Outemu Dustproof Red vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard, switch selection plays a vital role in tailoring your typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Red switch, while less known for standout features, offers a solid linear touch that is appealing for those seeking a reliable and smooth performance. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch shines with its meticulously lubricated design, delivering silky smooth keystrokes and an ultra-light actuation force that makes each press feel effortless. The Poro's satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile adds an auditory delight that many typists crave. Both switches cater to the linear switch demographic, bringing unique attributes that can enhance your typing or gaming sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

HMX Poro Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the HMX Poro switches present distinct characteristics, contributing to their overall auditory experience. The Dustproof Red features a top housing made of polycarbonate, which is known for its rigidity and transparency. This material's stiffer structure results in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile when keys are released. On the other hand, the Poro switch utilizes nylon for its top housing, a softer plastic that absorbs sound and produces a deeper, fuller auditory response. Consequently, the Dustproof Red's polycarbonate top allows for better amplification and clarity of high-frequency sounds, perfect for those who prefer a brighter typing experience, while the Poro offers a more subdued and rounded sound profile.

In contrast, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes similarly to a fuller sound experience. Nylon's softer texture dampens resonance, allowing for a more muted bottom-out sound during key presses. This shared material in the bottom housing diminishes tonal differences between the two switches when keys are fully activated. The nylon's inherent sound-absorbing qualities help to create a rounded auditory experience in both switches, which is particularly noted during the actuation phase — a key area where users might feel a stark similarity regardless of the different top materials. Thus, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a comparable dynamic when the keys are bottomed out.

Ultimately, the varied top housing materials in the Outemu Dustproof Red and the HMX Poro switches create distinct sound profiles upon activation and release. The polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Red excels in providing a sharp and crystalline sound upon key releases, contrasting sharply with the nylon top of the Poro, which cultivates a warmer, more muted auditory environment. However, the nylon bottoms of both switches ensure that the fuller sound characteristic is consistently felt during key presses, thereby creating a notable convergence even amid material differences. For users seeking a particular experience, understanding these nuances can help guide their choice between clear, crisp, or deeper, rounder sounds based on personal preference.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, leading to a similar feel when initially pressing the keys. However, they differ significantly in their bottom out forces; the Dustproof Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Poro features a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, the Dustproof Red feels heftier when it comes to bottoming out, making it a better choice for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro, being lighter overall due to its lower bottom out force, may provide a more comfortable option for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less overall force to press the keys all the way down.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the HMX Poro linear switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Poro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience a more pronounced depth and feedback with the Dustproof Red switch, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a fuller typing experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Poro may appeal to gamers and individuals seeking faster response times and a snappier feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference—if you favor a more traditional depth, the Dustproof Red is the way to go, whereas the Poro might be better suited for those who prioritize rapid actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have a specific sound profile noted, which suggests a more neutral auditory response during typing. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch boasts a poppy and clacky sound profile thanks to its ultra-light actuation force, offering a more tactile auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the actual sound produced by either switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, potentially leading to a quieter or more pronounced audible experience.

When considering feel, while the specifics for the Outemu Dustproof Red are not provided, the description implies a typical linear switch experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch is noted for its silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication. This suggests an exceptionally effortless gliding feel that can make long typing sessions more enjoyable. The HMX Poro's feel may provide a plush and satisfying experience compared to other linear switches, depending on the user's personal preference for smoothness and actuation feedback.

Overall, while the Outemu Dustproof Red may offer a more neutral auditory and tactile experience, the HMX Poro linear switch stands out with its lubricated smoothness and distinct sound profile, which can cater to those who appreciate both auditory and tactile sensations in their mechanical keyboards. If you’re looking for an experience characterized by smoothness and an engaging sound, the Poro is a favorable choice, whereas the Dustproof Red might suit those who prefer a more understated approach.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a slightly firmer key press with a bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Dustproof Red may be the better choice for you, especially if you're looking for a balanced performance that can handle both gaming and typing without overly taxing your fingers. This medium resistance could also cater well to those who enjoy a bit of tactile feedback without the abruptness of a clicky switch. On the other hand, if you are after an ultra-smooth experience with minimal effort, the HMX Poro’s lighter 50-gram bottom-out force offers a silky-smooth keystroke that many typists often find delightful. Additionally, the Poro's unique sound profile provides a poppy and clacky auditory feedback, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a little aural engagement while typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a firmer feel for stability or a lighter, smoother touch for speed and fluidity.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more