Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Xinhai offer two distinct typing experiences. The POM T1 is a tactile switch that is praised for its maximum tactility, providing a sharp and satisfying clack with each keystroke. In contrast, the Xinhai is a linear switch that stands out for its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, offering a softer acoustics profile and a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the POM T1 is resonant, neutral, sharp, snappy, and invigorating, the Xinhai is described as bouncy, clacky, and creamy. If you value maximum tactility in a switch, the POM T1 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer acoustics profile and a creamy typing experience, the Xinhai could be the switch for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Xinhai differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom. The POM T1 features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Xinhai opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the POM T1 offers a unique sound experience with its POM bottom housing, whereas the Xinhai uses a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Xinhai deliver unique sound profiles that cater to specific preferences. The POM top housing of the Sunflower offers a softer and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai provides a sharper and more resonant sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Sunflower produces a deeper sound, contrasting with the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai, which offers a fuller sound. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Xinhai ultimately comes down to individual preferences for sound and feel. The POM T1's unique sound profile created by its POM housing stands out for those who prefer a deeper and more muted typing experience, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate and nylon housings offer sharper and fuller sound profiles, catering to a different set of preferences. Whether one prefers a softer, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that can enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Weight
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams with no specified actuation force, while the Xinhai has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Xinhai is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the POM T1 (Sunflower). For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Xinhai may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the heavier force of the POM T1 (Sunflower). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches mentioned. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the POM T1. The POM T1 offers a deeper actuation feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Xinhai provides a more shallow and quicker keypress with its shorter travel distance. In terms of responsiveness, the Xinhai would be favored by those looking for a faster key response, such as gamers, while the POM T1 would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences among users.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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) provides a resonant and clean clack sound profile, offering a higher-pitched and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive. Depending on your preference, the POM T1 might offer a more immersive and sharp sound, while the Xinhai could provide a snappier and brighter sound.
When it comes to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating typing sensation due to its strong tactile bump and high feedback intensity. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, with a spring-like feedback for a lively typing experience and a smooth and buttery sensation. Depending on your typing style and preference for feedback intensity, the POM T1 might be preferable for those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the Xinhai could be favored for a smoother and more elastic keystroke.
Overall, both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the HMX Xinhai offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a maximum tactility and sharp sound, the POM T1 could be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you seek a balance between soft acoustics and precise performance with a bouncy and creamy feel, the Xinhai switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value maximum tactility and a sharp, clean clack, the POM T1 (Sunflower) with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and a unique blend of soft acoustics with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sharp tactility or a softer acoustics profile in your typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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