HMX Lotus vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Lotus and HMX Poro both offer their unique takes on linear switching. The Lotus, with its medium force of 50g at bottom out, is celebrated for its bright, resonant sound that provides a delightfully bouncy feel with every keystroke. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Poro is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. Its ultra-light actuation force paired with a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile appeals to users who prefer a less physically demanding typing experience without sacrificing auditory enjoyment. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they differ significantly in feel and sound, offering distinct advantages depending on personal preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POM
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 single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lotus and HMX Poro are both equipped with nylon housings for their top and bottom, resulting in significant similarities in their performance characteristics. Both switches leverage the properties of nylon, a material known for its softer texture, which effectively absorbs sound during typing. As a result, users of these switches can expect a rich and resonant sound profile. The use of nylon contributes to a deeper, fuller auditory experience, as it dampens the noise generated during key presses and releases, producing a rounder sound compared to harder plastic alternatives. This endows both switches with a uniquely muted typographic presence that many users find appealing.
While both the Lotus and Poro utilize identical nylon materials for their housings, the impact of these materials can vary depending on how the switches are configured. In the case of both switches, with identical top and bottom housings, the overall sound profile remains highly consistent. However, if a hypothetical switch were to incorporate different materials for the top and bottom housings, the characteristics each material contributes would be differentiated. The bottom housing tends to shape the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing influences the sound during the release of a key. Thus, despite the similarity in construction with both the Lotus and Poro, it is the consistent use of nylon that delivers similar results in terms of tactile feedback and sound quality.
Ultimately, the comparison of housing materials between the HMX Lotus and the HMX Poro underscores the strength of nylon as a versatile and effective material in mechanical switch design. Both switches are likely to produce similar performance outcomes due to their shared manufacturing components. Users can expect a consistent typing experience characterized by a distinctive acoustic profile that aligns with their preference for softer tactile feedback. The uniformity in housing materials suggests that either switch would provide an enjoyable and satisfying experience, making the choice between them largely a matter of personal preference rather than a significant difference in functionality.
Weight
The HMX Lotus and HMX Poro linear switches exhibit identical specifications, with both featuring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This alignment in their forces means that users can expect similar tactile experiences when typing or gaming with either switch. Both switches are classified as light, making them advantageous for extended typing sessions and long gaming marathons, as the lighter actuation force reduces finger fatigue. Since both switches have the same attributes, individuals looking for a smoother, less strenuous typing experience will find either option suitable, with no distinction in weight or force preference between the two.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Lotus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Poro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Lotus is the shorter option, making it potentially preferable for users looking for quicker response times often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Poro, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial key press, offering a more traditional feel. Thus, if you're seeking responsiveness, the Lotus would be the better choice, while the Poro may cater to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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 Lotus linear switch is characterized by a bright, resonant tone that gives a lively auditory response with every keystroke. This can create a more engaging typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy an audio feedback that complements their tactile interactions. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which also emphasizes the enjoyable auditory aspects of typing but in a slightly different manner. Both these sound signatures bring their own charm, although the Lotus's brightness may appeal more to those who prefer a prominent sound, while the Poro may attract those who enjoy a softer clack.
When considering feel, the Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom-out force combined with a super bouncy sensation that makes keystrokes enjoyable and responsive. This can be particularly appealing for users who appreciate a switch that feels buoyant and engaging with each press. Conversely, the Poro switch is meticulously lubricated, resulting in extremely silky smooth keystrokes that glide effortlessly. This emphasis on smoothness creates a distinctly different tactile experience compared to the bounciness of the Lotus, likely favoring those who prefer a more refined and seamless touch when typing.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus and Poro linear switches present unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lotus switch shines with its bright sound and bouncy feel, offering a dynamic typing experience, while the Poro switch provides a smooth glide accompanied by a poppy sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you lean towards a more energetic feel or a refined, silky touch. If you're drawn to auditory feedback or smoothness, you can expect each switch to deliver satisfying results, though the experience will vary based on the distinct characteristics of each.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lotus and HMX Poro linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a switch that offers a super bouncy feeling, along with a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus might be the perfect fit for you. Its 50g bottom-out force is light enough to facilitate rapid typing while providing a unique tactile experience that can make each keystroke feel lively. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and effortless feel, the Poro is an excellent choice, with its meticulously lubricated design that allows for silky keystrokes. While it also has a 50g bottom-out force, the Poro stands out with its satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, adding a delightful auditory dimension to your typing. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more dynamic and bright experience, go for the Lotus; however, if you prefer something buttery smooth with a more pronounced sound, the Poro is the way to go.
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