Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the TTC Speed Silver 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 a great choice. These punchy switches offer a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack when typing. Categorized as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating', they provide a dynamic and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the TTC Speed Silver is the way to go. Classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', these linear switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. They also boast a reduced travel distance, enabling quick and effortless actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the TTC Speed Silver switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The POM top housing of the POM T1 creates a deeper and more muted sound, which appeals to those who prefer a quieter and more refined typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, providing a crisper and more vibrant typing sound. However, both housings offer unique and pleasing sound profiles, delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 enhances its deeper and more muted sound profile. The POM material absorbs sound vibrations, resulting in a pleasantly rounded and duller sound. As for the Speed Silver, its nylon bottom housing adds a classic touch to the typing experience. The nylon material, being softer and more sound-absorbent, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. These differences in bottom housings allow users to choose between a rounder and more muted sound or a deeper and fuller sound.
When using these switches, the impact of the housing materials can be felt differently. The bottom housing has a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This means that the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 would provide a more pronounced and cushioned bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the top housing contributes more to the sound that occurs when the key is released. This implies that the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver would offer a distinct and clear sound when letting go of a key. This distinction highlights how the different materials used in the housings can influence specific aspects of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the POM T1 is unfortunately not available, while the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the POM T1 requires 67 grams of force, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Speed Silver requires 55 grams, making it medium-light.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, others prefer a more substantial typing experience and opt for switches with heavier forces. In this comparison, the Speed Silver can be considered lighter due to its lower actuation force and bottom out force compared to the POM T1.
Although the specific actuation force for the POM T1 is unknown, it is expected to provide a similar result to the TTC Speed Silver in terms of trigger sensitivity. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the POM T1 will provide a slightly heavier typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have different travel distances. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Speed Silver switch more suitable for gamers who prioritize faster response times, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, like the POM T1 (Sunflower). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding responsiveness and key feel.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile. This switch offers an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver has a neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a range of descriptors. It can be described as sharp, providing a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. It can also be considered accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Moreover, the POM T1 has snappy and invigorating qualities, making it super responsive and immersive. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It provides a safe and approachable middle-ground feel. Additionally, the Speed Silver can be described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The POM T1 provides a sharp tactility, a clean and sharp sound profile, and an immersive typing sensation. The Speed Silver, on the other hand, offers a lighter typing experience and a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. While the two switches differ in their characteristics, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the experience. By carefully considering the available information and understanding your personal preferences, you can make an informed decision to achieve a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If maximum tactility is what you are after, with a sharp tactility and satisfying clack, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance, the TTC Speed Silver is the perfect choice.
In terms of sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes.
When it comes to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback, creating a distinct and immersive typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Speed Silver provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel and reduced friction.
Consider your personal preferences for tactility, typing speed, sound profile, and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard. Whether you prioritize maximum tactility or a fast and precise typing experience, both switches have their unique qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the TTC Speed Silver will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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