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HMX Poro vs. Everglide Sakura Pink

An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Poro and Everglide Sakura Pink represent two enticing options for typists seeking that perfect balance of performance and comfort. The HMX Poro is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide, paired with a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile that appeals to users who appreciate tactile feedback during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are designed for those who favor a feather-light experience, boasting an incredibly low actuation force of only 35g. These switches are ideal for delicate typists, offering a gliding feel and frictionless operation while producing a playful sound likened to popping bubble wrap. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them appealing for different preferences in typing style and acoustic quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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

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

Stainless steel

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches, we see a distinct contrast between the nylon used in the Poro's housing and the polycarbonate utilized in the Sakura Pink’s design. The Poro's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile, which is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the material to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a muted yet rounded auditory experience during key presses. Conversely, the Sakura Pink’s polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate elevates the clarity and resonance of the key sounds, making it especially appealing for users who prioritize a bright auditory feedback when typing.

Furthermore, the differences in material composition also influence the tactile experience offered by both switches. While the HMX Poro delivers a muted response due to its nylon makeup, ideal for those who prefer auditory discretion in their typing experience, the Everglide Sakura Pink's polycarbonate housing enhances the overall tactile feedback with its more vibrant sound profile. Because the bottom housing of a switch is more decisive in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the Poro emphasizes a tradition of plush key presses, while the Sakura Pink exudes a sharper clarity that may be more desirable for certain enthusiasts seeking precision in their keystrokes.

Though the two switches employ different materials that result in varied acoustics and feels, it's important to note that they can still cater to users with distinct preferences. Those who appreciate the Poro's seamless integration of softer audio elements can still achieve satisfying results from a typing experience with the Sakura Pink by adjusting their typing technique and perhaps even applying external dampening solutions. In environments where sound levels are monitored or aesthetics such as RGB lighting play a critical role, the more translucent quality of the polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink can deliver a visually striking effect, thereby allowing for similar engagement with lighting effects that enthusiasts may seek, despite their differing sound profiles.

Weight

The HMX Poro linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch both feature relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, but there are notable differences between the two. The Poro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sakura Pink is lighter, with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura Pink requires less force to activate and bottom out compared to the Poro, making it the lighter option for users who prefer a softer touch while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Poro’s slightly heavier forces may cater to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel during use. Ultimately, while both switches are light, users looking for the lightest experience should opt for the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Poro switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sakura Pink has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that if you're seeking a quicker response time and prefer a more responsive feel, the HMX Poro would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, if you favor a more substantial key press with a deeper response, the Everglide Sakura Pink is likely to be more appealing, as its longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision rests on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.

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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.

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 considering the sound profile of the HMX Poro linear switch, it is characterized by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky tone that pairs well with its light actuation force. This results in a lively auditory experience as each key press delivers an engaging feedback that's pleasant to the ear. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switches present a more muted sound, often described as a delightful pop, akin to the sound of bubble wrap being popped. This softer auditory feedback provides a quieter typing experience while still maintaining a degree of playfulness, making it suitable for quieter environments.

In terms of feel, the Poro linear switch offers a silky smooth keystroke that is meticulously lubricated for effortless gliding, which contributes to a smooth typing experience. Its overall typing sensation can be enjoyable, particularly for those who prioritize a lightweight and responsive switch. The Sakura Pink switches, however, elevate the typing experience with descriptors like buttery and creamy, effectively highlighting their frictionless operation. They not only provide minimal resistance with their easy-to-press design but also offer a seamless and uniform typing sensation that feels almost like gliding over the keys. This combination ensures that both switches, while differing in auditory feedback, offer smooth and enjoyable typing experiences.

In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and Everglide Sakura Pink linear switches cater to typists seeking smooth and responsive keystrokes but present differences in sound and feel. The Poro’s clacky and poppy sound profile contrasts the more subdued and playful auditory experience of the Sakura Pink. While the Poro ensures a silky glide, the Sakura Pink enhances this sensation with its buttery and creamy descriptors, alongside its exceedingly light actuation force. Ultimately, your choice between them can depend on whether you prioritize an engaging sound experience or a more muted, satisfying touch with a frictionless feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch should ultimately align with your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a slightly higher actuation force and enjoy a more pronounced, satisfying keystroke with a distinctive poppy sound, the HMX Poro may be the ideal selection for you. Its lubricated design ensures a silky smooth typing experience, making it perfect for those who appreciate tactile feedback and want a balance between lightness and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you favor an exceptionally light touch with an effortless glide, the Everglide Sakura Pink should be your go-to. With its feather-light actuation force and creamy, buttery feel, this switch excels for delicate typists or for activities requiring quick, swift key presses. The Sakura Pink's muted sound profile further makes it an excellent choice for quieter environments, allowing for an enjoyable yet unobtrusive typing experience. Ultimately, consider your typing style and setting to choose the switch that fits your needs best.

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