Durock Koala vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Koala and HMX Poro present two distinct yet enticing options. The Durock Koala, with its tactile design, offers a satisfying middle ground for typists who appreciate a noticeable keystroke feedback without excessive noise; featuring a stepped tactility, it provides a prominent bump that delivers just the right amount of punch, while its low-pitched resonance maintains a relatively quiet profile. On the other hand, the HMX Poro shines with its linear mechanism, catering to those who favor a silky smooth typing experience. These switches are meticulously lubricated, allowing for effortless keystrokes and a poppy, clacky sound that appeals to gamers and fast typists alike. While the Koala emphasizes tactile feedback and a balanced sound, the Poro prioritizes smoothness and sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Koala Tactile

HMX Poro Linear

$5.50

$4.21 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Koala and the HMX Poro, there are distinct differences that contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. The Koala employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to create a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. This material enhances clarity and resonance, making it especially beneficial for users interested in RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the Poro features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that tends to absorb more sound, producing a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, the choice of top housing materials significantly influences the acoustic characteristics of each switch.

However, both the Durock Koala and the HMX Poro share a commonality in their bottom housing construction, as both models utilize nylon. This shared material means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar depth and fullness in sound, which originates from the nylon's ability to absorb sound and dampen vibrations. The nylon composition in both bottom housings creates a baseline signature that enhances the overall typing experience, making the bottom-out sound feel more satisfying and grounded. In this regard, despite the contrasting top housing materials, a consistent auditory characteristic is preserved through the use of nylon in the bottom.

Ultimately, the combination of the different top materials with the shared nylon bottom significantly shapes the user experience. With the Koala's sharper and more resonant polycarbonate top, users may find the release of each key to be more pronounced, while the Poro's softer nylon top contributes to a more subdued and rounded sound during actuation. The critical takeaway is that each switch leverages its unique materials to create distinct auditory signatures; however, the use of nylon as a bottom housing in both models ensures a common ground for sound absorption and tactile satisfaction, bringing together the best of both worlds. Thus, users can expect different sound profiles based on their preference for sharper or deeper tones, while still enjoying a similar foundation in typing experience across both switches.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Koala tactile switch with the HMX Poro linear switch, a clear difference emerges in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Koala's actuation force is unspecified, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Poro switch has a measurable actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter option overall. This means that the Poro switch offers a softer touch when typing, which can be more comfortable for extended use or during long gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier bottom out force of the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience that some users might prefer for a tactile feedback. Overall, the Koala is the heavier option and should appeal to those who favor a stronger push feel, while the Poro caters to users seeking a lighter touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it's clear that they have different characteristics. The Durock Koala features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, whereas the HMX Poro measures 3.7 mm, which is shorter. This difference may affect user preference significantly: those who enjoy a more pronounced key press might favor the Koala’s deeper travel for a satisfying tactile feel, while gamers or users seeking faster response times might lean towards the Poro's shorter travel, which can feel more immediate and responsive. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding key depth and feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Durock Koala tactile switch is characterized by its low-pitched, mellow tone, which offers a more bass-heavy resonance without being overly loud. This neutrality in sound makes it versatile, ensuring it can fit a variety of environments, from quiet home settings to more dynamic workspaces where clarity is essential. In contrast, while the sound profile of the HMX Poro linear switch is not explicitly detailed, it is noted for its "poppy and clacky" sound, thanks to its ultra-light actuation force. This suggests that the Poro's sound may lean toward a higher-pitched, more pronounced auditory feedback, allowing for an engaging typing experience that contrasts with the subtler acoustics of the Koala.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Koala excels in providing a polished and accented typing experience. The polished nature indicates a smooth, refined finish, significantly reducing friction during key travel. The stepped design creates a defined bump in the keystroke, allowing typists to enjoy a medium tactile feedback that isn't overwhelming, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned users. The stiffness of the Koala adds a layer of resistance, requiring more force to actuate, which can be appealing for those who prefer a deliberate typing experience. The HMX Poro linear switch, however, is noted for its silky smooth action, suggesting a lack of tactile feedback that allows for effortless gliding across the keys. Without the added texture of tactility, the Poro may appeal to those who prioritize a smoother, more fluid keystroke.

In conclusion, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a balanced combination of sound and feel, presenting a low-pitched, neutral tone alongside a polished, stepped tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch presents a more pronounced acoustic feedback that is poppy and clacky with a focus on a smooth, light keypress. While the qualities of the Koala make for a tactile and refined typing session, the Poro embraces a fluid approach with its linear design. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver satisfying experiences, whether one favors the tactile bump of the Koala or the effortless glide of the Poro.

Conclusion

Ultimately, choosing between the Durock Koala tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile experience that offers a pronounced bump without being excessively loud, the Koala is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams makes it well-suited for those who appreciate a firmer keypress. This can be particularly beneficial for typing and gaming, providing feedback that can enhance your precision while maintaining a comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, the HMX Poro linear switch may be the better option for you. With a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Poro is designed for effortless keystrokes, ideal for long typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. Its silky smooth action and satisfying sound profile cater to users who enjoy a more fluid experience without the tactile feedback. Therefore, consider how you plan to use your keyboard and what kind of response you enjoy when making your decision between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Koala Tactile

$5.50

$4.21 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more