying but likely lacks the same sharpness, focusing instead on delivering a smooth and cohesive audio presence during use.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is articulated by its sharp tactile feedback, providing a pronounced and distinct bump that ensures each keypress is felt with clarity. The snappy response from the switch adds to an invigorating experience, making it suitable for rapid typing without losing feedback precision. The tactile nature of the POM T1 combines with its invigorating characteristics to create a typing experience that is both reactive and immersive, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a vibrant tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie, lacking specific descriptors in this regard, hints at a smoothness that prioritizes ease of travel over tactile feedback. Linear switches like the Sea Salt Smoothie generally offer a softer touch, promoting uninterrupted key presses and a fluid typing experience without the tactile bump found in the POM T1.
In conclusion, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is ideal for those who appreciate pronounced tactile feedback and a resonant sound, providing a sharp and engaging typing experience. Conversely, if you lean towards a smoother, more subdued auditory experience, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie may suit you better. While the POM T1 offers a dynamic and tactile approach, the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a quieter and seamless typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile response and auditory sharpness or smoothness and muted sound in your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you find yourself gravitating towards a typing experience that emphasizes tactile feedback, the POM T1 is an excellent choice. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams and a satisfying sharp tactility paired with a clean clack sound, this switch caters to typists who appreciate pronounced tactile bumps and a resonant audio feedback. It’s perfect for use in environments where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly, making it well-suited for both writing and gaming scenarios that require precise inputs. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother experience with a softer sound profile, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch is likely the way to go. Aimed at those who enjoy effortless key presses without the distraction of tactile feedback, this switch offers a thocky sound profile coupled with exceptional smoothness, making it ideal for long typing sessions, programming, or gaming where rapid key presses are frequent and tactile feedback is less critical. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize tactile sensations or a seamless, fluid typing experience.
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