HMX Poro vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Poro and SP-Star RedBlue both offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Poro, celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, provides an effortless glide thanks to meticulous lubrication, making it an appealing option for gamers and typists who enjoy a low resistance feel. Its ultra-light actuation force results in a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, adding to the overall experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are designed for those who appreciate a medium-light typing experience, delivering a unique low-pitched sound profile that's characterized as thocky and polished. This makes them an excellent choice for creators and enthusiasts who seek a balanced blend of tactile feedback without overwhelming noise levels. Both switches have their merits, depending on your typing style and sound preferences; 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HMX Poro and SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct contrast in their housing materials, which significantly affect their acoustic qualities and overall typing experiences. The Poro utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material recognized for its softer profile that absorbs sound effectively. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed, contributing to a typing experience characterized by a mellow and rounded auditory feel. In contrast, the RedBlue switches employ polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings, which have a naturally stiffer composition. This choice results in a sharper, crisper sound profile that delivers a more resonant and clear acoustic experience, ideal for users seeking an upbeat and lively typing sensation.
Even though the housing materials differ, an interesting aspect is how the top and bottom housings complement each other in shaping sound dynamics during keypresses. The nature of nylon in the Poro’s housings means that when pressed, both the top and bottom work together to dampen sound, yielding an overall muted response. Conversely, the RedBlue's polycarbonate design enhances the clarity and brightness of the sound, making every keystroke feel more pronounced and impactful. Therefore, while users of both switches may seek different auditory and tactile sensations, each material serves its purpose effectively within the context of the switch design.
Moreover, if one were to consider RGB lighting, the use of polycarbonate in the RedBlue's clear housing adds an aesthetic advantage, allowing for light diffusion that accentuates the visual experience. The Poro's nylon, being non-translucent, does not offer this benefit, but the deeper sound profile may attract those who prioritize auditory satisfaction over light effects. Ultimately, whether preferring the richer tones of the HMX Poro or the crispy sounds of the SP-Star RedBlue, users can achieve satisfying results that cater to their individual preferences, albeit through different auditory pathways influenced by the housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Poro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact user experience. The Poro features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, ideal for lengthy typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is heavier than the Poro's 50 grams. This indicates that while the RedBlue may not require more force to activate than the Poro, it does require more force to fully bottom out. Consequently, the Poro is the lighter switch overall, offering a more effortless touch for prolonged use, while the RedBlue provides a slightly heavier feeling, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. If the actuation forces were comparable, users could expect similar performance in terms of keystroke activation, but in this case, the difference in bottom out forces further emphasizes the Poro’s lighter, more user-friendly design.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that the Poro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the RedBlue features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.3 mm may seem minor, but it can significantly impact the overall typing or gaming experience. The Poro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers who prioritize quick response times and faster key presses, whereas the RedBlue might attract those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke for a deeper typing sensation. Ultimately, those looking for a snappier feel may prefer the Poro, while those favoring a more traditional, hearty depth would likely lean toward the RedBlue.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 HMX Poro linear switch offers a unique poppy and clacky sound profile, which enhances the experience of typing with its lively characteristics. This sound signature creates a more engaging auditory experience, perfect for those who enjoy audible feedback during typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is characterized by its relatively low-pitched sound that tends to be mellow and bass-heavy. This creates a deeper, richer audio experience that can feel more soothing, particularly in quieter environments. However, the RedBlue's sound may not possess the same level of excitement as the Poro’s more pronounced sound quality. Therefore, while both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Poro leans toward a more vibrant sound, contrasting with the muted richness of the RedBlue.
Regarding feel, the HMX Poro switch is designed to offer silky smooth keystrokes due to meticulous lubrication, resulting in an effortless glide. This means that typists will experience little friction, making long typing sessions more comfortable. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. Its polished characteristics ensure that the feel remains approachable without being overly pronounced in any aspect. While the Poro excels in creating a smooth and satisfying sensation with enhanced actuation responsiveness, the RedBlue offers a refined experience where users can expect consistent performance without any harsh feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide pleasant tactile experiences, but the Poro's focus is on smoothness, while the RedBlue emphasizes a balanced touch.
In summary, the HMX Poro and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches deliver distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Poro’s poppy and clacky sound paired with its silkiness sets a dynamic tone, perfect for those seeking an engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the RedBlue's low-pitched, smooth auditory output complements its mild and polished feel, creating a more subdued but equally enjoyable experience. Depending on your priorities, whether it’s pronounced feedback or a softer touch, both switches can meet your needs, granting you a satisfying performance in your mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the HMX Poro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, your personal preferences and typing style will play a crucial role in your choice. If you favor a lightweight typing experience that allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, the Poro is an excellent option. Its silky smooth feel paired with a satisfying poppy sound profile makes it particularly enjoyable for typing or gaming. This switch is great for those who appreciate a tactile stimulation while maintaining a low actuation force, making it perfect for extended use without fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly more grounded experience with a medium-light feel, the RedBlue might be the better pick for you. Its low-pitched, thocky sound offers a comforting typing experience that feels balanced and approachable, suitable for both work and casual use. The slightly higher bottom-out force also lends it a more stable feel, which can be especially beneficial during intense gaming sessions or extensive typing tasks. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing habits and sound preferences; both switches have unique attributes that can cater to varying needs and styles.
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