Keygeek Briny vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, each option brings its own unique characteristics to the typing experience. The Keygeek Briny is renowned for its balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it a strong contender for those who appreciate a muted yet satisfying feedback. This switch offers a reliable linear feel that caters to typists looking for consistent keystrokes without the distraction of noise. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch promises a silky smooth typing experience that elevates the glide of your fingers across the keys. Lubricated for effortless motion, the Poro switch excites users with its poppy and clacky sound profile, appealing particularly to those who enjoy a lively auditory response. While the Briny leans towards a more discreet performance, the Poro embraces a playful and responsive character. Both switches have their merits, depending on whether you prioritize sound dynamics or the feeling of fluidity when typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your personal typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Poro are strikingly similar, as each features nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This staple material is renowned in the mechanical switch community for its sound-absorbing properties and overall feel. When typing on switches made with nylon, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more satisfying and muted auditory experience. As both the Briny and Poro utilize nylon throughout, it is anticipated that they will produce similar acoustics, allowing for a consistently enjoyably typing experience.

The composition of the two switches ensures that the characteristics of the nylon material extend consistently throughout the typing experience. Both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Poro leverage the softer plastic qualities of nylon to promote a rounder sound profile. The absorption of sound by the nylon top and bottom housings aids in reducing crisp, high-pitched tones typically associated with harder plastics. Consequently, typing on either switch will yield a pleasant tactile feedback, making them ideal for typists seeking a muted keystroke without sacrificing the overall performance of the switch.

Despite the identical material choices, the overall typing experience may still be influenced by design specifics and switch variants offered by each brand. If any differences exist in the engineering or construction of the switches, they could affect aspects like actuation feel, bottom-out impact, and sound signature. However, given the shared reliance on nylon for both the top and bottom housings, it is likely that both switches will maintain a level of consistency in sound production and tactile sensation. Ultimately, users can expect a comparable auditory experience, underscored by the commonality in housing materials between the Briny and Poro switches.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying typing preferences. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, resulting in a medium tactile experience. In contrast, the Poro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch. This means that the Briny will provide a more substantial typing experience, ideal for users who enjoy a heavier feel when typing, while the Poro is perfect for extended use due to its lighter forces, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or work. Overall, the Briny is the heavier option, whereas the Poro is the lighter switch, appealing to different user preferences based on their typing habits.

Travel distance

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch exhibit slight differences in their travel distances, with the Briny measuring 3.6 mm and the Poro at 3.7 mm. This makes the Briny the shorter option and the Poro the longer one, albeit by just 0.1 mm. While both switches have similar travel distances, the Briny's shorter distance may appeal more to gamers seeking quick response times, whereas the Poro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more traditional feel for users who prefer deeper keystrokes. If you opt for either switch, you'll likely experience comparable feedback, making your choice dependent on your preference for a more responsive touch or a more substantial keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch features a balanced sound profile produced by its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This balanced sound implies a smooth, unobtrusive noise that won't disturb your surroundings. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is characterized by a notably poppy and clacky sound profile, which is sharp and snappy when pressed. This crisp, bright sound contributes a more energetic auditory experience that some users may find satisfying, especially in gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. However, keep in mind that the overall sound can be influenced by various factors like keycap material and the keyboard construction itself.

When it comes to feel, the Briny switch lacks a clear description, leaving its tactile response somewhat unknown. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch is celebrated for its bouncy and creamy sensations. The bounciness offers a delightful spring-like feedback, contributing to a lively typing experience, while the creamy texture ensures a smooth, buttery glide that enhances comfort during extended use. Additionally, the Poro's feathery lightness reduces finger fatigue, making each keystroke feel almost effortless. This combination of qualities allows for a typing experience that many users will find particularly enjoyable and fatigue-free.

Overall, while the Briny switch provides a balanced sound profile and its tactile feel remains less defined, the HMX Poro switch excels with its clacky sound and a diverse array of tactile sensations ranging from bouncy to creamy and feathery. For those prioritizing auditory feedback and responsive typing feel, the Poro would likely be the preferable choice. However, if a more muted sound is desired, the Briny could be a suitable option, with both switches ultimately catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a balanced sound profile, the Briny is an excellent choice, especially for a typing experience that feels satisfying without being overly taxing on your fingers. This switch is ideal for those who like a more subtle auditory feedback and do not want the keys to feel too light or fluffy. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter actuation force for quick responses, or if you desire a more vivacious sound and tactile feedback, the HMX Poro is the better option. With its silky smooth keystrokes and a satisfyingly bouncy and clacky feel, it’s perfect for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions where minimal finger fatigue is a priority. In essence, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you seek a more robust and balanced experience with the Briny or a feather-light, poppy, and creamy experience with the Poro.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more