Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) or the Gazzew U4Tx. Both switches offer a tactile experience, but they have unique qualities that make them stand out. The POM T1 is best known for its maximum tactility, providing a punchy switch with a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. On the other hand, the U4Tx marries the best of both worlds, offering a cleaner and refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Both switches promise a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide which switch is the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4Tx switches both utilize unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The POM top housing of the POM T1 produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound, with a deeper tone that is relatively more muted. Similarly, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both switches offer a deep sound, the POM T1's top housing may provide a slightly more muted tone compared to the U4Tx's "boba plastic" top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the POM T1 and the U4Tx differ slightly in their material composition. The POM bottom housing of the POM T1 contributes to its pleasing and unique sound, similar to the top housing. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which also imparts a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Pressing down on either switch will result in feeling the qualities of the respective bottom housing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the POM T1 and the U4Tx may exhibit slight differences in the tactile experience when the switch is pressed.
While the POM T1 and the U4Tx have differences in their housing materials, they both offer a deep and pleasing sound profile. The POM T1's POM top and bottom housings create a more muted and unique sound, while the U4Tx's proprietary "boba plastic" blend top and bottom housings deliver a rich and deep sound. Despite these variances, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying auditory experience. Therefore, if you are looking for switches with similar sound characteristics, both the POM T1 and the U4Tx can offer comparable results.
Weight
When comparing the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. However, since the actuation force values are unavailable for both switches, it is uncertain how they specifically compare in this regard. In terms of bottom out force, the POM T1 has a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, while the U4Tx has a force of 65 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight can be important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for longer durations without fatigue, making it suitable for extended work sessions or lengthy gaming endeavors. On the other hand, others might desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, favoring switches with heavier forces.
In conclusion, while the specific actuation forces of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and Gazzew U4Tx switches are unknown, their bottom out forces show a slight difference, with the POM T1 being slightly heavier at 67 grams and the U4Tx at 65 grams, both classified as medium-heavy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is 4.0 mm, making it a more traditional option. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The POM T1 offers a deeper press, providing a more satisfying depth for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx's shorter travel distance caters to gamers who prefer faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference. If you value a more responsive feel, the Gazzew U4Tx would be the suitable choice. However, if you enjoy the feeling of a deeper press, the Durock POM T1 offers a longer travel distance. Both options have their merits and will provide satisfactory results depending on the individual's preferences.
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 U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its resonant profile, providing a clean and sharp sound when typing. This switch offers a higher-pitched sound that creates an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch marries the best of both worlds with a refined sound profile. It produces a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet sound when topping out. This switch offers a bassy sound with a lower frequency range, delivering a rich and satisfying acoustic experience. However, 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.
When it comes to feel, both the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the U4Tx switches are described as having a sharp tactile feedback. This means that they provide a high-intensity feedback with a distinct tactile bump felt with each keypress. The POM T1 (Sunflower) is additionally described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is a snappy switch, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the typing experience and making it feel more alive. On the other hand, the U4Tx only provides information on its sharp tactile feel without further descriptors.
Based on the information provided, the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Gazzew U4Tx switches differ in terms of sound, with the POM T1 offering a resonant and clean sound, while the U4Tx provides a bassy and muted sound. However, both switches share the quality of sharp tactile feedback. Therefore, if you are seeking a similar tactile experience with either switch, you can expect to get satisfying results in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound profiles, as well as other factors such as actuation force and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if maximum tactility is what you are after and you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a satisfying clean clack, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a luxurious typing experience with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet sound when topping out, then the Gazzew U4Tx switch is the ideal option. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a similar level of resistance.
When it comes to sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant and neutral sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience suitable for any setting. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch offers a bassy and muted sound profile, with a deeper and richer sound resembling bass tones, while also minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The POM T1 (Sunflower) also offers an accented and invigorating feel, with a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the U4Tx switch is described as having a sharp tactile feel similar to the POM T1 (Sunflower).
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and Gazzew U4Tx switch depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider whether you prioritize maximum tactility and a clean clack (POM T1) or a luxurious typing experience with a deep, resonant sound (U4Tx). Both switches have their unique characteristics, providing an immersive and satisfying typing experience overall.
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