Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack are what you are after, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the perfect choice. This switch is best known for its sharp tactility and invigorating typing experience. Categorized as resonant, sharp, and snappy, the POM T1 offers a punchy response that will make your typing sessions feel lively and energetic. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the one for you. With a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile, these Duck switches create a more mild and polished typing experience. Categorized as neutral and buttery, the Duck switches provide a comfortable and smooth typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
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 SP-Star Duck differ in their housing materials, with the POM T1 featuring a POM top housing and a POM bottom housing, while the Duck incorporates a polycarbonate top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing. The POM material used in the POM T1 creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile, providing a unique and pleasing auditory experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate material used in the Duck's housings results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Duck's top housing allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, those who prioritize sound depth and muted tones may prefer the POM T1, while those seeking a more vibrant and clear sound accompanied by RGB lighting options may lean towards the SP-Star Duck.
When examining just the bottom housings of the two switches, the difference in materials becomes more crucial. The POM bottom housing of the POM T1 contributes to its deeper and more muted sound profile, enhancing the impact and resonance when bottoming out a key. On the contrary, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck intensifies the sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness in sound, making the bottom-out experience more distinct and defined. This emphasizes the importance of the bottom housing material in determining the tactile response and auditory feedback when pressing down on keys.
In contrast, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The POM top housing of the POM T1, with its deeper and relatively muted sound profile, influences the sound quality when keys are let go. Similarly, the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. Both materials bring a unique auditory experience to the user, with the POM providing a more subdued sound and the polycarbonate delivering a more pronounced and vibrant tone. Thus, the choice between the POM T1 and the Duck relies on the individual's preference for the sound produced when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is important to consider the weight factor. The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Duck tactile switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is more towards the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Duck tactile switch might be a better option as it offers a slightly lighter bottom out force. This allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue and is well-suited for tasks such as gaming or bringing a keyboard to work. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) would be a suitable choice as it has a heavier bottom out force.
Although the actuation force is not mentioned for either switch, it can be inferred that both switches have a similar actuation force since it is not specified otherwise. Therefore, if actuation force is a crucial factor, both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the SP-Star Duck switches can provide similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing styles. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch experience, both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer suitable options for various typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock POM T1 or the SP-Star Duck, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a 4 mm 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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) switch is best described as resonant. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. The sound profile is clean and sharp, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. The Duck switch is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
As for feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a sharp tactile experience. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. The tactile feedback is prominent and can be distinctly felt. Additionally, the POM T1 switch can also be characterized as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It has a snappy and responsive feel, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which adds to the typing experience. Overall, the POM T1 switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a more mild tactile typing experience. It falls into the safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle typing experience that suits most users. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable and comfortable. The Duck switch can be described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Typing on these switches feels seamless, effortless, and uniform. Additionally, the Duck switch is polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be achieved through the materials used and/or factory lubing, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a punchy and sharp tactile experience with a resonant sound profile. It provides a highly tactile and invigorating typing sensation, making it ideal for those seeking maximum tactility. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile experience with a mild sound profile. Its feel is described as mild, buttery, and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. Depending on your preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you are looking for a highly tactile and sharp experience or a more mild and smooth feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking maximum tactility and a sharp, clean clack, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the choice for you. These medium-heavy switches provide a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, if you prefer a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched sound and an immersive auditory experience, the POM T1 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience and a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the perfect option. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these medium switches offer a gentle tactility. The Duck switches also provide a range of qualities, from a mild and approachable typing experience to a buttery, smooth, and polished keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the POM T1 and the Duck will depend on your personal preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your desired typing experience and select the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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