Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Poro represent two distinct approaches to typing and gaming experiences. The Outemu Dustproof Purple is a tactile switch, designed to provide users with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, making it easier to identify keystrokes, which can be particularly beneficial for typists who prefer feedback in their input. On the other hand, the HMX Poro is a linear switch celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, featuring a light actuation force that allows for an effortless glide between key presses. The Poro’s ultra-light design contributes to a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile that both gamers and casual typists often find appealing. Choosing between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference: the tactile feedback of the Dustproof Purple or the smooth, uninterrupted motion of the HMX Poro. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

HMX Poro Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Poro differ significantly in their top housing materials, which plays a crucial role in shaping the acoustic experience of each switch. The Dustproof Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, noted for its stiff composition that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This type of plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it well-suited for configurations that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Poro features a nylon top housing, known for its softer nature that leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted acoustic experience. Consequently, while the Dustproof Purple may appeal to users seeking clarity and brightness in their keystrokes, the Poro is more aligned with those who prefer a softer and warmer typing experience.

While the top housings of the two switches differ, they share similarities in their bottom housing materials. Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the HMX Poro utilize nylon for their bottom housings, effectively ensuring that they both produce a deeper, rounder sound profile when bottoming out. The softness of nylon contributes to sound absorption, resulting in a more controlled and cohesive acoustic output. This shared element in both switches means that regardless of the differing top housing materials, users can expect similar characteristics in the feel and sound of the switches when pressed down, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience.

Overall, the key contrast between the Dustproof Purple and the HMX Poro lies in their top housing materials, which influence the sound characteristics significantly during key release. Users may prefer the brighter, more resonant profile of the polycarbonate top in the Dustproof Purple or the warmer, more subdued quality of the nylon top in the Poro. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that both models can produce a compatible sound experience during the actuation phase. Thus, while the switches will yield different auditory experiences on key release, their shared bottom housing allows for a certain level of consistency in the sound produced when bottoming out, allowing users to find value in either choice based on their preferred typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Outemu Dustproof Purple switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This significant difference makes the Poro switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can alleviate fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the heavier Dustproof Purple switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Thus, if users seek a lighter typing experience, they should opt for the HMX Poro switch, while those who favor a firmer push may find the Outemu Dustproof Purple more satisfying.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the HMX Poro linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects varying preferences in key feel and responsiveness; the Dustproof Purple provides a more substantial depth that some users may find satisfying, whereas the Poro's shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, which can benefit gamers seeking fast response times. However, the shorter travel may feel abrupt to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you favor a deeper, more tactile experience or a quicker, more responsive action.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the sound profile plays a significant role in distinguishing the two. The Dustproof Purple's sound characteristics are not elaborated upon, leaving its auditory experience largely unknown. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch is celebrated for its "poppy and clacky" sound profile, which is further accentuated by its ultra-light actuation force. This means that, while the Poro provides a vibrant auditory experience with each keystroke, the Dustproof Purple remains an enigma in this regard, making it difficult to gauge how the two might compare without specific details on its sound output.

In terms of tactile feedback, the Dustproof Purple's feel is not readily described, leaving potential users without any insight into its physical characteristics. On the other hand, the HMX Poro is known for its silky smooth keystrokes, a result of meticulous lubrication that allows for an effortless glide across the switch. Given the lack of information about the Dustproof Purple, it's impossible to ascertain how its tactile experience might measure against the smoothness and comfort offered by the Poro.

In conclusion, while the HMX Poro linear switch shines with its clear auditory persona and exceptional tactile feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple's qualities remain largely undisclosed. Without specific feedback on its sound and feel, it's challenging to draw definitive comparisons. However, should the Dustproof Purple offer a suitable tactile experience and satisfactory sound, users might find shared elements in their typing experiences, albeit with the Poro providing a more distinctly pleasurable performance due to its well-known attributes.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're seeking from your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile feel with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Purple may be your go-to option, especially for activities like typing where you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback on each keystroke. This switch can be particularly advantageous if you find that a stiffer switch helps reduce accidental key presses, which can be beneficial during intense typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter touch, the HMX Poro linear switch—with its effortless 50-gram actuation force and silky smooth keystrokes—might be more your style. This switch is ideal for those who favor a fast-paced typing experience or enjoy gaming where rapid key presses are essential. Plus, the poppy and clacky sound profile of the Poro could elevate your auditory experience, providing a satisfying feedback loop as you type. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the balance you want between tactile feedback and a smooth, responsive keystroke experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more