KTT Laurel vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Laurel and the HMX Poro both present excellent options for gamers and typists alike, each with its unique characteristics. The KTT Laurel is a medium-light linear switch, celebrated for its full POM housing and long pole design that offers an ideal balance of responsiveness and comfort. Its subtly low-pitched sound profile and snappy feedback make it an appealing choice for those looking for precision and a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro boasts silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that allows for an effortless glide. Its ultra-light actuation force paired with a poppy and clacky sound profile ensures a lively and engaging interaction with each press. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the choice between their comforting responsiveness and delightful smoothness ultimately depends on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Laurel Linear

HMX Poro Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Laurel and HMX Poro switches each utilize distinct housing materials, which influence their acoustic properties and overall tactile experience. The Laurel features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is known for producing an acoustically pleasing and unique sound profile, characterized by deeper and more muted tones. This is largely due to POM being a rigid plastic, which can contribute to a more pronounced and defined sound while providing a stable tactile feel in use. In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is acclaimed for its softer, more flexible nature, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs more sound compared to the harder POM, resulting in a tonal quality that is duller and rounder, particularly when typing.

When comparing the effects of these materials on the typing experience, both switches aim for a rich sound profile but achieve it through different means. The deeper sound characteristics of the Laurel arise from the inherent properties of POM that facilitate a robust auditory feedback. In contrast, the Poro’s nylon construction allows it to generate a sound that is softer and more rounded, contributing to a different auditory experience when typing. The difference in materials creates distinct characteristics in the bottom-out sound and feel, with the POM housing likely providing a sharper acoustic feedback, while the nylon housing rounds it out, presenting a smoother auditory experience.

Ultimately, while the KTT Laurel and HMX Poro switches rely on different materials, both result in a deeper sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a more contemplative typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings in both designs mean that even though the materials differ, many users may find that both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. The plushness from the nylon in the Poro can mimic some aspects of the POM found in the Laurel, offering an interesting interplay between the two designs. Therefore, regardless of the differing materials, both switches showcase how they can achieve similar auditory results through unique structural qualities, catering to diverse preferences among typists.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both exhibit relatively light forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. The actuation force of the Laurel is 43 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Poro's actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the Poro requires a bit more effort to trigger a keystroke, both switches will bottom out at the same pressure. For users who prefer a lighter feel for extended use, the Laurel may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. However, those who enjoy a slightly firmer push will find the Poro appealing, though the overall typing experience will be similar due to their equal bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it is clear that the Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Poro's longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm highlights the varying preferences users might have based on their typing or gaming style. Those who favor a more responsive feel will likely gravitate towards the KTT Laurel, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation and potentially faster response times. Conversely, users who appreciate a fuller keystroke and a deeper feel may prefer the HMX Poro, as its longer travel distance offers a more traditional and satisfying typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve different user needs, the KTT Laurel is the shorter option, appealing to those who desire quickness, while the HMX Poro is the longer one, catering to those who enjoy more depth in their key presses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Laurel linear switch delivers a subtly low-pitched sound profile that contributes to its overall typing experience. This lower tone is more bass-heavy and mellow, which can create a soothing auditory backdrop, particularly suited for environments where softer sounds are desirable. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which provides a more dynamic auditory feedback during use. While the pop and clack sounds are generally more vibrant, the specific acoustic characteristics can also vary based on the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, which means both switches have their unique sound signatures that appeal to different preferences.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel stands out with its snappy responsiveness, primarily due to its longer pole design and the medium-light actuation force. Users will experience a lively and engaging typing sensation that encourages quick and accurate keystrokes. In contrast, while details about the feel of the HMX Poro are unspecified, the mention of its meticulous lubrication suggests that it may provide a smooth glide. The buttery nature of the Poro could offer a different tactile experience, potentially leaning towards a more effortless and fluid typing motion without the snappiness of the Laurel.

In conclusion, both the KTT Laurel and HMX Poro linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel’s low-pitched, snappy qualities provide a comforting auditory and tactile experience, while the Poro’s poppy sound and presumably smooth keystroke create a distinctly different ambiance. For newcomers to mechanical keyboards, both switches promise compelling experiences but will resonate with different users depending on their specific preferences for sound and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the KTT Laurel and the HMX Poro linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you favor a lightweight switch that offers a snappy response and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Laurel is a fantastic choice. Its combination of a medium-light actuation force and full POM housing provides a comfortable typing experience that remains engaging, making it excellent for both office work and gaming. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that allows for silky smooth keystrokes and a more pronounced, clacky sound, the HMX Poro may be the better fit. With its meticulous lubrication ensuring effortless gliding, the Poro enhances both your typing enjoyment and auditory experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a little more character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a snappy responsiveness paired with a mellow tone or a smooth action with a more vibrant sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more