Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch with maximum tactility, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. Known for its punchy feel and satisfying clean clack, typing on these switches provides a sharp tactility that is sure to enhance your typing experience. Categorized as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating', the POM T1 offers a unique blend of responsiveness and feedback. On the other hand, if you desire a tactile switch that also provides a silenced typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the perfect choice. Ideal for noise-sensitive environments, this switch offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Silent T1 provides a more refined and muted typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) have contrasting top housing materials. The POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a deep and muted sound profile. This material absorbs less sound and produces a more unique and pleasing sound when compared to other plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. It is a stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) maintains the same deep and muted sound profile as its top housing. The use of POM in switch housings creates a distinctive sound that is on the deeper side. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
While the top and bottom housings of the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) have different materials, they both provide unique sound profiles. The bottom housing generally influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the materials used may differ, both switches offer distinct and pleasing sound experiences for their users, providing a variety of options depending on personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is important to note that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.
Weight is often a consideration for keyboard enthusiasts, as it can significantly impact typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or indulge in long gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch, as it offers a stronger push feel. This choice would be better suited for individuals who appreciate a tactile response that requires more force.
In summary, while the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, they share a common bottom out force of 67 grams. Depending on personal preference, individuals can choose the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) for a lighter typing experience suited for longer use or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) for a heavier, more substantial feel when typing.
Travel distance
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, pressing down on a key with either of these switches will provide a similar feel and sensation. Therefore, when it comes to travel distance, both switches offer equal results.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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) offers a resonant experience with a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, making it satisfying to type on. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is designed to produce a muted sound. This means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. It minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so keep that in mind.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its sharp and accented tactile feedback. It offers a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It is considered an invigorating switch that provides a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages in its tactile feedback. It offers a mild tactile bump, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Similar to the POM T1, it also has an accented tactile feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Silent T1 is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
To summarize, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a switch that offers sharp tactility and a clean clack sound. It provides a sharp and accented tactile feedback, giving a strong and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is designed for those who want both a tactile feel and a silenced switch. It offers a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and a subdued audio feedback. It has a stepped feel and provides a prominent amount of tactility, along with a polished and smooth typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between the two depends on individual preferences. If you prefer maximum tactility and a resonant sound, the POM T1 is a great choice. If you're looking for a tactile and silenced experience with a more muted sound, the Silent T1 is the way to go. Ultimately, it's important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and the desired level of noise when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values maximum tactility and enjoys a clean clack sound while typing, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the one for you. With its sharp tactility and sharp sound profile, this switch provides a punchy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you are in need of a tactile and silenced switch, especially for noise-sensitive environments, then the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the perfect choice. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and a muted sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the Silent T1 comes with stepped and accented characteristics, giving you a mild tactility and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, whether you prioritize maximum tactility or a silenced keyboard, both the POM T1 (Sunflower) and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinct advantages to suit your preferences and needs.
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