Outemu Purple vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Outemu Purple switch, renowned for its tactile bump, offers a distinct feel that many typists and gamers appreciate, as it provides physical feedback during typing, making it easier to gauge when a key has been actuated. This switch can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more engaged and deliberate keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch stands out for its smooth, linear design, allowing for fluid keystrokes and a poppy, clacky sound profile. This makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize speed and seamless transitions between key presses, particularly in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Choosing between these two types of switches ultimately comes down to whether you value tactile feedback or a slick, uninterrupted typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and HMX Poro switches, we find a stark contrast in their top housing components. The Outemu Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sturdiness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This rigidity enables clearer and more resonant audio qualities, making it particularly favorable for users who seek an energizing typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting enhancements, creating vibrant visual effects that complement the auditory sensations. In contrast, the HMX Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, a material traditionally recognized for its softer properties which absorb sound, leading to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference in materials results in distinct typing experiences, where the Outemu Purple may cater more to those who appreciate clarity and brightness, while the HMX Poro appeals to users seeking a more rounded auditory feedback.
Interestingly, both the Outemu Purple and HMX Poro share the same nylon material in their bottom housings. This commonality means that both switches will deliver a similar typing feel and sound profile at bottom-out, characterized by the typical characteristics of nylon: a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound absorption qualities. Users of either switch will experience this softer bottom housing, which tends to create a duller impact when the key is fully pressed down. Thus, regardless of the differences in their respective top housings, the nylon bottom housing ensures that the foundational typing experience remains constant across both models, resonating with those who appreciate a subdued auditory feedback at the point of key actuation.
In summary, while the Outemu Purple and HMX Poro switches differ significantly in their top housing materials—polycarbonate's crispness versus nylon's warmth—their nylon bottom housings offer a shared characteristic that mitigates these differences. This intersection allows users to enjoy a quality typing experience that balances both sound profiles, as the impact of the bottom housing remains consistent. Consequently, despite the unique auditory flavors brought forth by their top housings, both switches ultimately converge in creating a satisfying typing experience grounded in the familiar characteristics of nylon. Whether one leans toward the clarity of the Outemu Purple or the fullness of the HMX Poro, the complementary nature of their bottom housings guarantees a unified experience at the core of both designs.
Weight
The comparison between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch highlights notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the HMX Poro’s actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Poro’s value is known at 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Purple is unavailable. This means that, while the actuation forces differ, the Outemu Purple’s bottom out characteristics remain uncertain. Consequently, for users who prefer typing for longer periods, the lighter force of the Poro may provide a more comfortable experience, especially during extensive gaming sessions or work duties, while those seeking a heavier feel may lean towards the Outemu Purple. Overall, if a user favors a lighter switch for prolonged use, the HMX Poro would be the more suitable choice.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference in travel distances can affect the typing experience, with the Outemu Purple providing a more substantial feel due to its longer travel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile response. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the HMX Poro may be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate feedback sensation, although some users might find such brevity a bit too abrupt. Therefore, between the two, the Outemu Purple is the switch with the longer travel distance, and the HMX Poro is the shorter option.
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 Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Purple switches are generally noted for their muted, yet satisfying acoustic feedback typical of tactile switches. They provide a subtle tactile bump without being overly loud. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switches are characterized by their poppy and clacky sound profile, which can be attributed to their ultra-light actuation force. This means the Poro switches may offer a more expressive sound experience while typing. However, it's important to remember that the final sound output can greatly vary based on the keyboard's build quality, materials, and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switches offer a tactile experience that allows for noticeable feedback on actuation, making them a good choice for typists who enjoy a defined response with each keystroke. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro linear switches provide a silky smooth keystroke, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that allows for a gliding sensation without any resistance or bump. This creates a completely different typing dynamic, where the focus is placed on a seamless transition between keystrokes rather than tactile feedback.
Overall, both switches cater to different typing preferences: the Outemu Purple excels in providing tactile feedback with a quieter sound, while the HMX Poro offers a smooth, engaging experience with a more pronounced auditory profile. Choosing between them will largely depend on whether you prefer tactile sensations or unbroken linear action during your typing sessions. Each switch will deliver a unique experience, and how they fit into your overall keyboard setup can influence your satisfaction with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when you're deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a tactile response in your key presses that offers feedback without being overly noisy, the Outemu Purple might appeal to you, especially for general use or gaming where you want to feel the actuation point without overwhelming sound. However, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound profile that enhances an effortless glide, the HMX Poro linear switch is likely the better choice. Its softer actuation force and meticulously lubricated mechanism make it ideal for long typing sessions or editing work, where you want to minimize fatigue while enjoying the silky keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether you prefer tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience or a smooth, quiet glide that supports a dynamic workflow.
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