TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The TTC Gold Brown switches offer a delightful tactile experience, featuring a subtle yet satisfying bump that provides feedback without overwhelming the user. Known for their balanced design, these switches boast a moderate weightiness and a rounded, softer sound profile, making them a great choice for typists who appreciate a blend of comfort and a bit of auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Poro switches present a completely different experience; they're linear switches that emphasize a silky smooth keystroke, allowing for effortless glides between key presses thanks to meticulous lubrication. With their ultra-light actuation force and poppy, clacky sound, the Poro switches cater to those who favor rapid key presses and fast-paced gaming. Both switches hold their unique charm, appealing to different users based on their preferred tactile sensations and soundscapes. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and HMX Poro switches, a notable distinction arises in the materials utilized for their top housings. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This rigidity allows for improved acoustics, resulting in a more resonant sound when keys are released. In contrast, the HMX Poro incorporates a nylon top housing, which tends to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder acoustic experience. Thus, while both switches provide unique auditory signatures, the Gold Brown is designed for clarity and brightness, while the Poro delivers a muted warmth in sound.
Despite the contrasting materials in their top housings, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings: nylon. In this case, both the Gold Brown and the Poro utilize nylon, which directly affects the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch. As nylon is a softer plastic, it helps to create a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the differences in the top housings. This means that, while the sound and acoustic characteristics during key release may differ, the overall typing experience is influenced similarly by the nylon bottom housing. The shared material provides consistency in the tactile feedback when pressed, as both will present the muted sound qualities typical of nylon.
Overall, the combination of different top materials leading to unique sound profiles, alongside the consistent influence of the nylon bottoms, demonstrates how housing materials impact overall switch performance. Users seeking a bright and crisp sound may gravitate toward the TTC Gold Brown, yet those preferring a fuller auditory experience might opt for the HMX Poro. Nevertheless, due to the shared nylon bottom housing, users can expect a similar depth and quality in the sound produced when the keys are engaged. In the world of mechanical switches, these subtle differences in materials allow enthusiasts to tailor their tactile experiences according to preference while still finding common ground in their usage of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch with a 55-gram actuation force and a 63-gram bottom out force to the HMX Poro linear switch, which features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, it's evident that the TTC Gold Brown is the heavier option. The Gold Brown's medium force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, enhancing tactile feedback during use. In contrast, the HMX Poro's lighter force can provide a more effortless typing experience, making it suitable for extended keyboard sessions without fatigue. While both switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, they cater to different preferences: those who favor a robust feel would lean towards the TTC Gold Brown, whereas those seeking a softer touch would likely prefer the HMX Poro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Gold Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and provides a more substantial feel when pressed. In contrast, the HMX Poro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This variance means that gamers or those seeking quicker response times may prefer the Poro for its quicker actuation, while users who favor a more pronounced tactile experience might opt for the Gold Brown due to its greater depth. Overall, the Gold Brown is the longer switch, offering a travel distance that some users may find more satisfying, whereas the Poro’s shorter travel may appeal to those looking for agility in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 comparing the sound of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, notable distinctions emerge. The Gold Brown offers a rounded sound profile that is softer than many other switches, delivering a balanced auditory experience that is suited for both casual and professional environments. This moderate sound level makes it ideal for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro presents a poppy and clacky sound profile, which is more vibrant and lively, enhancing the engagement of typing with its ultra-light actuation force. While the Gold Brown is designed to be neutral to accommodate various settings, the Poro's sound stands out for its more animated qualities.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown is characterized by a mild tactile sensation that provides gentle feedback with each keystroke. It has a buttery, smooth typing experience that enhances comfort, making it accessible for users of all types. This balanced tactile response is accented yet polished, providing a satisfying middle ground without overwhelming users with excessive feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch is distinguished by its lubricated, silky smooth keystrokes, allowing for a seamless glide that enhances the typing experience. The absence of tactile bumps means that the Poro focuses purely on smoothness, giving it a different type of satisfaction compared to the tactile feedback of the Gold Brown.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Poro linear switch offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gold Brown is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a balanced sound and mild tactile feedback, making it suitable for long typing sessions in various settings. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro excites users with its smooth action and lively sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer the tactile nuance of the Gold Brown or the fluidity of the HMX Poro.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, your choice should depend heavily on your typing preferences and intended use case. If you appreciate tactile feedback and a balanced experience, the Gold Brown is an excellent option. Its medium actuation force of 63 grams offers a satisfying bump that can enhance your typing feel without being overwhelming, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings. This switch's neutral sound profile also allows it to blend seamlessly into various environments without being intrusive. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smoother keystroke and enjoy the silky gliding sensation, the HMX Poro linear switch would be more to your liking. With a bottom out force of just 50 grams, the Poro is designed for effortless typing, perfect for those long gaming sessions or extended typing tasks where ease and speed are paramount. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value tactile feedback or smoothness; both options offer unique advantages that can greatly enhance your keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
