Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Poro stand out for their distinct characteristics tailored to different typing experiences. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are celebrated for their clicky nature, offering users an audible confirmation with each keystroke, which can enhance typing accuracy and provide satisfying feedback for those who enjoy a tactile sensation. Conversely, the HMX Poro switches present a smoother, linear experience characterized by their silky keystrokes and meticulously lubricated mechanisms, resulting in a quiet yet poppy and clacky sound profile. While the Box White V2 is ideal for typists who appreciate the interruption of sound and feel during their work, the Poro caters to users seeking a more fluid and effortless typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Poro switches feature distinctly different top housing materials, contributing to their unique sound profiles. The Box White V2 uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and more resonant sound due to the material's stiffness. This particularly suits enthusiasts seeking a higher-pitched and crisper audio experience, especially beneficial when utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective light diffusion. In contrast, the HMX Poro incorporates a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which dampens sound, resulting in a less harsh auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, their top housing materials create notably different soundscapes.
Interestingly, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, which supports a fuller sound profile for both models. This alignment in materials results in a consistency in the lower sound frequencies they offer. Despite the differences in top housing, the shared nylon material used in the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience retains that characteristic soft cushioning effect common to switches with nylon bottoms, leading to a deeper auditory experience on bottom-out. This means that while users may enjoy the higher pitch and clarity of the Box White V2 when releasing keys, both switches offer a satisfying depth in sound during keypresses, demonstrating the influence of the nylon material.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials and the shared nylon bottom housing means that the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Poro switches can provide similar overall results, albeit through different acoustic pathways. Users can expect a crisp response with the Box White V2, especially notable when letting go of keys, while enjoying the fuller sound characteristic when bottoming out, thanks to the nylon housing shared with the Poro. This nuanced differentiation means that both switch types cater to a spectrum of preferences; some may favor the clarity of polycarbonate, while others might appreciate the deeper and fuller resonance provided by nylon.
Weight
The Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Poro switches both feature the same actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally lightweight options. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches, allowing for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without excessive fatigue. The consistent actuation and bottom out forces provide a balanced feel, appealing to those who appreciate a lighter touch while still delivering enough resistance to prevent accidental key presses. Therefore, individuals seeking a switch with a lighter overall feel will find both the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Poro to be ideal choices, as they offer a similar responsiveness and tactile engagement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Poro has a slightly longer travel distance at 3.7 mm. With only a 0.1 mm difference, the Box White V2 is the shorter option, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who favor quicker response times. On the other hand, the Poro's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Box White V2 offering a snappier action and the Poro providing a more substantial depth. So, if you're looking for something with less travel for faster interactions, the Box White V2 would be your go-to, whereas if you enjoy a bit more travel, the Poro would be the better choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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
The sound profile of the Kailh Box White V2 switch is characterized by its crisp and distinctive audible click, creating a definitive, satisfying auditory feedback that many typists enjoy. This clicky sound is not just loud but also sharp, adding a layer of engagement during typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a more subdued yet lively auditory experience, described as clacky, which delivers a bright and percussive sound. The clacky nature of the Poro switch provides a fun and entertaining keystroke experience, but it may lack the definitive click that typists often seek in a clicky switch like the Box White V2. Both sound profiles can be influenced by the board and keycaps used, allowing for further customization of the auditory experience.
When considering the feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switch offers a tactile feedback that many find rewarding, with a defined bump at the actuation point that confirms each keystroke. This tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience, making it easier to perceive when keys have been activated. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes and a unique combination of sensations including bounciness, creaminess, and featheriness. Typing on a Poro switch feels effortless, thanks to its lubrication, while the bouncy nature offers a lively rebounding effect after pressing a key. The creamy aspect adds to the luxurious feel, making each keystroke glide seamlessly, whereas the feathery quality reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions, providing a different, more relaxed typing experience.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Poro linear switches cater to distinct preferences in both sound and feel. Those who appreciate pronounced auditory feedback and tactile sensation may gravitate towards the Box White V2 for its clicky nature. Meanwhile, those seeking a smooth, effortless experience with lively feedback might prefer the HMX Poro for its creamy and feather-light nature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual typing styles and sound preferences, ensuring that regardless of choice, users can enjoy an engaging mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy the tactile sensation of a clicky switch coupled with a distinct audible feedback, the Box White V2 is your go-to option. Its crisp click can enhance your typing experience, making it particularly satisfying for those who type frequently or enjoy hearing the sounds of their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless keystroke with bouncy, creamy feedback, the HMX Poro linear switch is likely to suit you better. The Poro offers a soft touch and light activation, ideal for prolonged periods of typing or gaming without causing finger fatigue. Additionally, if you're drawn to a clacky sound profile that provides a lively auditory experience, the Poro will meet your needs more effectively. Consider how you use your keyboard—whether for typing, gaming, or a mix of both—to make the best choice for your setup, ensuring a satisfying and comfortable experience tailored to your preferences.
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