HMX Jelly vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and HMX Poro offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, providing a unique auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. Its lightweight actuation force of 42g and exceptional factory lube contribute to a remarkably smooth keystroke, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a refined typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Poro entices users with its silky smooth keystrokes and a more poppy, clacky sound profile, offering an effortlessly gliding experience thanks to its ultra-light actuation force. While both switches are designed for linear enthusiasts, the Jelly favors a deeper audio experience and a well-balanced actuation weight, whereas the Poro focuses on a lighter touch and an engaging sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and HMX Poro switches share a commonality in their housing materials, both utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This decision underscores the advantages of nylon as a classic switch housing material. The nylon used in both switches contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile that typifies the typing experience. Being a softer plastic, nylon is adept at absorbing sound waves, which results in a sound that is dulled and rounder compared to harder plastics. Consequently, users of both the Jelly and Poro switches will enjoy a consistent auditory experience characterized by rich acoustics, no matter which switch they choose.
Additionally, the uniformity in housing materials ensures that the tactile responses when typing are similar across both switch types. The contribution of the bottom housing, made of nylon in both the Jelly and Poro models, is particularly important as it influences the overall feel and sound when the switch bottoms out. As users press down on either switch, they will experience the impact of the nylon bottom housing, which offers a satisfying tactile feedback that is consistent between the two models. This shared characteristic allows for a familiar typing sensation, making the choice between Jelly and Poro more about personal preference rather than drastic differences in performance.
While the HMX Jelly and HMX Poro utilize the same materials, the design and engineering nuances could still yield different experiences despite the shared material properties. For instance, if the switches were to feature different internal components or spring tensions, users might notice variances in actuation force and overall responsiveness. However, because both switches employ nylon for their housing, the fundamental aspects of sound absorption and tactile feedback remain consistent, assuring users that they will achieve similar results in terms of sound profile and feel. Therefore, whether opting for the HMX Jelly or Poro, users can expect a quality typing experience rooted in the classic benefits of nylon housing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both switches are characterized by relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Jelly switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Poro switch requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Jelly switch the lighter option between the two, appealing to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the Poro switch, being marginally heavier, may cater to those who appreciate a sturdier push feel and a more tactile typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches fall into the same category of light forces, which would provide users with a generally similar typing result in terms of ease of key activation.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive keypress suitable for fast-paced gaming, the Poro’s shorter distance could offer quicker actuation. However, this shorter travel might feel a bit abrupt for some users who prefer a more substantial feedback. On the other hand, the Jelly's travel distance provides a bit more depth, catering to those who enjoy a more tactile experience while typing or gaming. Thus, the Jelly is the longer option at 3.8 mm, while the Poro is the shorter switch at 3.7 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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, the HMX Jelly switch is characterized by a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which many users find satisfying and reminiscent of a more traditional keyboard sound. This creates a rich auditory experience that many typists appreciate. Conversely, the HMX Poro switch delivers a poppy and clacky sound profile, which contrasts sharply with the Jelly's deeper tones. This higher-pitched acoustics can provide a lively and energizing typing experience. It's important to note that the sound characteristics of each switch can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch is recognized for its super smooth keystrokes, largely attributed to its excellent factory lubrication, and a lightweight actuation force of 42g that allows for effortless typing. This combination can make it particularly appealing for users who favor a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch also offers smooth keystrokes, enhanced further by meticulous lubrication, and features an ultra-light actuation force. The difference lies in its tactile feedback, which many users describe as pleasantly poppy, adding a slight tactile element that makes each keypress feel distinct, in contrast to the Jelly's more uniform feel.
Considering both sound and feel, the HMX Jelly switch provides a deep thocky sound and a notably smooth typing experience, while the HMX Poro switch offers a livelier clack and a silky glide with a distinct tactile feedback. If you choose either switch, expect a delightful typing experience, yet the choice boils down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches are designed to deliver satisfying performance, and the decision will hinge on whether one prefers a smooth, muted experience or a lively, tactile engagement.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Jelly and HMX Poro linear switches, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel during your typing or gaming experience. If you enjoy a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature and appreciate an ultra-smooth typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Jelly switches would be your best bet. Their lightweight characteristics, combined with excellent factory lubrication, make them ideal for extended typing sessions where comfort and acoustics are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a more poppy and clacky sound profile, the Poro switches might be the way to go. Their silky smooth keystrokes enhance your overall experience, especially for fast-paced gaming or those who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, consider your priorities in terms of sound and tactile feedback to make the most suitable choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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