Haimu Orange Sea vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Poro offer two distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth typing feel coupled with a neutral sound signature, making them ideal for users seeking a serene and focused environment. Described as 'Accented' and 'Invigorating', these switches provide a balanced response without any unnecessary distractions. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches stand out for their silky smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated for effortless gliding, complemented by a poppy and clacky sound profile that adds a lively character to every keystroke. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Creamy', 'Clacky', and 'Feathery', the Poro switches may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to different user 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and HMX Poro switches exhibit a notable contrast in their top housing materials, with the Orange Sea utilizing polycarbonate and the Poro employing nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is characterized by clarity and resonance. This distinct sound profile is further amplified when the housing is transparent, making it a favored choice for setups that feature RGB lighting. In contrast, the Poro's nylon top housing produces a deep and fuller sound due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more vibrations and results in a more subdued audio output. This fundamental difference in sound characteristics suggests that while both switches can provide satisfying auditory experiences, their tonal profiles will greatly diverge based on the top housing material utilized.
On the other hand, both the Orange Sea and Poro switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, as both utilize nylon. This similarity lends each switch a deeper and rounder auditory experience, which enhances the overall typing feel and sound when a key is activated. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound more effectively due to its soft composition, leading to a more muted bottom-out sound that can still offer a robust tactile feedback. Regardless of the differences present in the top housing, the consistent use of nylon for the bottom means that users of both switches will likely experience a satisfying fullness in the overall sound profile when bottoming out keys.
In essence, the juxtaposition of polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing of the Orange Sea versus the Poro demonstrates the varied acoustic profiles that housing materials can impart on keyboard switches. While the Orange Sea offers a brighter, more resonant experience that can be visually accentuated with RGB lighting, the Poro's nylon top provides a soft, warm audio signature that caters to those who prefer a more rounded tonal quality. However, both switches' similarity in bottom housing means that, despite these differences at the top, they share a substantial grounding in sound, ultimately leading to an engaging typing experience that is cohesive from bottom to top.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Orange Sea has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option of the two. In contrast, the Poro requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This variance means that users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions might lean towards the Orange Sea, while those who appreciate a more substantial push feel might find the Poro more appealing. While both switches are categorized as light, the Poro is ultimately the heavier of the two, which can influence the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Orange Sea features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Poro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Orange Sea offers a marginally shorter travel distance, which could be beneficial for users who prioritize swift response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Poro's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial tactile experience, appealing to users who prefer a deeper feel when pressing keys. Overall, while both options are relatively close in distance, the Orange Sea will deliver a quicker actuation, whereas the Poro may cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature, making it unobtrusive and pleasant for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. This subtlety allows for a more focused work environment, particularly beneficial in shared spaces. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is noted for its poppy and clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy sound that adds a lively auditory feedback to each keystroke. This sound can be described as crisp and bright, which some typists may find invigorating, though it's worth mentioning that the sound experience may vary based on the keyboard construction and keycap materials used with each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Haimu Orange Sea provides an impeccably smooth typing experience with an invigorating feedback that is both snappy and reactive. The accentuated tactile sensation ensures a satisfied typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a certain level of feedback without it becoming overwhelming. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch offers a distinctly different feel characterized by its bounciness, giving a spring-like feedback that feels lively and responsive. Furthermore, the creamy texture of the Poro switch contributes to a silky, effortless glide across the keys, while its feathery lightness helps reduce finger fatigue during extended use. Overall, the Poro switch aims to deliver an effortless typing experience, emphasizing smooth engagement with less resistance.
In conclusion, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch emphasizes a smooth and neutral typing experience paired with subtle auditory feedback, the HMX Poro linear switch stands out with its lively, clacky sound and a more buoyant, creamy feel. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer the understated presence of the Orange Sea or the engaging and expressive character of the Poro. Both switches, despite their differences, can cater to specific preferences for tactile feedback and sound, allowing users to select the switch that best aligns with their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea and the HMX Poro linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth, neutral sound signature with a delightful feel that balances a medium tactile sensation and snappy response, the Orange Sea is your ideal switch. Its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it especially suitable for typists who enjoy prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, offering an invigorating experience. On the other hand, if you crave a more dynamic typing experience with a clacky sound and bouncy feedback, the HMX Poro is likely to be your best pick. With its slightly heavier 50-gram actuation force and meticulously lubricated design, the Poro delivers silky smooth keystrokes and a satisfying pop that is enjoyable for both gaming and general use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value a crisp, playful auditory experience or a completely smooth, subdued sensation under your fingers.
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