Gateron CM vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and HMX Poro offer distinct experiences, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Gateron CM stands out with its full nylon housing that breaks away from traditional polycarbonate materials, resulting in a richer, deeper sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate. The silky smoothness of the keystrokes is complemented by an impeccable factory lube job and a unique, lengthened dual-staged spring that provides a bouncy and pleasurable typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches also provide an exceptionally smooth experience, enhanced by meticulous lubrication and an ultra-light actuation force that allows for effortless keystrokes. Their poppy and clacky sound profile adds a playful character to each press, making them particularly captivating for users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback. Both options bring unique attributes to the table, appealing to those who prioritize rich acoustics or light, responsive action. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and HMX Poro switches share a common characteristic in their use of nylon for both their top and bottom housings. As described, nylon is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, and both switches capitalize on this trait. The properties of nylon, being a softer material compared to harder plastics, allow it to absorb more sound during typing, leading to a rounder and more subdued audio feedback. This shared choice of material ensures that users of either switch will experience a distinctly pleasant sound environment, characterized by the same duller timbre that makes for a quieter typing experience.
While both the CM and Poro utilize nylon for their housing components, their potential sound signatures and tactile responses during use may still vary depending on aspects like the internal design, spring characteristics, and keycap profiles. Therefore, even with identical materials, the overall typing experience can differ due to these additional design elements that can affect the keystroke feel and sound when bottoming out or releasing a key. However, users can generally expect a similar auditory experience given that both switches prioritize nylon's sound-dampening qualities in their construction.
Ultimately, the combination of nylon for both top and bottom housings in the Gateron CM and HMX Poro ensures that users will enjoy similar acoustic properties, thanks to the inherent nature of the material itself. This means that regardless of which switch one might choose, the resulting typing experience will reflect the characteristics of nylon, leading to a richer and more satisfying sound. While the nuances of the overall typing experience may differ slightly due to potential design variations, the underlying material choice provides a solid foundation for a comparable sound profile that satisfies many keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge, which may influence user preference depending on typing style and comfort. The Gateron CM has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a firmer feel that some users appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who seek a softer, less fatiguing option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, while the CM is heavier overall, with both actuation and bottom out forces exceeding those of the Poro switch, the Poro offers a lighter touch that can enhance comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there is a slight difference: the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Poro measures at 3.7 mm. This makes the Gateron CM the shorter option, appealing to users who prefer a more responsive experience suitable for gaming, where faster actuation is often desired. On the other hand, the HMX Poro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile feel, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, while both switches yield a satisfying performance, those seeking quicker response times might gravitate towards the Gateron CM, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their keystrokes may opt for the HMX Poro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch delivers a rich and deeper audio profile characterized by its bassy and thocky tones. This switch produces a satisfying low-pitched sound during key presses, evoking the feeling of striking a solid surface with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch lacks a specific sound description, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat unknown. However, the CM’s more pronounced deep tones will provide a markedly different auditory experience compared to any sound profile offered by the Poro.
In terms of feel, the CM switch stands out with its buttery, polished, and creamy sensation, providing an effortless gliding experience with each keystroke. The factory lubrication and materials contribute to a frictionless typing sensation, making each press smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, while the specific feel of the HMX Poro is not detailed, the CM's sophisticated tactile experience suggests that they will offer a significantly different typing journey, particularly in smoothness and overall fluidity.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a unique combination of deep, resonant sound and a remarkably smooth tactile experience thanks to its nylon housing and factory lubrication. In contrast, details regarding the sound and feel of the HMX Poro linear switch remain unspecified, potentially leaving a gap in comparative analysis. While both switches are anticipated to deliver enjoyable typing encounters, the CM's known attributes may lead to a more enriching experience, especially for those who prioritize auditory feedback and tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, one can expect to enjoy a smooth typing action with both switches, though the CM will likely provide a clearer advantage in sound and tactile sensation due to its detailed characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a medium-heavy typing experience that combines a rich, bassy sound profile with a smooth, buttery feel, the Gateron CM is an excellent choice. Its 63.5 grams actuation force and expertly lubricated mechanism provide a satisfying depth in acoustics, making it particularly suitable for those who enjoy a tactile, thocky typing sensation while possibly adding an auditory layer to your gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lighter, more responsive switch that allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, the HMX Poro would be more suitable. With its 50 grams bottom out force and satisfying sound, characterized by a poppy and clacky tone, the Poro excels in environments where rapid key presses are essential, such as gaming. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing habits and sensory preferences when making your decision.
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