HMX Perky vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and HMX Poro each present unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Perky, with its softer, glittery nylon housing, offers a neutral and satisfying typing experience, complete with a shorter travel distance that enhances the overall speed and responsiveness. Its clacky, polished, and silky nature makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more condensed and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Poro stands out with its ultra-light actuation force and meticulously lubricated design, providing a silky smooth keystroke that feels almost effortless. Its bouncy, creamy, and feathery attributes, combined with a satisfyingly poppy sound profile, create an enjoyable experience for users who prefer a more playful and dynamic interaction with their keyboard. While each switch offers compelling features for distinct preferences, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and HMX Poro both utilize nylon for their switch housings, which establishes a fundamental similarity in their sound and tactile responses. The nylon material is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. In both models, the choice of nylon as a housing material ensures that users will enjoy a soft and rounded sound profile, thanks to the inherent softer nature of nylon. This characteristic is consistent across both top and bottom housings, facilitating an acoustic experience that is pleasant and less harsh than that provided by harder plastics.
In examining the individual components of the HMX Perky and HMX Poro, it becomes evident that both models employ nylon in both the top and bottom housings. This consistency ensures that each switch delivers a balanced performance, where neither the top nor the bottom housing dominates the overall sound profile. With equal emphasis on the qualities imparted by nylon in both components, typists can expect a harmonious transition of sound and feel regardless of which model they choose. The consistent use of nylon contributes to the expected performance variables, allowing users to anticipate similar typing feedback and acoustic characteristics.
On a broader note, while the housing materials are identical for both the HMX Perky and HMX Poro, any differences in design or construction would be responsible for variations in user experience. However, since both switches share the same nylon material throughout their housings, typists will largely experience comparable results in terms of sound dampening and tactile feedback. Therefore, while individual preferences may lead a user to one model over another, the underlying foundation of nylon guarantees a unified experience when it comes to the unique auditory and tactile pleasures offered by the switches of both models.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it is clear that both options provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended use during work or gaming sessions. The Perky has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Poro's actuation force of 45 grams, though both switches exhibit the same bottom out force. This means that while the Poro requires a marginally stronger push to activate the switch, users of either switch will experience similar bottoming out feelings. Consequently, the Perky is the lighter choice, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch, while the Poro caters to those who enjoy a bit more resistance without compromising the overall lightness of the switches. Thus, despite the minor difference in actuation forces, both switches remain light, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option between the two. In contrast, the Poro features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which offers a slightly deeper feel. This distinction means that users who favor quicker response times—such as gamers—might lean towards the Perky for its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial travel experience may appreciate the Poro's longer 3.7 mm distance, providing a more tactile depth. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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.
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, both the HMX Perky and HMX Poro linear switches exhibit a clacky profile. This sound is characterized by a sharp and snappy quality, resulting in crisp, bright, and percussive acoustic feedback upon actuation. Users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches, though it's worth noting that the overall sound can also be affected by the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Perky switch stands out with its polished and silky texture. These attributes provide a smooth and refined typing experience, marked by reduced friction and effortless key travel, making it deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switch offers a bouncier and creamier tactile sensation, resulting in a lively, spring-like feedback with silky keystrokes. The Poro's feathery lightness enhances comfort during extended use, leading to less finger fatigue. While both switches excel in smoothness, the Perky's polished feel contrasts with the Poro's playful bounce and creamy texture, offering distinct tactile experiences.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky and HMX Poro linear switches share similarities in sound, with both delivering a clacky auditory experience, their tactile sensations differ significantly. The Perky offers a smooth and polished touch, while the Poro introduces a lively and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference; those who seek a refined typing experience may lean towards the Perky, while those who enjoy a more dynamic feel might prefer the Poro.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Perky and HMX Poro linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a compact and neutral typing experience with a polished feel, the Perky switches may be the right choice for you. They offer a shorter travel distance, making them ideal for faster typing and minimizing finger fatigue, while their softer nylon housing provides a satisfying and somewhat refined experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more luxurious typing sensation with a bounce, the Poro switches will likely suit you better. Their meticulously lubricated design delivers a creamy feel that enhances the smoothing of each keystroke, making them perfect for effortless gliding during long typing sessions. Both switches share a clacky sound profile, but the Poro provides that extra springy feedback, adding a playful element to your typing. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style—whether you prioritize a refined, condensed experience with the Perky or a lively, smooth sensation with the Poro.
Mentioned in this article
