HMX Poro vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Poro and KTT Rose offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that allows for an effortless glide and an ultra-light actuation force, resulting in a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who prioritize speed and a light touch. On the other hand, the KTT Rose stands out not just for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its innovative use of progressive springs, which deliver a typing experience that feels both substantial and comfortable without being overly heavy. The bassy raindrop sound they produce adds a unique auditory satisfaction to every keystroke. Ultimately, while the Poro focuses on a rapid and streamlined experience, the Rose combines beauty with a balanced typing feel. However, 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the KTT Rose, notable differences emerge in their top housing construction. The Poro features a nylon top that is characterized by its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic properties, which absorb sound effectively, creating a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the KTT Rose sports a polycarbonate top, which delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant and clear sound, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a bright auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches may offer gratifying typing experiences, the tonal qualities and aesthetics significantly contrast due to their distinct top housing materials.
The bottom housings of both the Poro and the Rose, however, share a commonality that aligns their acoustic characteristics. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. This is significant because the bottom housing is critical in determining the feel and sound when the key is bottomed out. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, users of both switches can expect a satisfying, muted auditory response during key presses, thanks to the shared nylon bottom.
Ultimately, the unique combination of housing materials in both the HMX Poro and the KTT Rose leads to a nuanced typing experience. While the Poro’s nylon top enhances its sound absorption for a deeper profile, the Rose’s polycarbonate top provides a higher-pitched clarity. Each switch leverages the nylon bottom to ensure a comparable sound and feel at the bottom-out stage, allowing users to enjoy the qualities of both nylon and polycarbonate in their respective characteristics. The divergence in top materials serves to create distinct auditory experiences, while the shared bottom housing harmonizes their overall performance during typing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Poro has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch lacks a specified actuation force but features a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This heavier force contributes to a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who appreciate a stronger feedback when typing. Overall, the Poro switch is the lighter option, while the Rose switch is the heavier choice, which suggests that users will have distinctly different experiences with each; the Poro offers a more effortless keystroke, while the Rose provides a firmer response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is evident that the Poro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Rose has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm may seem minimal, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. Gamers and users who favor quicker response times might prefer the Poro's shorter travel distance, as it provides a more responsive feel, while others who appreciate a more substantial key press may find the KTT Rose's longer travel distance more satisfying. Thus, those who prioritize speed and a snappier key response will likely gravitate towards the Poro, whereas users desiring a deeper and more deliberate keystroke might opt for the Rose.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 HMX Poro linear switch features a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which can be attributed to its ultra-light actuation force. This gives an energetic auditory feedback that many typists find appealing, especially in a lively typing environment. In contrast, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a more low-pitched and bassy tone that leans towards a mellow sound. The neutral characteristics of the Rose make it less pronounced, providing a versatile tone that is suitable for a variety of settings, whether at home or in the office. While the Poro produces a livelier sound, the Rose’s bassy raindrop effect evokes a subtle, intimate auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a more muted acoustic presence.
In terms of feel, the HMX Poro switch is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated to enhance glide and reduce friction during key travel. This results in a seamless typing experience that typists can enjoy for extended periods without discomfort. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is characterized by its mild and polished feel. The mild nature provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable for users of all skill levels, while the polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined keystroke. Though both switches aim for a smooth typing feel, the Poro emphasizes a lighter touch, whereas the Rose balances a substantial yet gentle progression throughout key presses.
Overall, both the HMX Poro and KTT Rose linear switches bring unique auditory and tactile experiences to the table. The Poro’s more vibrant sound and ultra-smooth keystrokes cater to those who appreciate an energetic typing atmosphere, while the Rose switch appeals to users who prefer a more subtle acoustic profile paired with its gentle, polished keystroke feel. Choosing between them may ultimately come down to personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, but both will perform admirably in creating a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light touch and enjoy an ultra-smooth keystroke that glides effortlessly, the Poro switch—given its 50-gram bottom-out force and impeccable lubrication—would likely be your ideal choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who relish a poppy and clacky sound, making it an excellent option for casual typing, gaming, or when you want to impress with a lively auditory experience. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience and don't mind a bit more resistance with a 63.5-gram bottom-out force, the KTT Rose switch may be better aligned with your needs. Its heavier actuation provides a gratifying tactile feedback, paired with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile that can enhance your typing pleasure, especially in quieter environments. The polished finish and mild characteristics of the Rose switches make them versatile, catering well to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you want to feel during typing sessions, whether seeking a buttery smooth, light sensation with the Poro or a more grounded, textured experience with the Rose.
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