Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the KTT Semi Mute are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features catered to different preferences. If maximum tactility is what you are after, then the POM T1 is the switch for you. This switch provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches are perfect for individuals who value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. Despite the name, these switches operate silently and feature a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology for a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. While the POM T1 is known for its resonant, sharp, and invigorating qualities, the Semi Mute offers a buttery, mild, and muted typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the KTT Semi Mute, namely POM and polycarbonate, have distinct differences in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics. The POM top housing of the POM T1 creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches intended to utilize RGB lighting. So, while both housing materials offer pleasing qualities, the POM T1's POM top housing and the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing provide contrasting sound profiles.
Similar to the top housing, the bottom housing materials of the POM T1 and the Semi Mute, POM and polycarbonate, respectively, contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The POM bottom housing of the POM T1 delivers a deeper and more muted sound, complementing the top housing's sound profile. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, providing a contrasting auditory experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetics of the switch, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. Thus, just like the top housing, the bottom housing materials of these switches have distinct characteristics that differentiate their sound profiles.
When examining switches that have different top and bottom housing materials, it becomes evident that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, by using different housing materials for the top and bottom, both the POM T1 and the Semi Mute are able to create a combination of unique auditory experiences throughout the pressing and releasing of keys. While the POM T1 offers a more muted and deeper sound through both housing components, the Semi Mute delivers a crisper and sharper sound due to its polycarbonate housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are significant differences to consider. The actuation force of the POM T1 is unavailable in grams, while the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams. This indicates that the Semi Mute requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the POM T1. Moving on to the bottom out force, the POM T1 has a relatively heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Semi Mute has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams. This suggests that the POM T1 provides a more substantial and resistant typing experience when compared to the Semi Mute.
Weight is an important factor for keyboard users as it directly affects typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch will appreciate the lower actuation force of the Semi Mute, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This feature makes it ideal for individuals using their keyboards for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a stronger push and a more tactile typing experience would favor the POM T1. With its heavier bottom out force, it offers a more substantial typing feedback, satisfying the preferences of users who enjoy a heavier switch. It's important to note that while the specific actuation force of the POM T1 is unavailable, the Semi Mute's lighter actuation force may provide a similar experience to the POM T1 in terms of triggering keystrokes. Therefore, comparing the two switches, the POM T1 is the heavier option, providing a stronger typing experience, while the Semi Mute offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. Pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches will result in a similar experience as both switches offer a comparable travel distance.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant and clean clack sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is designed to be completely silent, despite its name. It produces a muted sound, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it ideal for those who value a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night typing sessions. The sound produced by both switches falls within the moderate range, making them suitable for various purposes.
Moving on to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch delivers a sharp and accented tactile feedback. It offers a high feedback intensity with a crisp and prominent tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The switch is also described as snappy and invigorating, offering a super responsive and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The feel of both switches is approachable and falls within the safe middle-ground zone, catering to a wide range of users.
Taking all the available information into account, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is best known for its sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack. It offers a resonant sound profile and a pronounced feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed to be completely silent, providing a noise-free environment. It offers a buttery and mild typing experience, ensuring a smooth and uniform keystroke. Both switches have a moderate sound profile and actuation force, making them suitable for various purposes and user preferences. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you can choose between the maximum tactility and resonant sound of the POM T1 or the noise-free and seamless typing experience of the Semi Mute.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking maximum tactility and enjoy a sharp, clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel that provides a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switches deliver an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Despite their completely silent operation, the Semi Mute switches provide a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology that ensures a pleasant typing experience.
In terms of sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant and clean sound profile, while the Semi Mute switch produces a softer and quieter sound, thanks to its advanced dampening technology.
When it comes to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a sharp and accented tactile experience, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prioritize maximum tactility and a resonant sound with the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, or a noise-free environment and a buttery typing experience with the Semi Mute switch. Both options cater to different needs, so choose the one that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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