Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g provide distinctly different tactile experiences tailored to varied typing preferences. The Durock POM T1 is recognized for its pronounced tactile feedback, delivering a sharp and invigorating response with each keypress, ideal for those who thrive on a punchy feel and enjoy the satisfying auditory feedback of a clean clack. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g caters to users seeking tranquility in their typing environment; these linear switches are designed for whisper-quiet operation, making them perfect for light typists or those who work in shared spaces. With an ultra-light bottom out force of just 43 grams, the Silent Sakura offers a gentle touch without sacrificing performance. While both switches cater to specific needs—maximal tactility versus serene silence—each has unique attributes that may resonate differently with typists. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, one can note key differences that influence the overall sound profile of each switch. The Sunflower utilizes a POM top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deep, pleasing, and relatively muted sound. This characteristic is attributed to the POM material's density and unique acoustic properties, which work together to create a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, a classic choice recognized for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer plastic nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory output, which, while also pleasant, differs from the muted depth of the POM T1.
Examining the bottom housing of both switches reveals further contrasts. The Durock POM T1 incorporates a POM bottom housing that extends the deep, muted sound characteristics established by its top half, creating a cohesive auditory experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Silent Sakura employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, introducing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's increased stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance within the switch. As a result, while the POM T1 offers a harmonized deep sound, the Silent Sakura provides a differentiated auditory experience with its crisper tones, demonstrating how the materials impact the overall sound and feel when typing.
Despite these differences in materials, both switches can achieve similar results in terms of user satisfaction due to their respective designs. The combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch can be viewed as balancing each other out. For instance, while the POM T1 combines its muted characteristics top and bottom for uniformity, the Silent Sakura uses the architectural strengths of nylon and polycarbonate, where the nylon contributes to the softness and bottom-out feel, and the polycarbonate enhances sound clarity on release. Thus, even though the housing materials differ, the overall typing experience can still provide enjoyable and desirable outcomes for users, appealing to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The POM T1's actuation force is unknown, while its bottom out force is measured at 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy pressing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, offering a more effortless typing experience suitable for prolonged use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. Conversely, the POM T1, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial tactile feedback that might appeal to those who prefer a firmer keystroke. In summary, users seeking a light touch should opt for the Silent Sakura, while those looking for a heavier, more pronounced push will be drawn to the Durock POM T1.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, both switches share the same measurement, with a travel distance of 4 mm each. This means that users will experience identical keypress depth, resulting in similar tactile feedback and responsiveness when pressing down on either switch. Consequently, if you're looking for a consistent feel across different setups, both the Durock POM T1 and the Silent Sakura will provide similar results in terms of 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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g 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) is characterized by its resonant and clean clack, offering a higher-pitched sound profile that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This makes it particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a lively acoustic feedback with each keystroke. The neutral aspect of its sound profile allows for versatile use in different environments, whether at home or in an office setting. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is crafted for a near-silent typing experience, resembling the gentle sound of raindrops, which would be ideal for quieter settings such as shared workspaces or during late-night sessions. The comparison highlights that while the POM T1 provides an engaging auditory experience, the Silent Sakura focuses on tranquility, allowing both switches to cater to different user preferences.
In terms of feel, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a sharp, snappy, and invigorating tactile experience. Its pronounced feedback is a hallmark of its design, ensuring that users can distinctly feel each actuation, thanks to its responsive build and the prominent tactile bump. This can create a highly engaging typing experience that many users find satisfying and energizing. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g is less defined in this context, as it is designed to be light and smooth without a pronounced tactile bump. This setup might be preferred by users who favor a more subtle typing experience that allows for rapid and fluid typing without the additional feedback of a tactile switch.
Overall, both switches cater to different typing experiences, making them suitable for varied user preferences. The Durock POM T1 is ideal for those seeking an engaging, tactile, and resonant feedback, enhancing the typing experience with its sharp and snappy characteristics. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g emphasizes silence and subtlety, making it perfect for users who need a quieter environment without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, allowing enthusiasts to choose the one that best fits their typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g should depend largely on your typing preferences and environment. If you crave a typing experience that is rich in tactility and sound, the POM T1 is your go-to switch. Its sharp, invigorating feedback and resonant sound profile create an engaging atmosphere that can make typing feel incredibly satisfying. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile sensations of each keystroke and don't mind a bit of auditory flair, making it suitable for environments where you can freely express your typing style, whether at home or in a less restrictive office setting. Conversely, if you prioritize a serene, quiet workspace or if your typing style leans towards the lighter side, the Silent Sakura - 43g would be more fitting. These switches offer a gentle yet responsive experience, perfect for avoiding distractions in shared spaces or during late-night working sessions, thanks to their incredibly light actuation force. In essence, your choice should reflect not only your tactile and auditory preferences but also the environments where you intend to use your mechanical keyboard.
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