Everglide Sunset Yellow vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Durock T1 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 Everglide Sunset Yellow, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch. The Sunset Yellow switches are known for their Creamsicle-colored appearance and their captivating sound profile, reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. With a rich, bassy, and decadent sound, typing becomes an indulgent experience. These switches offer a unique gliding feel due to their POM stem and proprietary factory lube method. The combination of very short travel and a long-pole stem also ensures a sharper and highly responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switches are best known for their comfort during typing. They provide a medium bump when pressing down, and the sound they produce resembles rain falling on a window. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Durock T1 switches differ significantly in terms of their housing materials. The Sunset Yellow utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. This material creates a unique and pleasing sound, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic enhances clarity and resonance, making it a preferred choice for users who enjoy a more distinct typing sound. Additionally, the T1's nylon bottom housing adds to its sound profile, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sunset Yellow.
In terms of aesthetics, the Sunset Yellow's POM housing does not provide any particular benefit when it comes to RGB lighting. However, the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 is translucent, allowing for vibrant and eye-catching lighting effects. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to add a visual touch to their keyboard setup. Additionally, the use of clear housings generally indicates the presence of polycarbonate material.
While the housing materials of the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Durock T1 differ, both switches offer unique sound characteristics. If you prefer a deeper and more muted sound, the Sunset Yellow's POM housing will deliver pleasing results. On the other hand, if you seek a sharper and crisper sound profile, the T1's polycarbonate top housing will provide a more distinct typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches reflect careful consideration of the housing materials to optimize the sound output.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Sunset Yellow has an actuation force of 43 grams, which can be considered as medium-light, while its bottom out force is measured at 51 grams. On the other hand, the actuation force of the T1 switch is unknown, but its bottom out force is noticeably heavier at 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy.
Considering the weight of the switch is crucial due to various factors. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Sunset Yellow as it enables them to type for extended periods, making it suitable for work-related or prolonged gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience might favor the T1 switch, which offers a stronger push feel due to its higher bottom out force.
While the actuation force of the T1 switch remains unknown, the difference in bottom out force suggests that it is heavier than the Sunset Yellow. Nonetheless, if similar typing outcomes are desired, both switches are likely to provide comparable results as they offer medium actuation forces. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Sunset Yellow has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the T1 falls within the average range at 4.0 mm, while the Sunset Yellow offers a shallower travel distance of 3.2 mm. For gamers looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Yellow may be preferable. However, those who prefer a deeper keystroke may find the T1 with its longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to individual preference and desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
The Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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 Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offers a captivating and indulgent typing experience with a rich, bassy, and decadent sound. This switch produces a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound during key presses, resembling the sound of mahjong tiles colliding. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched and mellow sound similar to rain falling on a window. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. However, if you enjoy a deeper, bass-heavy sound, both switches can provide similar results.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offers a distinct gliding sensation thanks to its unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method. This switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, almost like effortlessly melting into each keystroke. It can be described as creamy, frictionless, and polished, resulting in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming or subtle sensations. Like the Everglide Sunset Yellow, the Durock T1 is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a smooth and silky typing experience, both switches can deliver similar results.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sunset Yellow provides a bassy and thocky sound while offering a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 offers a low-pitched sound resembling rain and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose either switch to achieve a captivating sound and a comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you prioritize a captivating sound profile and a distinct gliding feel, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch is the choice for you. With their medium-light bottom out force and Creamsicle-colored appearance, these switches offer a rich, bassy sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. The POM stem and factory lube method contribute to a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. The very short travel combined with a long-pole stem ensures sharp and highly responsive typing.
On the other hand, if your priority lies in comfort and a medium bump tactile feel, the Durock T1 switch is the ideal option. With their medium-heavy bottom out force and rain-like sound, T1 switches provide a pleasant typing experience. They offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, suitable for various users and environments. The stepped, accented, and polished feel of these switches adds to their comfort and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for sound and feel. Consider the Everglide Sunset Yellow if you desire a bassy, thocky sound and a creamy, frictionless feel. Alternatively, opt for the Durock T1 if you prefer a low-pitched, neutral sound and a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel.
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