Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Poro each offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switches are celebrated for their innovative CAP structure, which not only provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes but also minimizes wobble, thanks to their aerodynamic design and enlarged, hollowed-out stem post. This results in a typing experience that feels snappy, creamy, and polished, making it an excellent choice for those who value precision and comfort in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches are meticulously lubricated to ensure an effortless glide, coupled with a satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile due to their ultra-light actuation force. While the Poro switches deliver a cheerful auditory experience that can enhance gaming and typing fun, the CAP Anniversary excels in stability and smoothness. Both switches appeal to distinct user needs and preferences in the keyboard landscape; 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Poro switches, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This particular material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's ability to effectively transmit light makes it ideal for RGB lighting configurations, enhancing both the aesthetic and auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more vibrations. The choice of nylon gives the Poro a more subdued auditory output, which can appeal to those favoring a rounded and muted keystroke sound.
While the top housings of both switches differ significantly in material and sound quality, their bottom housings present an opportunity for comparison due to the shared use of nylon in both models. The nylon bottom housing in the CAP Anniversary imparts the same absorbent qualities characteristic of nylon, leading to a deeper sound that complements the overall typing experience. This similarity means that, despite the contrasting top materials, both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of lower-end tonal depth. The softer nature of nylon allows for a cushioning effect upon bottoming out, making both switches feel similar in that respect and offering a more pleasant typing experience for users who appreciate a muted bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings shapes the overall sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by the user. In the case of the Gateron CAP Anniversary, the sharper sound from the polycarbonate top housing is somewhat tempered by the fuller, rounder base provided by the nylon bottom. Conversely, the HMX Poro, with its uniformly nylon construction, delivers a consistently lush and subdued feel. While their designs differ in aesthetics and auditory qualities, both switches share a common ground due to the nylon utilized in their bottom housings. This shared characteristic promotes similar overall experiences in the realm of typing feel, even as they diverge in sound profile due to their distinct top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Poro is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Poro more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, allowing for longer usage without fatigue. Meanwhile, the heavier CAP Anniversary offers a more substantial feel, catering to those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, if users prefer a lighter touch for extended sessions or gaming, the HMX Poro would be the more advantageous choice, while the CAP Anniversary may appeal to those seeking a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it is evident that they differ notably. The CAP Anniversary has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Poro features a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference means that the CAP Anniversary is likely to provide a more pronounced tactile experience, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper press. On the other hand, the HMX Poro, with its shorter travel distance, is more suited for gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can facilitate faster key actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for depth versus responsiveness, but both switches offer a range of experiences based on their varying travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 profile, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switches are relatively quiet, providing a subdued and smooth typing experience. This makes them suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept low. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switches offer a more distinct sound due to their ultra-light actuation force, which results in a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile. This difference means that the Poro may be more suited for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback from their keystrokes, adding an engaging layer to the typing experience. However, it's important to remember that sound can be influenced by factors like keycap choice and the keyboard plate, which means each switch can sound different depending on the overall setup.
Regarding the feel, the CAP Anniversary switches stand out with their remarkable combination of snappy, creamy, and polished qualities. The snappy responsiveness gives the switches a lively typing experience, while the creamy texture provides a buttery smoothness that glides effortlessly under your fingers. The polished finish ensures reduced friction, adding to their overall sleekness. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Poro linear switches centers around their meticulous lubrication, promoting an effortlessly smooth glide. However, the specific tactile qualities of the Poro switches remain less detailed, making it challenging to compare their sensations directly against the well-defined qualities of the CAP Anniversary.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and HMX Poro linear switches aim to provide a smooth typing experience, they differ in their sound profiles, with the Poro being more pronounced and poppy, while the CAP Anniversary remains quieter and subtler. The CAP Anniversary switches also boast a rich range of feel descriptors, showcasing their dynamic typing experience, whereas the feel of the Poro remains less defined despite its silky smooth nature. Ultimately, depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can offer stimulating experiences, ensuring that users can find enjoyment in either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and enjoy a typing experience that feels snappy and creamy, the CAP Anniversary switches will likely suit you well. Their unique CAP structure provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stability, making them ideal for those who appreciate precision and responsiveness in their typing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a light touch with a 50-gram actuation force, the Poro switches are an excellent choice. With their finely lubricated, silky smooth keystrokes and a satisfyingly poppy sound profile, these switches cater to users who enjoy a softer, more effortless typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing, the Poro may resonate more with you. In summary, select the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial, refined feel and the Poro if you favor a lighter, more playful typing experience.
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