TTC Bluish White vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between various switch types, each offering a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The TTC Bluish White switches stand out as a tactile option, providing a satisfyingly poppy feedback mechanism that delights users with a notably snappy sound profile. With their characteristics of being buttery, mild, and low-pitched, these switches are ideal for those who enjoy a responsive feel and audible confirmation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches cater to fans of linear switches, characterized by their silky smooth keystrokes and ultra-light actuation force. These meticulously lubricated switches offer an effortless glide, transforming typing into a seamless experience without the tactile bump. While the Bluish White is perfect for those who savor tactile feedback and auditory cues, the Poro appeals to users seeking a fluid and quiet typing motion. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the HMX Poro distinguish themselves primarily through the materials used in their top housings. The Bluish White employs a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the transparency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for those who want to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through more vividly. In contrast, the HMX Poro uses a nylon top housing that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, giving the Poro a more rounded acoustic character. This fundamental difference between the two materials sets the stage for contrasting auditory experiences when typing.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find common ground in the use of nylon. Both the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Poro feature nylon in their bottom housings, which is a classic material for switch construction. This consistency in bottom housing material means that, regardless of the differences in top housing, users will experience a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out the switches. The softer nature of nylon serves to cushion the impact when the key is pressed down, thereby producing a more muted sound upon bottoming out. This similarity provides a consistent tactile experience across both switches despite their contrasting top housings.
In summary, while the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Poro vary in their top housing compositions, the similarity in their nylon bottom housings helps to create a bridge between the two. Users can anticipate a clear differentiation in sound quality due to the polycarbonate and nylon pairing in the top, but will find a pleasing consistency in bottom-out sensation thanks to the nylon material. Consequently, those looking for a distinct auditory experience with the Bluish White will encounter sharper sounds, while users of the HMX Poro will enjoy a subdued auditory experience, yet both will share a familiar feel and performance when engaging with the bottom housings of their respective switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both switches exhibit a similar bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to fully depress the key. However, the actuation forces differ slightly; the Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Poro switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference means that typists or gamers may find the Bluish White switch easier to actuate, making it more suitable for extended use without fatigue. Conversely, the Poro's heavier actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side, the TTC Bluish White is the lighter option, providing a softer response for those who prioritize ease of use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Poro measures slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This means that the Bluish White offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Conversely, the Poro’s longer travel distance may be more suitable for users who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In choosing between these two options, those favoring responsiveness would likely opt for the TTC Bluish White, while those who appreciate a sense of depth in their keystrokes might lean towards the HMX Poro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch produces a snappy, low-pitched auditory feedback, delivering a pleasant bass-heavy tone that can be satisfying for typists who enjoy a more mellow sound profile. This is in contrast to the HMX Poro linear switch, which boasts an ultra-light actuation force that contributes to its clacky and poppy sound. While both switches can elicit an engaging auditory experience, the Bluish White's deeper sound may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued yet pronounced acoustic signature, whereas the Poro's lighter sound can create an airy and lively atmosphere. It's important to note that the overall sound will be influenced by the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, so these characteristics may blend together differently depending on your setup.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White switch offers a complex tactile experience featuring buttery keystrokes with mild resistance, making typing smooth and fluid. The stepped nature of the switch produces a gentle pre-travel bump, while the subtle design ensures that the typing experience remains approachable without overwhelming tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is designed for an incredibly smooth and effortless glide, though specific descriptors for its tactile qualities were not provided. While the Poro excels in delivering an uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bumps, the tactile feedback from the Bluish White caters to those who appreciate a nuanced typing feel that is still forgiving and accommodating.
In summary, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and HMX Poro linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Bluish White offers a more tactile and low-pitched sound with a fluid typing experience, ideal for users who enjoy pronounced acoustic feedback and mild tactile sensations. On the other hand, the HMX Poro presents an ultra-light and smooth sound profile, providing a direct and continuous keystroke experience without the interruption of tactile bumps. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference, but either can deliver satisfying results based on your typing style and the overall setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, consider the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a tactile feel that combines a snappy sound profile with a buttery and polished typing experience, the Bluish White switch is ideal for you. It's particularly suited for those who enjoy feedback when typing, as the stepped tactile response allows for a satisfying keystroke that can enhance your overall productivity. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more seamless and ultra-smooth typing experience, the HMX Poro linear switch may be your best choice. With its meticulously lubricated design, it offers a fluid glide without the interruptions of tactile bumps, making it perfect for fast typists or gamers who need rapid and uninterrupted keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth linear action, as both switches accommodate different preferences and use cases effectively.
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