Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role in enhancing the typing experience. On one hand, the Gateron Aliaz switches stand out as an exceptional choice for those who prioritize a silent typing experience, making them perfect for quiet environments like offices. With their medium-heavy weight, these tactile switches provide a satisfying feedback on each keystroke while maintaining a muted sound profile, ideal for individuals who enjoy pronounced tactile sensations without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches appeal to users who seek an effortlessly smooth typing experience; their linear nature and ultra-light actuation force offer a silky glide with a poppy, clacky sound that can energize every keystroke. While the Aliaz focuses on a more refined, quiet approach to typing, the Poro delivers a lively and dynamic feedback, making each option uniquely suited to different preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Poro switches, a distinct contrast becomes evident in their top housing compositions, with the Aliaz utilizing polycarbonate and the Poro employing nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the Aliaz is key to its sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer plastic not only amplifies resonance but also facilitates a more vivid collaboration with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Poro’s nylon housing contributes to a sound profile that is noticeably deeper and fuller, resulting from nylon's softer characteristics that absorb more sound. Consequently, while the Aliaz leans towards clarity and brightness, the Poro opts for warmth and richness.
The bottom housings of the Aliaz and Poro reflect a similar divergence in material choice. Both switches incorporate polycarbonate for the Aliaz and nylon for the Poro, reinforcing their respective sound profiles. The polycarbonate bottom of the Aliaz continues the theme of sharper and crisper sounds, enhancing the overall typing experience by making key releases feel more alive and resonant. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Poro retains that deeper, fuller sound, contributing to a more muted, rounded overall feedback when bottoming out. This shows how the materials not only vary in their physical properties but also deeply influence the acoustic and tactile experience of each switch.
Despite these differences, there is a similarity in how the characteristics of each switch are perceived when typing. Since each switch's feel and sound is derived from both the top and bottom housing, users familiar with the specifying impact of materials will notice a distinct experience when engaging with the Aliaz and Poro. For example, players or typists who prefer a sharper sound might gravitate towards the Aliaz's polycarbonate, while those who seek a fuller audio experience may prefer the Poro's nylon. However, when pressed together, one would find that the combination of different materials creates multifaceted typing profiles that can still achieve satisfying acoustic results, even if the qualities are split between the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there is a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier option. In contrast, the Poro switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of just 50 grams. This difference means that typists who prefer a lighter feel for long typing sessions or extended gaming will likely gravitate toward the Poro switch, as it demands less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, the Aliaz might appeal more to those who enjoy a stronger, more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Aliaz offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Poro has a slightly shorter distance of 3.7 mm. This difference means that the Aliaz provides a more pronounced keypress, potentially appealing to users who prefer a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the Poro's 3.7 mm travel distance is more aligned with modern preferences for quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers who favor a snappier feel. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a more substantial feedback, the Aliaz with its longer distance may be the better option. Conversely, if rapid actuation is your goal, the Poro's shorter travel distance could provide the responsiveness you need.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch excels in creating a muted acoustic profile, ideal for quiet environments like offices where noise reduction is a priority. Its design minimizes the typical clacking noise associated with mechanical switches, allowing for discreet typing. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro linear switch boasts a poppy and clacky sound profile, attributed to its ultra-light actuation force. This combination provides a more pronounced auditory feedback that is enjoyable but may not be suitable for noise-sensitive settings. Ultimately, the Aliaz offers a quieter experience, while the Poro appeals to users who appreciate a livelier sound during typing.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Aliaz is characterized by its medium-heavy weight and a silky, polished typing experience. The substantial feedback makes each keystroke satisfying without being overwhelming, allowing typists to feel the actuation clearly without excessive resistance. By contrast, details on the feel of the HMX Poro linear switch are not specified, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares. Nevertheless, the Aliaz’s smooth and refined touch may align with the silky experience that a well-lubricated switch might provide, allowing for a pleasant typing experience across both options, as long as one values the distinct tactile cue the Aliaz delivers.
In summary, the Gateron Aliaz offers a muted sound and a satisfying tactile feel, making it a great option for quieter settings and those who favor a more substantial keystroke feedback. The HMX Poro, with its poppy sound, caters to gamers or typists who revel in an engaging auditory experience. While the Aliaz provides a recognized tactile and auditory profile, the Poro’s attributes remain less defined, but its focus on smoothness suggests it may still appeal to those who appreciate refined keystrokes. Each switch brings unique qualities to the table, and personal preference will ultimately guide the choice between them.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you find yourself in a quiet office setting or require a switch that minimizes noise while still delivering a satisfying typing experience, the Aliaz is an excellent choice. Its heavier bottom-out force gives you a solid tactile feedback that many typists appreciate, especially those who prefer a more substantial feel with muted acoustics. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and a smooth, effortless keystroke, the HMX Poro linear switch might be the better option for you. With its smoother action and light actuation, it allows for rapid key presses, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing while still providing a delightful poppy and clacky sound when you engage the keys. Ultimately, consider the context in which you will be using these switches, along with your preferences for sound, feel, and tactile feedback, to make the most informed decision.
Mentioned in this article
