Bsun Hutt vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch. The Hutt switch is renowned for its medium-heavy spring and prominent tactile bump, offering a snappy and invigorating feedback that many typists find both satisfying and engaging. Its balanced sound profile adds to the distinct typing experience while enhancing focus and precision, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a tactile sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch is designed for users who prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience. With its ultra-light actuation force and meticulous lubrication, the Poro glide effortlessly, complemented by a poppy and clacky sound that appeals to gamers and typists alike who favor rapid key presses and a quieter operation. Both switches cater to different preferences and styles, making them appealing in their own right; 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
49g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Hutt and HMX Poro switches present a fascinating contrast in terms of their top housing, while showcasing similarities in their bottom housing. The Bsun Hutt features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for a more resonant sound upon key release. In contrast, the HMX Poro employs a nylon top housing that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon tends to be a softer material that absorbs more sound. This absorption contributes to a rounder auditory experience, making the typing feedback feel different when compared to the Bsun Hutt.
However, the construction of the bottom housings in both switches showcases a similarity, with both the Bsun Hutt and HMX Poro opting for nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper sound profile that is characterized by a softened noise response. This shared bottom housing material means that when using either the Hutt or the Poro, a deeper and more rounded bottom-out sound can be expected, facilitating a consistent auditory experience as users press the keys down. Consequently, although the top housings exhibit contrasting characteristics, the nylon bottom housing effectively provides a foundation that standardizes certain auditory experiences between both switches.
In summary, while the Bsun Hutt and HMX Poro differ in their top housing materials—leading to distinct sound profiles upon key release—their shared nylon bottom housings harmonize the typing experience by emphasizing deeper sound qualities. This interplay between different materials allows each switch to maintain its unique character while still offering similar results in terms of sound satisfaction. Thus, users can appreciate the nuanced auditory experiences delivered by each switch, while recognizing the common foundation that the nylon bottoms provide.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Hutt tactile switch to the HMX Poro linear switch, both switches exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but the Hutt is slightly lighter overall. The Hutt has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 49 grams, while the Poro requires 45 grams for actuation and bottoms out at 50 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch will find the Hutt more accommodating, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming. Conversely, the Poro, with its marginally heavier forces, may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, though both switches are on the lighter side, the Hutt provides a more effortless typing experience compared to the slightly firmer Poro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Hutt switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Poro switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference indicates that the Hutt switch may provide a more responsive feel, which could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker key presses. In contrast, the Poro switch's 3.7 mm travel distance offers a more traditional depth, appealing to users who prefer a bit more heft in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you're looking for that snappier response, the Hutt is the better choice, while for those who appreciate a more substantial key press, the Poro is the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Bsun Hutt tactile switch offers a resonant quality that results in a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp auditory experience. This sound profile adds an engaging layer to your typing, as it becomes an integral part of the feedback loop while you type. However, the HMX Poro linear switch does not have a specific sound profile described, leaving its acoustic qualities somewhat ambiguous. That said, linear switches are generally quieter than tactile or clicky switches, so the Poro may present a more subdued sound, but this can vary based on the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Hutt switch truly shines with its snappy, invigorating action. The pronounced tactile bump provides a sharp and crisp feedback with every keypress, allowing for a highly responsive experience. The medium-heavy spring adds to this engaging touch, making each keystroke feel alive and satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is known for its silky smoothness, making for an effortless typing experience. While it lacks the tactile feedback that characterizes the Hutt, the Poro delivers a glide that many users find pleasant, especially if they appreciate a smooth keystroke devoid of interruption.
In summary, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch stands out for its resonant sound and invigorating tactile feedback, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy a more active typing experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a smooth and quiet operation, ideal for users who prioritize a seamless keystroke. Although both switches cater to different preferences, the choice ultimately depends on whether one values the tactile sensation and sound of the Hutt or the streamlined, gentle touch of the Poro. Each switch promises a unique typing experience, ensuring that users can find what best suits their individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, your decision should be guided by your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you are looking for. If you cherish a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the Hutt switch is an excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile bump, snappy responsiveness, and a sound profile that offers an engaging auditory experience. Its medium-heavy spring and light bottom-out force make it suitable for both typing and gaming, allowing you to enjoy a balance of familiarity and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth and silky keystrokes along with a quieter operation, the HMX Poro linear switch would be more aligned with your needs. The Poro’s lubricated mechanism ensures an effortless glide, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while its less pronounced sound profile may suit environments where noise is a consideration. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so reflect on what you value most in your keyboard experience before making your choice.