Gateron Melodic vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, particularly between tactile and linear options. The Gateron Melodic switch stands out in the clicky category, offering a well-crafted blend of classic tactile feedback and a satisfying click sound, enhanced by innovations like smooth factory lubrication and dual-railed stems. This switch is perfect for users who relish the unmistakable auditory feedback and tactile sensation during typing. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch provides a completely different experience, delivering silky smooth keystrokes thanks to meticulous lubrication. With its ultra-light actuation force, this linear switch boasts a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing experience without the distraction of a click. Each switch has its unique appeal—whether you crave the nostalgic click of the Melodic or the whisper-like glide of the Poro—however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Melodic Clicky

HMX Poro Linear

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Melodic and HMX Poro switches showcase distinct approaches to housing materials that greatly influence their sound profiles. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which results in a sharper and crisper sound characteristic. This is beneficial for users who prefer a clear and resonant auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, allowing the illumination to shine through, thus creating an aesthetically pleasing effect. In contrast, the Poro employs a nylon top housing, a classic choice that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer material. Nylon absorbs a significant amount of sound, resulting in a mellower auditory experience, which can be appealing for those who favor a more rounded typing feel.

When examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, offering similarities in their acoustic properties. This shared material means that users will experience similar sound characteristics when bottoming out, as the softer nylon helps to dampen sound and create a solid, deep thump upon keystrokes. The uniformity of nylon in the bottom housing across both switches ensures that the overall feel and sound during key presses remain comparable. Hence, while the Melodic's top housing provides a high-pitched sound, the bottom housing mitigates that with a warmer tone, creating a balanced audio experience.

In summary, while the Gateron Melodic and HMX Poro differ significantly in their top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing gives them a common ground. The contrasting top housings mean that each switch will cater to different sound preferences; the Melodic leans towards a bright, vibrant sound profile, enhanced by its compatibility with RGB lighting, while the Poro offers a more subdued acoustic quality. Users looking for a nuanced typing experience can choose based on their preference for sound clarity versus warmth, knowing that the nylon bottom will ensure a satisfying tactile response regardless of their choice.

Weight

The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Melodic features an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force is measured at 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Poro has a defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating it is a lighter option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Poro makes it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. Conversely, the Melodic's heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience while typing. As a result, individuals who value responsiveness in their keyboard will find the Poro more accommodating, while those who enjoy a firmer push may lean towards the Melodic. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing feel and endurance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Gateron Melodic measures at 4 mm, while the HMX Poro is slightly shorter at 3.7 mm. This difference means that the Melodic may offer a more substantial feel when pressed, catering to those who prefer a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Poro's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers or users looking for quicker response times and a more responsive feel. While both switches serve different preferences—one favoring a hearty depth and the other a more rapid actuation—the distinction in their travel distances allows users to choose based on their typing or gaming style. Consequently, if you seek a traditional and robust sensation while typing, the Gateron Melodic might be the better choice; however, if you desire immediate feedback and faster actuation, the HMX Poro would be preferable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is characterized by its resonant and crunchy qualities. Users can expect a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp auditory experience when typing, which offers an immersive and satisfying acoustic feedback. The crunchy nature of the switch resembles the delightful sound of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy the auditory elements of typing. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound profile, but specific descriptors were not provided. This suggests that while the Poro may deliver an enjoyable acoustic experience, it won’t match the distinctive clicky sound that characterizes Melodic switches. Ultimately, the sound experience you receive can be influenced by other factors like your keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic switch shines with its buttery smoothness and invigorating feedback. The buttery quality ensures a seamless and uniform typing sensation, allowing for a fluid typing experience that can enhance productivity and comfort. The invigorating feedback provides pronounced tactile sensations, leading to a snappy and reactive feel that many typists find engaging. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is described as silky smooth, indicating a focus on a very low-friction keystroke experience. While the Melodic offers tactile and pronounced feedback, the linear nature of the Poro suggests it would provide a different sensation altogether, skewing more towards a consistent smoothness rather than tactile engagement.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch have their unique qualities, they cater to different typing experiences. The Melodic emphasizes an audible click and tactile feedback, resulting in an invigorating typing experience that many users cherish. On the other hand, the Poro focuses on smooth operation with a more subdued sound profile, appealing to those who prefer quiet keystrokes. Ultimately, if you're seeking a sharp and resonant auditory experience paired with tactile feedback, the Melodic is your go-to choice. If you favor smooth and effortless keystrokes with a less pronounced sound, the Poro linear switch would be a better fit. Each switch offers a distinct experience, so your choice should reflect your personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing enjoyment.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what kind of feedback you seek from your keyboard. If you appreciate a classic typing experience that combines tactile feedback, an engaging auditory experience, and the satisfaction of a pronounced click, the Melodic is likely your best bet. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams offers a balanced feel that can keep your fingers engaged during long typing sessions, all while delivering a resonant and crunchy sound that many find rewarding. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, almost effortless typing experience, and value a lighter keystroke with an appealing sound profile, the HMX Poro is the way to go. With its 50-gram bottom-out force and meticulously lubricated design, this linear switch ensures smooth keystrokes and a satisfying pop without any clicky distractions. In summary, consider the Melodic for a vibrant, tactile experience, or opt for the Poro if you lean towards a silky smooth and quiet operation—aligning your choice with your personal typing style and environment will lead to more enjoyable interactions with your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Melodic Clicky

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more