Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options stand out: the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Vintage Citrus. The POM T1 is celebrated for its assertive tactile feedback, delivering a sharply pronounced bump and a satisfying clack that appeals to typists seeking maximum tactility. This switch embodies a range of characteristics including resonance and snappiness, making it invigorating for individuals who enjoy the tactile experience of each keystroke. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus switch from HMX is engineered with gamers in mind, featuring an impressively low actuation force of just 1mm, ideal for swift and efficient key presses during intense gaming sessions. Its smooth push feel, combined with a bright, clacky sound profile, enhances the overall gaming experience. While each switch offers its unique advantages—whether for typing enjoyment or rapid-fire gaming—understanding the specific traits of each can help you make the best choice for your needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and HMX Vintage Citrus switches each utilize distinct housing materials that affect their acoustic properties and tactile experiences. The POM T1 features a top and bottom housing made from POM, a high-performance plastic renowned for its durability and unique sound characteristics. POM's properties contribute to a deeper, more muted sound profile, giving the POM T1 a pleasing auditory quality that is consistent through both the top and bottom housings. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is traditionally viewed as a classic material in switch construction, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer, more sound-absorbing nature.
While both the Durock POM T1 and the HMX Vintage Citrus offer deeper sound profiles, their materials can lead to differentiated auditory experiences. The POM housing of the Sunflower is described as creating a more unique and muted sound, which could suggest a subtler acoustic experience. In contrast, the nylon composition of the Vintage Citrus absorbs sound more effectively, creating a deeper and rounder resonance. This can provide a distinct auditory experience even when the switches are pressed and released. The differences in material characteristics can result in different typographical sensations, despite sharing the underlying trait of delivering a solid, satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the similarities and differences in housing materials between the Durock POM T1 and HMX Vintage Citrus can result in comparable auditory outcomes. Both switches succeed in producing a fulfilling deeper sound, albeit through different mechanisms. The POM's durability and muted sound could align well with the nylon's ability to create a rounder sound profile, leading to a blend of pleasing auditory qualities. When pressed, the qualities imparted by the bottom housing become prominent, while the top housing influences the release sound. Thus, despite their material differences, both switches can lead to surprisingly harmonious typing experiences, allowing users to enjoy a cohesive feel and sound regardless of the switch selected.
Weight
When comparing the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The POM T1 does not have a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a heavier feel when pressed all the way down. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it the lighter option overall. This means that typists who prefer a lighter switch for extended use would likely gravitate towards the Vintage Citrus, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions with less fatigue. Conversely, the POM T1’s heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while the Durock POM T1 is heavier at bottom out, the Vintage Citrus offers a lighter actuation force, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback and typing comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The POM T1 features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and offers a satisfying depth for those who enjoy a hearty feel when pressing keys. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, appealing to gamers or users who prefer quicker responsiveness and faster actuation. This difference highlights the preference spectrum between tactile feedback with more depth versus the rapid response of shallower switches. For users who thrive on a more abrupt action, the HMX Vintage Citrus is the better option, while those seeking a more substantial keypress may prefer the Durock POM T1. Thus, while both switches serve different user needs, their travel distances cater to distinct tactile experiences.
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 Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 discussing sound, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) features a resonant and clean clack, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience that many find engaging. This sharp sound profile enhances the typing environment, bridging the gap between feedback and enjoyment. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch has no specific sound characteristics listed here, but it is known for its bright, clacky quality. However, since sound can vary significantly based on keyboard construction, materials, and keycap choice, both switches have the potential to provide distinct auditory experiences influenced by these factors.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is celebrated for its sharp and snappy tactile feedback, which is prominent and invigorating during use. The combination of its strong tactile bump and responsive design creates an enjoyable typing experience that allows users to feel each keypress distinctly. This makes it especially appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch has no specific feel descriptors provided, but its extremely low actuation force suggests a smooth push is likely, tailored to quick input scenarios favored by gamers. While the tactile quality may not match the POM T1, it excels in delivering rapid keypresses with little resistance.
In conclusion, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a sharp, engaging sound and an invigorating, tactile feel that is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize feedback in their typing experience. The HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, while less described, is engineered for speed with a clacky sound profile that caters to gamers. Together, they highlight the diversity of mechanical switches available, allowing users to select based on their preferred auditory and tactile experiences. Ultimately, both switches will lead to satisfying results, whether you seek maximum tactility or swift responsiveness, but will cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you seek a robust, tactile experience characterized by a sharp and satisfying feedback with each keypress, the POM T1 is your go-to option. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation while typing, making it suitable for both gaming and general use. On the other hand, if your focus is on rapid-fire inputs, particularly for gaming, the Vintage Citrus will serve you well with its lighter bottom-out force of 53 grams and exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm. This switch is designed to respond quickly, offering a seamless and smooth push feel, which is vital for fast-paced action. Additionally, the bright clacky sound profile of the Vintage Citrus enhances the gaming experience, while the POM T1 provides a clean and sharp auditory feedback. In summary, your choice should reflect whether you value tactile feedback and sound or prefer a light, swift action for dynamic gaming.
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