Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to a satisfying typing experience, two mechanical keyboard switches stand out: the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. If maximum tactility is what you are after, then the POM T1 is the switch for you. With its sharp tactility and clean clack, typing on these switches is a delight. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, then the WS Silent Tactile is the perfect choice. Crafted with precision, these switches minimize switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return, all while maintaining an impressively silent profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their composition. The POM T1 (Sunflower) features POM housings for both the top and bottom parts, while the WS Silent Tactile utilizes nylon housings. POM is known for creating a pleasant and unique sound profile, with a deeper and relatively more muted tone. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the WS Silent Tactile is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the impact on the typing experience, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role. With the POM T1 (Sunflower), the deep and muted sound can be felt when bottoming out a key. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in the WS Silent Tactile contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressing down on a key. This suggests that both switches offer comparable results in terms of the typing experience, as the bottom housings bring similar qualities.
However, the top housing material also has its own significance. When releasing a key, the sound produced can vary based on the material used. The POM top housing in the POM T1 (Sunflower) contributes to its pleasing and unique sound when a key is let go. In contrast, the nylon top housing in the WS Silent Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the bottom housings have similarities, the top housings influence the sound profile differently, resulting in distinct auditory experiences between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have an unavailable actuation force, meaning we do not have specific information regarding the exact force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the POM T1 (Sunflower) requires 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the WS Silent Tactile requires 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range.
Weight plays a significant role in the typing experience, as it affects the user's endurance and the feeling of each keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter switch, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue, both switches can offer similar results as their actuation forces are not known. This lighter option is particularly suitable for individuals who use their keyboard extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience, switches with heavier forces are recommended.
In summary, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches present similar actuation forces due to the lack of available information. Nonetheless, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile requires 63.5 grams. This slight difference may not significantly impact the overall typing experience, but it is worth considering for individuals with specific preferences regarding the force required when bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional and deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches offer a satisfactory travel distance for typing or gaming, the POM T1 provides a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the WS Silent Tactile. If you prefer a more responsive keystroke, the WS Silent Tactile's shorter travel distance may be more suitable. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more tactile feel when pressing keys, the POM T1 with its longer travel distance would be the better choice.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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) is known for its resonant characteristics, providing a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. The sound is clean and sharp, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers a neutral sound profile, producing a more moderate sound with a quieter and softer tone. The switch's innovative stem railings with small cutouts effectively reduce switch sound without compromising on the crisp bottom-out and responsive return that typists appreciate. This unique approach sets it apart from conventional silent switches, resulting in a remarkable blend of tranquility and tactility. Keep in mind that the sound of both switches may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is renowned for its sharp and accented tactile feedback. Typists will experience a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress, giving a high feedback intensity. Additionally, the switch is described as snappy and invigorating, thanks to its super responsive nature and immersive typing sensation. Similarly, the WS Silent Tactile offers an accented tactile experience, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy and reactive feel create a typing sensation that is also invigorating. In addition, the WS Silent Tactile is also described as mild, offering a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These switches strike a balance between a safe, middle-ground feel and an enjoyable typing experience.
Considering all available information, the POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in providing maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack sound. It offers a sharp and accented tactile feedback that is prominent and distinctive. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction. It provides an innovative solution to minimize switch sound while maintaining a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and can be suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user using them at home or in an office environment.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences. If a user prioritizes maximum tactility and enjoys a sharper typing sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) would be a great choice. However, for users who value balancing tactility and noise reduction, and prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the crisp feel, the WS Silent Tactile would be the ideal option. By understanding the subjective qualities and considering individual requirements, keyboard enthusiasts can make an informed decision and get similar results in terms of sound and feel from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if maximum tactility and a satisfying clean clack are what you are after, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a sharp tactility that can be felt distinctly with each and every keypress. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent and tranquil typing experience without compromising on medium level tactility, then the WS Silent Tactile switch by Wuque Studio is the way to go. These switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, minimizing switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return. They provide a unique blend of tranquility and tactility without the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. In terms of sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a clean and sharp resonant profile, while the WS Silent Tactile produces a softer and quieter sound. As for feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a sharp and accented tactile feedback along with a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers an accented tactile feedback, an invigorating typing sensation, and a mild and approachable feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your priorities in terms of tactility, sound, and feel.
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