TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Poro stand out as two appealing linear options, each offering distinct advantages that cater to different user preferences. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, providing a smooth, effortless typing experience that accommodates a wide range of tasks, from gaming to typing in a professional setting. Its neutral sound profile ensures that it fits well in any auditory environment, allowing users to focus without distraction. In contrast, the HMX Poro boasts a silky-smooth actuation, enhanced by meticulous lubrication, delivering an enjoyable tactile experience characterized by a satisfying clacky sound that can invigorate your gaming or typing sessions. The Poro's ultra-light actuation force contributes to a bouncy feel that many users find delightful. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Poro switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisp and resonant. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity of sound when keys are pressed and released. Conversely, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, users seeking a crisp auditory feedback might prefer the Gold Red Pro, while those who favor a smooth and deeper sound would likely gravitate towards the HMX Poro.
However, when examining the bottom housings of both switches, we see a shared use of nylon, creating a consistent aural experience between the two models. The nylon bottom housing in the Gold Red Pro mirrors that of the HMX Poro, providing a deeper and full sound profile irrespective of the contrasting top materials. This means that the bottom-out sound produced when pressing a key will exhibit the same qualities across both switches, maintaining a certain level of sound harmony. Thus, while the top profiles differ notably, the foundational characteristics provided by nylon on the bottom housing converge, allowing for a richer auditory experience during use.
In practical terms, while the top housings of the Gold Red Pro and HMX Poro yield distinctly different sonic effects, the common nylon bottom housing ensures a shared sound foundation that complements and balances their unique auditory signatures. Users can expect similar bolstering of the sound quality when bottoms are engaged, regardless of the top material used. So, if users experiment in a setup where the emphasis is on the bottom-out sound, they may find that the richer depth characteristic of the nylon material plays a significant role in creating a satisfying tactile experience, thus bridging the sound differences brought by the distinct materials used in the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, a distinction can be made in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Gold Red Pro features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. While the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, the Poro switch has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully depress the key. Hence, the Poro switch is heavier overall due to its increased actuation and bottom out forces. For users seeking long typing sessions without fatigue, the lighter Gold Red Pro would be the better choice, whereas those who favor a firmer response may prefer the HMX Poro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Gold Red Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Poro has a slightly shorter distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Poro feel marginally more responsive, which can be advantageous for gamers who prefer quicker key actuation due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke experience, appealing to users who favor tactile feedback over sheer speed. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference: if you prioritize rapid response times, the HMX Poro would be the better option, while those who appreciate a bit more depth may find the TTC Gold Red Pro more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch strikes a balanced tone, characterized by a thocky and low-pitched resonance. Its sound signature is neutral, providing a deep, rich auditory experience that is suitable for various environments, whether in an office or a gaming setting. This versatility means it won't disrupt your surroundings, making it an excellent choice for those who value a moderate auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch presents a distinctly clacky sound profile. This sharp, bright, and crisp sound adds an engaging auditory layer to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and pronounced. While both switches provide satisfying acoustic feedback, the Gold Red Pro leans towards a more subdued sound, whereas the Poro offers a more pronounced and percussive tone.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro is renowned for its polished and mild characteristics, delivering a smooth typing experience thanks to factory lubing and refined materials. The subtle resistance allows for a gentle key press, making it particularly accessible and suitable for extended use without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch offers a bouncy, creamy, and feathery sensation. This spring-like feedback adds a playful touch to each keystroke, allowing for effortless gliding across the keys. The lighter actuation force of the Poro reduces exertion, enhancing comfort during lengthy typing sessions, though it may feel more vibrant compared to the Gold Red Pro's subdued yet consistent typing feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and HMX Poro linear switches cater to different preferences while delivering high-quality performance. The Gold Red Pro excels in versatility with its neutral sound and polished, mild feel, ideal for users who appreciate a balanced and adaptable switching experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro shines with its clacky sound profile and lively, buttery feel, appealing to those who prefer a more expressive and dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards a more moderate, refined experience or something with a bit more pop and energy.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If you value versatility and a seamless typing experience, particularly for varied environments like gaming, office work, or casual typing, then the Gold Red Pro is your best bet. Its polished feel and neutral sound ensure that it remains unobtrusive while still delivering a satisfying performance without overwhelming your auditory senses. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a lighter actuation force, a bouncy responsive feel, and a poppy sound profile, you would likely gravitate toward the HMX Poro. This switch excels in providing a creamy and effortless typing experience, perfect for long hours of use without causing finger fatigue. Thus, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a versatile, balanced experience or a lighter, more playful typing sensation.
Mentioned in this article
