KTT Orange vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and HMX Poro linear switches each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Orange is celebrated for its bouncy feel and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its 22mm long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, and a precision-engineered POM stem. This switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for users who appreciate a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro switches shine with their ultra-light actuation force, producing a silkier and effortless keystroke. These meticulously lubricated switches also offer a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Orange Linear

HMX Poro Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Orange and HMX Poro switches showcase distinct differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence the sound profiles produced during typing. The KTT Orange features polycarbonate in both its top and bottom housings. This choice results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, as polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, allows for clearer resonance. The translucence of the material also complements RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer nature absorbs more sound, giving the switches a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, these material choices directly affect user experience, catering to different preferences in sound perception.

When considering the interaction of the two housing types, each design results in a unique tactile and auditory feedback. For the KTT Orange, the polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a precise and lively sound when keys are released, making the typing experience sharper and more responsive. This high-pitched clarity is paired with a similarly crisp bottom-out sound due to the consistency of the polycarbonate across both housings. On the other hand, the HMX Poro's nylon materials create a more subdued effect where both the bottom-out and key-release sounds are rounded and softer, appealing to those who prefer a more muted typing experience. The differences in sound profile make it clear that nylon and polycarbonate exhibit contrasting effects, leading to fundamentally different experiences.

Despite these differences in materials, both the KTT Orange and HMX Poro switches can evoke strong preferences based on sound and typing feel. Enthusiasts may favor the KTT Orange for its lively sound ideal for both gaming and typing, while others might gravitate towards the HMX Poro for its more tranquil and subdued auditory experience. If experimenting with different configurations, one could mix and match components, such as pairing a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom, to achieve a hybrid sound profile. The influence of the top and bottom housings would effectively blend distinct sound characteristics, resulting in a versatile switch that caters to individual preferences while still capitalizing on the unique qualities of both materials.

Weight

The KTT Orange linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact the typing experience. The KTT Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of overall feel. In contrast, the HMX Poro is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. While both switches allow for quick and responsive typing, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Orange may appeal to users seeking a more substantial push feel, making it better suited for extended typing sessions where tactile feedback is desired. Conversely, the HMX Poro, being the lighter option, may attract those who prefer a softer touch to reduce finger fatigue during prolonged use. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on user preference for weight and feedback during typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Orange linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the KTT Orange features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Poro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference indicates that the KTT Orange is the shorter of the two, offering a more responsive feel that many gamers prefer for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Poro, with its 3.7 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, providing a less abrupt tactile experience. Therefore, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus a more traditional keystroke feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the KTT Orange switch is characterized as low-pitched, which lends it a bass-heavy and mellow tone that creates a soft auditory experience when typing. This quality makes it suitable for environments where a quieter typing experience is appreciated, as it avoids higher-pitched, potentially jarring sounds. In contrast, while the sound profile of the HMX Poro switch is not explicitly described, it is noted to have a "poppy and clacky" character. This suggests a livelier and more pronounced auditory feedback that can provide a satisfying and engaging typing experience, though it might be perceived as louder than that of the Orange switch.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange switch excels with its bouncy nature, creating a spring-like sensation that offers an engaging rebound upon actuation. This bounce, coupled with a frictionless typing experience, ensures a smooth travel that minimizes any resistance, enhancing the overall fluidity of keystrokes. While the feel of the HMX Poro switch isn’t explicitly detailed, it is noted to provide silky smooth keystrokes, suggesting a similarly refined experience. This silky touch could imply a strong alignment with the frictionless characteristics of the Orange, though the ultimate tactile feedback remains unspecified.

In conclusion, both the KTT Orange and HMX Poro linear switches cater to enthusiasts seeking a smooth typing experience, albeit with distinct sound profiles. The Orange offers a low-pitched sound that creates a subdued atmosphere, whereas the Poro promises a more vibrant auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the bouncy and frictionless nature of the Orange contrasts with the silky smoothness of the Poro, suggesting that while they may provide similar smooth keystrokes, their tactile feedback could cater to different preferences. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you prioritize sound ambiance or specific tactile characteristics.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Orange and HMX Poro linear switches, it ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light typing experience coupled with a bouncy feel and a rich, low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange would be the better choice for you. This switch excels in providing a refined and frictionless key travel, supported by its thoughtfully designed components, making it ideal for those who appreciate a blend of responsiveness and smoothness in every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a silky-smooth typing experience characterized by a poppy sound profile, the HMX Poro switches will likely be more appealing. Their ultra-light touch and meticulously lubricated design cater to users who enjoy a seamless glide with each key press. Therefore, consider your typing habits—whether you prioritize a bouncy, tactile click or an effortless glide—to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more