Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers satisfying tactility, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a great choice. Known for its maximum tactility, this switch provides a sharp and invigorating typing experience that is accompanied by a clean clack. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue is worth considering. With a lengthened single-stage spring, these linear switches offer a bouncy feel with each keystroke. Their standard spring weight strikes a balance, making them enjoyable and easy to press for a wide range of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
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
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affects their sound profiles. The POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM top housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side. This results in a relatively more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Tourmaline Blue differ. The POM bottom housing of the Sunflower switch produces a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, resulting in a relatively more muted sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Tourmaline Blue impact the sound produced at different stages of keystrokes. If the top and bottom housings are different, the characteristics of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. It is important to consider these factors when selecting a switch, as the housing materials can significantly influence the overall sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Tourmaline Blue is lighter with an actuation force of 59 grams, while the actuation force of the POM T1 is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
Considering the preference for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, those who prioritize a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Tourmaline Blue switch. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals using their keyboards for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might prefer the POM T1, even though the specific actuation force remains unknown.
It is important to note that both switches share the same bottom out force of 67 grams. Therefore, those seeking a similar typing experience regarding the force required to press the key all the way down can find parallel results with either the Durock POM T1 or the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation force and the desired typing experience one seeks to achieve.
Travel distance
Both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. In this aspect, both switches provide a similar user experience as they offer the same distance for the switch to travel from top to bottom. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on keys for both switches.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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) switch offers a resonant and clean sound profile with a higher-pitched tone. It provides an immersive auditory experience that is sharp and satisfying. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate tone suitable for various scenarios. Both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences in terms of sound, but the POM T1 switch leans towards a more distinct and immersive sound, while the Tourmaline Blue switch offers a more balanced sound.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent with every keystroke, providing a high level of feedback intensity. The Tourmaline Blue switch, however, offers a buttery and easy-to-press experience. It has a smooth and effortless keystroke, requiring minimal force for activation. The Tourmaline Blue switch also falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches provide satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences, but the POM T1 switch focuses more on strong tactile feedback, while the Tourmaline Blue switch aims for a smoother and low-impact feel.
Considering all the available information, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch excels in providing a sharp tactile experience with a resonant sound profile. It is best suited for those seeking maximum tactility and a clean clack sound. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch offers a deep and thocky sound, along with a buttery and easy-to-press feel. It strikes a balance with its standard spring weight, making it accessible to a wide range of users. While these two switches have different subjective qualities, they both deliver satisfying typing experiences in their respective areas. So, if you are looking for similar results, either switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience depending on your preference for tactility and sound.
Conclusion
In summary, if maximum tactility is what you are after and you enjoy a sharp and clean clack when typing, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each and every keypress. Additionally, if you prefer a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched sound, the POM T1 switches will deliver an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a deep and thocky sound profile that provides a bouncy feel with each keystroke, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is the perfect fit. These switches are known for their balanced feel and standard spring weight, making them enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of users. Furthermore, if you prefer a switch with a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, the Tourmaline Blues will provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range, ensuring a satisfying and substantial typing experience. The sound profile of both switches is described as neutral, making them suitable for various intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work.
In the end, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize maximum tactility and a sharp clack, opt for the POM T1. If you desire a deep thocky sound and a smooth keystroke experience, go for the Tourmaline Blue. Whichever switch you choose, both offer exceptional qualities that will enhance your typing experience.
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