Outemu Milk Blue vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and HMX Poro present two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is designed for those who enjoy auditory feedback and tactile response, offering a pronounced click with each keystroke that enhances the typing experience, making it an excellent choice for typists who thrive on a rhythmically engaging sound. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch excels in delivering silky smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated for a seamless glide, perfect for gamers or those who favor quiet, uninterrupted motion without the distraction of clicks. Both switches have their unique appeals—whether you prefer the satisfying auditory feedback of the Milk Blue or the fluidity of the Poro. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Milk Blue and the HMX Poro switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Milk Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clarity. This material is optimal for RGB lighting setups, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal of illuminated keyboards. Conversely, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. The contrasting characteristics of these top housing materials mean that users will experience different sound profiles when typing, with the Milk Blue offering a bright resonance, while the Poro tends to deliver a warmer tone.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both the Milk Blue and the Poro share the same nylon material composition for their bottom housings. This shared characteristic means that the bottom-out sound and feel are consistent across both switches. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material that excels in providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, both switches will ensure a rich experience during key presses. The bottom housing's influence on typing dynamics remains significant, resulting in a pronounced fullness and depth regardless of the differing top materials. This similarity in bottom housing effectively balances out the disparities found in the top housings.
In terms of performance, both switches leverage their unique materials to create distinct experiences for users. The Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing excels in clarity and bright sound, making it suitable for those who enjoy a pronounced and sharp auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro’s nylon top housing delivers a more subdued and balanced sound, appealing to users who prefer a warmer typing experience. However, the shared nylon bottom housing means that both switches ultimately produce a rich and resonant sound upon bottoming out, allowing users to appreciate aspects of both designs. Ultimately, while the Milk Blue and Poro switches exhibit contrasting characteristics in sound and feel due to their differing top housings, their nylon bottom housings create a common ground that enriches the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch differ in their actuation forces and the availability of their bottom out forces. The Milk Blue necessitates a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, in comparison to the HMX Poro's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This subtle difference could impact one’s typing experience; the Milk Blue offers a more substantial push feel, suitable for users who prefer a firmer feedback, while the Poro may be better for those looking for less resistance during extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is not specified, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in that regard. The Poro, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also relatively light. In summary, while the Milk Blue offers a heavier actuation force, the Poro is lighter overall and may provide a more comfortable experience for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Milk Blue features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Poro measures 3.7 mm. This means that the Milk Blue offers a more traditional and deeper press, which many users appreciate for its satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Poro, with its shorter 3.7 mm travel, may provide a quicker response time, appealing particularly to gamers who prioritize speed in their keystrokes. Therefore, those who favor a more pronounced depth when typing or gaming might prefer the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue, whereas those who seek swift action may lean towards the Poro. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Poro is the better choice, while the Milk Blue caters to those who enjoy a more substantial key press.
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 Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is renowned for its distinct clicking sound, which many typists and gamers appreciate for its tactile feedback and the auditory confirmation it provides with each keystroke. The sharp, pronounced click not only adds a satisfying auditory element to typing but also enhances the overall experience by reinforcing the action of pressing a key. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a much quieter experience, focusing on a smooth and seamless keystroke. This switch is designed for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile; in fact, its ultra-light actuation force contributes to a soft sound without the pronounced clicking, placing emphasis on the flowing nature of typing rather than an audible feedback loop.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Milk Blue delivers a tactile response that is both engaging and assertive, ideal for users who thrive on the physical sensation of feedback beneath their fingertips. The click mechanism ensures that each press feels deliberate, making it suitable for tasks that benefit from precision. Conversely, the HMX Poro linear switch emphasizes a silky-smooth keystroke, with meticulous lubrication enhancing the experience of gliding across the keys. The absence of tactile bumps and clicks means that users can enjoy an uninterrupted flow, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity over tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue and HMX Poro switches offer distinctly different experiences tailored to individual preferences. The Milk Blue excels in providing a tactile and auditory experience that many typists enjoy, while the Poro focuses on a smooth and quiet keystroke, designed for seamless typing. Depending on your needs—whether you're after the sharp feedback of a clicky switch or the effortless gliding of a linear option—both switches can cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or smoothness and quietness in your keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you are drawn to a tactile and auditory feedback while typing, the Milk Blue, with its clicky nature, can provide a satisfying experience as you engage in typing or gaming. You'll likely appreciate the distinct sound and feel that accompany each keystroke, making it a great option for those who enjoy the rhythm of clicky switches. However, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience, especially during extended typing sessions or gaming, the HMX Poro linear switch is an excellent choice. The Poro’s silky smooth keystrokes and lightweight actuation provide an effortless glide that minimizes finger fatigue, ideal for rapid typing or gaming without the distraction of audible clicks. Ultimately, consider your individual preferences for sound, feel, and application; this will guide you to the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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