Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers maximum tactility, then both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 should pique your interest. The POM T1 is known for its sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack, providing an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, as well as a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, making for a uniquely comfortable typing experience. While the POM T1 is categorized as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, the U4 is categorized as muted, low-pitched, and sharp. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 are quite different, leading to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both materials deliver a deep sound profile, the Gazzew U4's blend provides a more pronounced richness.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches feature unique qualities. The POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) contributes to the switch's overall sound, providing a pleasing and deeper sound profile. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, referred to as "boba plastic," adds a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Despite being different materials, both bottom housings contribute to the switches' deep sound profiles, although the Gazzew U4 may offer a slightly more pronounced richness due to its unique blend.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles in these switches. Pressing down on a switch will primarily reveal the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The POM bottom housing is likely to provide a muted and deep tactile experience, while the Gazzew U4's "boba plastic" bottom housing may offer a softer and more cushioned bottom-out feel. In contrast, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when a key is released. The POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 are both responsible for enhancing the switch's sound when a key is let go, potentially resulting in similar results in this aspect.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 have unique characteristics, they both contribute to the deep sound profiles of the switches. The POM T1 (Sunflower) may offer a relatively more muted sound, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend can provide a rich and deep sound. Similarly, both switches have distinct bottom housings that influence the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Gazzew U4 potentially offering a softer and more cushioned experience. Ultimately, the top housing in both switches plays a role in the sound when a key is released, potentially leading to similar results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. In terms of weight, the POM T1 has an unavailable actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gazzew U4 would be the better option, as it has a lower actuation force. This enables users to type for longer periods of time, making it suitable for work settings or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, if a more substantial and stronger push feel is desired, the POM T1 would be a better choice. Its heavier bottom out force provides a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces are different between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and Gazzew U4 switches, both can deliver satisfactory results depending on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is 4.0mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that the POM T1 has a longer travel distance compared to the U4. A travel distance of 4.0mm is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feeling, while a travel distance of 3.6mm is slightly shallower. Nowadays, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive key press, the shorter 3.6mm travel distance of the U4 would be a better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper sensation when pressing keys, the POM T1 with its longer 4.0mm travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant sound profile that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. This switch has a higher-pitched sound, creating an immersive and satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is known for being muted and low-pitched. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The U4's sound profile is more bass-heavy and mellow, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a punchy and resonant sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the choice for you. However, if you prefer a silent and muted typing experience, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go.
Moving on to feel, both the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 switches offer a sharp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity with each keypress. This tactile bump is strong and crisp, allowing for a distinct and satisfying feeling when typing. However, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a range of additional descriptors such as "accented" and "snappy." These terms indicate that the POM T1 switch falls between a medium tactile switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The POM T1 also has a snappy and invigorating feel due to the longer or dual-staged springs used. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 does not come with any additional descriptors, suggesting that it may have a simpler yet equally satisfying tactile feel. If you're looking for a switch with a range of tactile options, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a simpler and equally satisfying tactile experience, the Gazzew U4 is a reliable option.
Considering all the available information, the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The POM T1 provides a resonant sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, making it ideal for those seeking a punchy and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a muted sound profile and a sharp tactile bump, creating a whisper-quiet typing experience with a plush bottom-out sensation. While the POM T1 has a wider range of descriptors, indicating a more nuanced tactile feel, the Gazzew U4 provides a simpler yet equally satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Regardless of the switch chosen, both the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 will provide a high-quality and enjoyable keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if maximum tactility is important to you and you enjoy a sharp and clean clack sound when typing, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch provides a medium-heavy feel. The POM T1 also offers a resonant sound profile, giving you a higher-pitched sound and an immersive auditory experience. The feel of this switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, providing a strong feedback intensity and a reactive typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch provides a medium feel. The U4 has a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, and a low-pitched tone for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. In terms of feel, the U4 is also described as sharp, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience. Consider whether you prioritize maximum tactility, a sharp and clean clack sound, and a medium-heavy feel, or if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, a muted sound profile, and a low-pitched tone. Evaluate your personal preferences and select the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience.
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