Gateron Beer vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, the Gateron Beer and HMX Poro are two intriguing options, each offering distinct characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Gateron Beer switch, with its vibrant translucent green housing, captures the allure of a refreshing Tsingtao beer. Known for its lightweight design and stepped tactile feedback, it provides a unique feel that balances subtlety with a clear tactile bump, making it ideal for those who appreciate both feedback and a clacky sound profile that adds an engaging auditory dimension to every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch takes a different approach with its smooth, linear action. This switch is engineered for effortless keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that minimizes friction for a glide that's practically butter-like. With an ultra-light actuation force and a satisfyingly poppy sound, the Poro is perfect for users who favor speed and consistency without the interruption of tactile bumps. Ultimately, while both switches offer compelling advantages, the choice between tactile engagement and linear smoothness comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

HMX Poro Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer switches and the HMX Poro switches, a clear distinction arises in their compositions that significantly influences the acoustic experience they provide. The Beer switches employ a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, known for their rigidity and stiffness. This characteristic allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, effectively producing a clear and resonant audio output. The translucency of polycarbonate is another essential factor, making it an excellent choice for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can effectively pass through the clear housing, creating visually appealing effects. In contrast, the HMX Poro switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which is a staple material known for its softer properties. This material inherently absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory experience, characterized by a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper notes produced by the Gateron Beer.

The differences in housing materials lead to distinct sensory feedback during usage, with each switch delivering a unique typing experience based on its construction. As previously mentioned, the Gateron Beer's polycarbonate housing contributes to a more pronounced sound during typing, providing users with a bright and resonant feedback that can be ideal for those who prefer a more lively auditory environment. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the HMX Poro caters to those who may favor a quieter typing experience, with softer sound outputs that lend themselves to an immersive and less disruptive atmosphere. Importantly, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel cannot be overlooked. The Gateron Beer, with its polycarbonate bottom, will produce a crisper bottom-out experience, while the nylon bottom of the HMX Poro enhances the deep, rounded characteristics of its sound profile.

Even with the disparity in materials, both the Gateron Beer and HMX Poro switches can achieve similar outcomes regarding their utility and responsiveness. The polycarbonate and nylon housings influence the overall sound experience and feel distinctly but complement the mechanical functions of the switches. For users seeking an engaging sound profile with highlights during key releases, the Beer switches deliver just that, while the Poro switches offer a harmonious and subdued feedback. While aesthetically and acoustically different, such variations in housing materials can cater to diverse preferences among users; individuals can find satisfaction regardless of their choice by tailoring their keyboard experience to better fit their desired sound characteristics and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Beer switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, as it contributes to reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Poro switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer tactile feedback. However, both switches share an equal bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that the resistance felt when pressing the switches all the way down is consistent. For users seeking an easier typing experience, the Beer is the preferable option, while those looking for a firmer feel might gravitate toward the Poro.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Gateron Beer features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Poro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Beer switch the shorter option, which can be advantageous for users seeking a quicker response time, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Poro's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience, as it offers a bit more depth during keystrokes. In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer provides a more responsive feel, the HMX Poro caters to users who appreciate a greater depth in their key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch has a distinctly clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be categorized as crisp, bright, and percussive. This characteristic adds a certain liveliness to typing that many enthusiasts appreciate, enhancing the overall experience of using the keyboard. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the HMX Poro linear switch are less documented, but it is mentioned that they also have a poppy and clacky sound profile. However, the nuances of this sound may differ due to the inherent nature of linear switches, which typically produce a softer sound when compared to their tactile counterparts. It’s important to note that the sound can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap materials.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer is designed to provide an easy-to-press experience, characterized by gentle resistance and a lightweight actuation force. This feature not only makes the keys effortless to activate but also reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, allowing for comfortable and prolonged use. The Beer switch employs a stepped tactile design, which means that users will experience two distinct stages during a keystroke, offering a sense of direction and feedback that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is engineered for smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated for an effortless glide. While the Poro switch lacks the tactile bump found in the Beer switch, its smoothness contributes to a fluid typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize seamless key presses over tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switches provide a lively, clacky sound and a lightweight, stepped tactile feel, making them ideal for typists who enjoy both auditory and tactile feedback. Meanwhile, while the HMX Poro linear switches promise a smooth typing experience with a unique sound profile, specifics regarding their tactile feedback are less clear. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences: the Beer for those who value tactile feedback combined with an enjoyable acoustic experience, and the Poro for users who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes and a smoother, quieter typing sensation. If you’re looking for a lively typing experience with some tactile feedback, the Beer is a great choice, while the Poro excels in delivering an effortlessly smooth feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile feedback experience that is gentle yet noticeable, the Beer switch may be your best option. Its lightweight design and stepped tactile feel provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, particularly suited for those who engage in extended typing sessions while appreciating a sound signature with a distinct clacky character. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-smooth keystroke that glides effortlessly under your fingers, the Poro linear switch is the way to go. Its silky feel and poppy sound profile are ideal for fast-paced typists or gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness, without the interruption of tactile bumps. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the charming tactility of the Beer or the seamless flow of the Poro will shape how you enjoy your typing experience, so consider what aspects are most important to you as you make your selection.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more