KTT Phalaenopsis vs. HMX Poro

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference in feel and sound. The KTT Phalaenopsis offers a tactile experience that many typists adore, featuring a light actuation force of just 37g, which minimizes finger fatigue during extensive typing sessions. Its defined tactile bump, with a 50g tactile force, provides satisfying feedback with every keystroke, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. The switch's 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky' characteristics contribute to a rich auditory experience that can enhance the joy of typing. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch caters to users who prefer a smoother, quieter operation. With a meticulously lubricated interior, the Poro ensures effortless keystrokes and a poppy, clacky sound profile, appealing to those who seek a seamless and unobtrusive typing experience. While the Phalaenopsis thrives on tactile feedback, the Poro excels in its fluidity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

HMX Poro Linear

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the HMX Poro, one can immediately note the contrasting choices of top housing: polycarbonate for the Phalaenopsis and nylon for the Poro. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to the Phalaenopsis's propensity for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This unique sound characteristic is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups, as the clear nature of polycarbonate helps to amplify and accentuate the light emitted from beneath. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Poro produces a deeper, fuller sound profile that offers a more subdued auditory experience. The natural acoustic absorption properties of nylon provide a rounder and softer typing sound, catering to users looking for a more muffled and plush key press.

Moving to the bottom housings, both the KTT Phalaenopsis and the HMX Poro again exhibit diverse characteristics, with polycarbonate featured in the Phalaenopsis and nylon employed in the Poro. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis mirrors its performance in the top housing, reinforcing its sharper sound profile. This consistency in material allows the switch to maintain its clarity throughout, ensuring that each key press is resonant and well-defined. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Poro continues the theme of a deeper and fuller sound, amplifying its inherent qualities with a plush bottom-out feel that further softens the auditory experience. This dichotomy highlights how the choice of materials influences not only sound but also the tactile feedback of each switch.

Despite these differences, both switch models can lead to unique yet enjoyable outcomes depending on user preference. For users who appreciate more definition and brightness in their keystrokes, the KTT Phalaenopsis offers a crystal clear response that works well in visually dynamic settings. On the other hand, for those who favor a warmer, more muted auditory feedback, the HMX Poro delivers a satisfying depth and richness that is inherently comforting. Ultimately, while their housing materials result in distinct auditory experiences, both switches can achieve satisfying typing results—reflecting the diversity of preferences in the keyboard community.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we see that they both offer a light typing experience, but with notable differences in actuation force. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, whereas the Poro has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams; both have the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches bottom out at the same force, the Phalaenopsis provides an easier press to actuate a keystroke, making it better suited for those who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Poro, with its heavier actuation force, may appeal to users seeking a more robust tactile feel. Overall, if a lighter typing experience is your goal, the Phalaenopsis is the clear choice, while the Poro caters to those who enjoy a firmer push.

Travel distance

The KTT Phalaenopsis 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 means that the Phalaenopsis offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, potentially appealing to users who prefer a fuller tactile response. On the other hand, the Poro's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers and individuals looking for quicker actuation and faster response times, which can enhance efficiency during gameplay. Consequently, for those who enjoy a more substantial feeling with each keystroke, the Phalaenopsis would be the preferable choice; however, if rapid response is key, the HMX Poro is the better option. Overall, the KTT Phalaenopsis's travel distance is longer than that of the HMX Poro, which makes it ideal for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch stands out with its deep, rich tones described as "bassy" and "thocky." This type of sound profile enhances the keystroke experience, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that resembles a soft "thud" or a muted "knock"—characteristics that many typists and gamers find appealing. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, but it is noted for its "poppy and clacky" sound. While the Phalaenopsis offers a depth that is more prominent and resonant due to its tactile nature, the Poro's characteristics may lean towards something more high-pitched and lighter, depending on the context of the build and keycap choices. This means that while the Poro switch may not provide the same depth as the Phalaenopsis, it could create a lively typing atmosphere that some users might prefer.

In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis provides a notable tactile feedback with its stepped tactile feel. This design features a discernible bump that makes each keystroke a moment of satisfaction, allowing typists to feel the actuation point in a way that enhances precision and comfort. Conversely, the HMX Poro linear switch is known for its silky smooth keystrokes, indicating a lack of tactile feedback, which lends itself to a more fluid and uninterrupted typing experience. Whereas the Phalaenopsis might suit individuals who enjoy a tactile response to their typing, the Poro might attract those who prefer keystrokes that glide seamlessly, making both switches appealing for different preferences.

Overall, choosing between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis offers a rich auditory experience and tactile feedback that many find rewarding, while the Poro provides a smooth, potentially higher-pitched sound coupled with effortless key presses. If you seek a more tactile and auditory typing experience, the Phalaenopsis is the way to go. However, if you prioritize smoothness and ease of actuation, then the Poro is likely to suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but the experience they offer is distinct enough to cater to different typing styles and preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard. If you often find yourself typing for extended periods and prioritize comfort, the Phalaenopsis is an excellent choice due to its light actuation force of 37 grams and the satisfying tactile bump at 50 grams. The deeper, thocky sound and stepped feel of the switches provide a distinctive audio and tactile feedback that can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, more fluid typing experience, particularly for gaming or rapid typing, the HMX Poro linear switch would be ideal. Its ultra-light actuation and meticulously lubricated design ensure effortless keystrokes with a delightful poppy sound profile, letting you glide through your tasks with ease. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how much you value tactile feedback versus smoothness in your typing experience, as both switches offer a compelling blend of performance and satisfaction.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more