Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The POM T1 (Sunflower) is the ideal choice for those seeking maximum tactility. These switches offer a sharp tactility and a clean clack, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are renowned for their thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. They strike a perfect balance with their pronounced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affects the sound profile they produce. The POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in materials is significant for those who prioritize the sound experience while typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Viola Tricolor is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Viola Tricolor take different approaches again. The POM bottom housing of the POM T1 contributes to its distinctive sound profile, emphasizing a deeper tone. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, allowing users to experience different tactile sensations between the two switches.
Although the top and bottom housings play specific roles in determining the sound profile of a switch, the impact they have on the overall typing experience can vary. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts seeking the perfect auditory and tactile experience while typing. Whether one prefers the deeper and more muted sound of the POM T1 (Sunflower) or the sharper and crisper sound of the Viola Tricolor, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it is important to consider their weight and how it affects typing experience. Unfortunately, the exact actuation forces for both switches are unavailable. However, we can compare their bottom out forces, which provide some insight.
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also categorized as medium-heavy. This means that both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Haimu Viola Tricolor may be a better option, as its bottom out force is slightly lighter. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions where one may not want excessive finger fatigue. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may be favored by those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation forces of both switches are unavailable, their similar bottom out forces suggest that they are likely to provide comparable results in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference regarding weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the POM T1 being slightly longer. Gamers, who often prioritize quick response times, may prefer the Viola Tricolor with its shorter travel distance. This allows for faster keystrokes and potentially improved gaming performance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial keypress may prefer the POM T1 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference 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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a resonant and clean clack. This switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile, delivering an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor presents a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. With its deeper and richer sound during key presses, it adds a touch of character to the typing experience. The Viola Tricolor strikes a balance by offering a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user, resulting in a satisfying feedback without crossing into being overly tactile. It is important to note that the actual sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer subjective sound experiences, but the POM T1 (Sunflower) leans towards a sharp and resonant profile, while the Viola Tricolor favors a bassy and low-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share the descriptor of having accented switches. This means that they provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches offer pronounced feedback and an invigorating typing sensation. The POM T1 (Sunflower) is also characterized by its sharp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity that is felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is described as snappy, indicating a super-responsive typing experience. The Viola Tricolor, on the other hand, exhibits a moderate to firm actuation force and a reactive feel, contributing to an immersive typing sensation. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying feel with pronounced tactility and an invigorating typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Haimu Viola Tricolor have their own unique qualities. The POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its sharp tactility and a resonant sound profile, providing a clean and sharp clack. It offers a high feedback intensity and a snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor delivers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a bassy and low-pitched tone. It strikes a balance with its pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user. Both switches offer an invigorating typing sensation and an accented tactile feel. While they differ in sound and have slightly different feelings, those who enjoy one switch are likely to find similar satisfaction with the other due to the shared descriptors. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and desired level of tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if maximum tactility is your primary concern and you enjoy a sharp, clean clack when typing, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a resonant sound profile, characterized by a higher-pitched sound that immerses you in an auditory experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be ideal.
On the other hand, if you desire a switch that strikes a perfect balance between sharp tactility and a thuddy, punchy sound profile, then the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be a great fit for you. With a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user. The Viola Tricolor switches provide a touch of character to your typing experience, with a sound profile that is described as bassy and low-pitched. If you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy, and mellow sound during key presses, the Viola Tricolor switches are a great option.
It's important to note that both switches share the descriptor of "accented," which means they provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. The Viola Tricolor switches also offer an invigorating typing sensation, characterized by pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing experience that keeps you engaged and energized.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider what factors are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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