HMX Poro vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Poro and Huano Sakura both stand out as exceptional linear options, each catering to different user preferences. The HMX Poro switches are renowned for their silky smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated for an effortless glide that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. With a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, the Poro's ultra-light actuation force provides an appealing tactile feedback that can energize your typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches excel in offering a feather-light touch, boasting medium acoustics that create a more subdued sound environment—perfect for those who might be typing for extended periods and seeking minimal distraction. While both switches offer benefits that could enhance your typing or gaming experience, they are designed to meet different needs and preferences, making the choice between them uniquely personal. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Poro and the Huano Sakura switches, one of the primary distinctions lies in their top housing materials. The Poro features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a warm typing experience. Nylon, as a softer plastic, naturally absorbs sound waves, leading to a rounder auditory experience that many typists find desirable. In contrast, the Sakura utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing, which boasts enhanced durability and smoother operation due to its low coefficient of friction. While the Poro's nylon promotes sound absorption, the Sakura's POK contributes to a clackier sound, resulting in noticeably different auditory profiles during use. Thus, even though both materials serve their purpose as switch housings, their differing properties create unique tactile and auditory experiences.
The lower housings of both switches present an interesting comparison, as both the Poro and Sakura utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material means that both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, producing that characteristic deeper and fuller sound. Since the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel, users can expect similar auditory responses in this regard from both switches. The commonality of nylon ensures that the warmth and softness of the experience remain consistent across both options, unifying their performance in terms of sound and tactile feedback when the keys are pressed down.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials with a shared bottom housing material illustrates how the HMX Poro and Huano Sakura switches can yield distinctive yet interconnected experiences. While the Poro’s nylon top housing leans towards a sound profile that is subdued and smooth, the Sakura’s POK top embraces a more vibrant and clacky feel. The nylon bottom housing, prevalent in both, ensures that the fundamental auditory characteristics remain similar, allowing typists some level of familiarity irrespective of the switch choice. This interplay between varied top housings and a common bottom housing demonstrates the art of switch design, where material properties are manipulated to customize user experience while retaining certain core behaviors.
Weight
The HMX Poro linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch present a contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Poro requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sakura is lighter with a lower actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, as the reduced resistance can lead to less finger fatigue over time. In contrast, the Poro provides a firmer feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out forces highlight this distinction, with the Sakura also bottoming out at a lighter force than the Poro, reinforcing its lighter overall feel in use. Therefore, if a user is seeking a lighter switch for long durations, the Huano Sakura would be the better choice, whereas those who favor a heavier switch would find the HMX Poro more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the Poro features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Poro the longer option by just 0.1 mm. For gamers who favor faster response times, the Sakura's shorter travel distance may be more appealing, providing a quicker actuation for rapid gameplay. However, some users may prefer the more pronounced depth of the Poro switch, which offers a bit more travel distance for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Thus, the choice between the two will largely depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in typing experience.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Poro linear switch produces a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which makes for an engaging auditory experience during typing or gaming sessions. This sound is further enhanced by its ultra-light actuation force, allowing for quick, responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch features medium acoustics that offer a more subdued sound profile. This makes the Sakura a good option for those who prefer quieter operation, especially during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, while both switches have their unique auditory characters, the Poro tends to have a more pronounced and lively sound compared to the more muted tones of the Sakura.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the HMX Poro is characterized by its silky smooth keystrokes, which are meticulously lubricated to ensure an effortless glide across the entire key travel. This level of smoothness can enhance the overall typing experience, making every keystroke feel fluid and satisfying. In contrast, the Huano Sakura also offers a feather-light touch, making it easy to actuate without much force. However, the Sakura may not provide the same level of smoothness as the Poro, potentially resulting in a slight difference in the tactile experience for users. Both switches cater to light keystrokes but may provide varied sensations throughout their travel.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Poro and Huano Sakura linear switches cater to users seeking a lightweight and smooth typing experience, they present distinct sound profiles and tactile feels. The Poro is best for those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory feedback and an exceptionally smooth keystroke, while the Sakura is suited for individuals who prefer quieter operation and a feather-light touch. Whether you choose the Poro for its engaging sound or the Sakura for its extended typing comfort, both switches promise to deliver satisfying
results aligned with your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a silky smooth keystroke and enjoy a slightly poppy sound with satisfying feedback, then the Poro will likely be your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom out force provides a light typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you seek an ultra-light touch for extended typing sessions, the Sakura switch—with its 45-gram bottom out force—may suit you better. The Sakura offers a balanced sound profile and feel, which can help reduce finger fatigue during long periods of use. Both switches are fine options, but aligning their characteristics with your intended use—whether that be gaming, typing, or casual use—will guide you to the right choice.
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