Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role in deciding between options like the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). The POM T1 is a tactile switch that delivers maximum tactility, providing typists with a pronounced, punchy feedback and a satisfying clean clack. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while typing, characterized by its resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is a linear switch designed for a super smooth typing experience, featuring Ly stems that create a seamless keystroke with a resonant sound profile. This switch caters to those who prefer fluid movement without any tactile bumps. Both switches offer unique advantages: the POM T1 is perfect for users who desire feedback and engagement in each keystroke, while the Tomcat is great for those who favor an uninterrupted flow. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) showcase a distinct approach to housing materials that significantly influences their sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Sunflower creates a deep and muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience favored by enthusiasts who prefer a less pronounced acoustic response. In comparison, the Tomcat’s polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference is largely attributed to the inherent properties of the materials; while the POM is designed to produce a more subdued tone, the stiffer polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the keystrokes, resulting in a more vibrant and expressive experience, particularly relevant for those utilizing RGB lighting.
When examining the bottom housings, we see contrasting benefits that affect the overall auditory experience. The POM T1’s POM bottom housing similarly contributes to its subdued acoustics, producing a sound profile that is pleasing yet retains a deeper quality. Conversely, the Tomcat's nylon bottom housing imparts a fuller sound, as the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound and lends itself to a rounder, less bright tone. This disparity implies that while both houses deliver unique auditory qualities, they do so in ways that align with the preferences of different users—whether they lean towards the more muted sound of the POM T1 or the enhanced resonance of the Tomcat.
Despite the differences in material between the two switches, both can yield satisfying results depending on user preference. The combined influence of the materials means that the POM T1 will provide a richer, more dull sound overall, while the Tomcat will serve those who appreciate clear and sharp auditory feedback. For users who prefer a balanced sound experience, such as a muted top complemented by a deeper bottom, understanding how these materials interact offers insight into customizing their preference even further. Ultimately, while the housing materials diverge in terms of sound characteristics, they each offer unique benefits that cater to the diverse demands of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch exhibit distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, providing different typing experiences. The POM T1 lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 64 grams. This means that, despite the unknown actuation force of the POM T1, its heavier bottom out force suggests a firmer feel when bottoming out compared to the Tomcat. Consequently, the Tomcat offers a lighter touch at actuation, making it potentially better suited for those who value endurance during long typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the POM T1's heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Tomcat's actuation force is lighter, while the POM T1 is heavier at bottoming out, leading to different preferences based on individual typing habits and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the differences are noteworthy. The POM T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional specification and offers a substantial depth that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it more responsive and suited for quick actions—ideal for gamers who favor rapid key presses. Thus, if you prefer a switch that offers a hearty depth and a more deliberate feel, the POM T1 is the clear choice. Conversely, if you lean towards faster response times without the need for as much travel, the Tomcat may be more appealing. Overall, the POM T1 provides a longer travel experience compared to the Tomcat, which could feel more abrupt for those who are used to deeper key presses.
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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) tactile switch stands out with its resonant, clean, and sharp sound profile. This gives the typist an immersive auditory experience that amplifies the satisfaction of each keystroke. The neutral characteristic of its sound means that it strikes a balanced tone, making it versatile for various environments, whether you're typing at home or in a workplace. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch does not have a defined sound profile provided, but its reliance on a Ly stem suggests a smoother operation, which typically correlates with a quieter typing experience than tactile switches like the POM T1. However, exact descriptions of its sound qualities remain unknown.
Regarding feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is characterized by a sharp tactile bump that provides a pronounced feedback sensation with every keypress. The combination of its elevated tactility and snappy response creates an invigorating typing experience that’s both lively and engaging. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate clear tactile feedback without being overwhelmed. In contrast, the feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) is not detailed in the provided information, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in tactile response or feedback. Generally, linear switches are known for their smoothness; however, without specific descriptions, it's uncertain how the Tomcat holds up in terms of distinct feel.
In conclusion, if you are seeking a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a superb choice due to its sharp sound and invigorating tactile feedback. On the other hand, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch promises a smooth typing experience, its full auditory and tactile qualities remain unspecified. Thus, those looking for a clear tactile sensation will find the POM T1 immensely rewarding, while the Tomcat may provide a different, potentially quieter experience that still offers satisfaction through its smooth operation. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will hinge on whether you prioritize pronounced feedback or a consistently smooth typing action.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preference and intended use. If you crave a solid tactile experience with pronounced feedback and an invigorating feel, the POM T1 is your best bet. Its sharp tactility and resonant auditory profile make it ideal for a lively typing experience, whether you’re gaming, coding, or typing lengthy documents where you want to feel each keystroke distinctly. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience without the tactile bump, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) may be the right choice. Its linear design offers an exceptionally smooth operation with less tactile resistance, which is favorable for fast-paced gaming or typing where you want seamless key presses without interruptions. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by how you prioritize tactility versus smoothness in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
