Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a pivotal role in enhancing the typing experience. The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out as a tactile switch, perfect for those who crave maximum tactility. Its sharp and invigorating feedback, complemented by a distinct clack, makes it a favorite for typists seeking both a tactile sensation and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch, offers a smoother typing experience. Recognized for its polished finish and bouncy feel, this switch delivers a subtle top-out along with a satisfying clack, enhanced by HMX's excellent factory lubrication. While the POM T1 appeals to those who enjoy pronounced feedback, the Sunset Gleam caters to users who prefer a seamless, fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Sunset Gleam, notable distinctions in sound profiles emerge. The POM top housing of the Sunflower is designed to produce a sound that is deeper and relatively muted, which can create a unique auditory experience characterized by warmth and richness. This contrasts sharply with the polycarbonate top housing of the Sunset Gleam, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in material stiffness between POM and polycarbonate contributes significantly to these sound characteristics, with the latter allowing for a more resonant and clear output, enhancing the switch's overall auditory presence—especially when RGB lighting is taken into account.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similar divergence in sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Sunflower also provides a deeper and more muted auditory experience, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. In comparison, the Sunset Gleam utilizes a nylon bottom housing, well-known for its ability to create a fuller and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than the stiffer POM material, resulting in a more rounded typing experience. Thus, each switch draws on the unique acoustic qualities of its respective bottom housing, influencing the overall sound feel during typing sessions.
Ultimately, the key takeaway is how the combination of these different materials affects the typing experience. In both switches, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced upon release. Therefore, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize different materials, they each produce a distinct sound profile that is reflective of their individual housing components. Users seeking to achieve similar auditory results can consider the interplay between these materials, recognizing that the acoustic characteristics can vary integral to the housing design yet still provide a fulfilling typing experience based on personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The POM T1 has an unspecified actuation force, making it difficult to gauge how it feels during use, while its bottom out force is a relatively heavy 67 grams. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This clearly positions the Sunset Gleam as the lighter option, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions due to its ease of use. The POM T1, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to press down completely. In summary, if you favor lighter switches for comfort and endurance, the Sunset Gleam is the better choice; if you enjoy a firmer keystroke, then the Durock POM T1 might be more to your liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The POM T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it one of the more traditional options that caters to users who appreciate a more substantial key press. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which aligns with the modern trend toward quicker response times favored by gamers. This difference means that the POM T1 provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the Sunset Gleam allows for more rapid key presses due to its shorter travel. For those who prefer a more responsive experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be the better choice, whereas individuals who desire a deeper, more satisfying keystroke might gravitate towards the Durock POM T1. Thus, if you're seeking a balance of depth and feedback versus speed and agility, your choice between these two switches will lean toward either the longer travel of the POM T1 or the shorter travel of the Sunset Gleam.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 considering the sound characteristics of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Sunset Gleam, both switches exhibit a resonant quality that produces a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp sound profile. The POM T1 is particularly noted for its satisfying clack, making it an enjoyable auditory experience for those who appreciate sound feedback while typing. Meanwhile, the Sunset Gleam also shares this resonant acoustic quality, promising a similarly immersive auditory impact. Since the sound produced by both switches can also be affected by the keyboard's construction and keycap choice, users can expect a comparable acoustic experience, enhancing the overall typing atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches are known for their sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. The noticeable tactile bump provides a robust and crisp sensation with each keystroke, offering a dynamic typing experience that many tactile enthusiasts cherish. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, being a linear switch, presents a smoother and polished feel, allowing for effortless key travel with minimal resistance, enhanced by factory lubrication. Users of the Sunset Gleam can expect a bouncy and silky typing experience that differs from the pronounced tactility of the POM T1. Thus, while both switches deliver highly enjoyable tactile feedback, they cater to different preferences—those who prefer pronounced bumps versus those who favor a smooth and fluid experience.
In conclusion, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Sunset Gleam are both designed with engaging auditory and tactile qualities, they offer distinct experiences tailored to varying typing styles. The POM T1 appeals to users who seek a pronounced, tactile sensation with a resonant acoustic profile, while the Sunset Gleam caters to those who prioritize smoothness and a lively, bouncy feel with a similarly crisp sound. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, as each switch brings its unique strengths to the mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the activities you engage in while using your keyboard. If you crave a pronounced tactile experience with a sharp, invigorating feedback, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is an excellent option, particularly if you enjoy the nostalgic feel of tactile feedback while typing or gaming. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams ensures each keypress is intentional and satisfying, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that adds to the auditory appeal. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a more engaged feeling during their interactions, whether it's for long typing sessions or focused gaming exploits. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more effortless typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its light bottom-out force of 48 grams, is ideal. This switch offers a silky feel and a polished finish that minimizes friction, making it suitable for both fast-paced typing and gaming. The Sunset Gleam's gentle responsiveness and subtle clack provide a refined audio experience without overwhelming the senses, making it a great choice for work environments or casual use. Ultimately, whether you opt for the tactile engagement of the POM T1 or the smoothness of the Sunset Gleam will depend on the type of feedback you desire and the context in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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