HMX Poro vs. Durock Sea Glass

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of each option. The HMX Poro linear switch, renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, offers an effortless glide thanks to meticulous lubrication. This switch is celebrated not only for its smooth typing experience but also for its satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile, achieved through an ultra-light actuation force that makes it a joy to use for extended periods. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switch series stands out not only visually with its enchanting pastel colors but also in its typing experience, characterized by a dry, wispiness that is surprisingly smooth despite its notable 62g bottom-out force. The Sea Glass switches provide a unique, hollow sound signature that many users find appealing, alongside their frictionless, mild, and feathery feel. Both switches present compelling choices based on personal preferences—whether you're drawn to the muted elegance of the Poro or the airy aesthetic of the Sea Glass. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

HMX Poro Linear

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Durock Sea Glass switches, it becomes clear that both employ nylon as a foundational component, albeit with distinctive variations in their formulations. The Poro utilizes classic nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which effectively absorbs sound and contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile upon key activation. This characteristic makes the switches particularly appealing for users seeking a muted auditory experience that feels rounded during typing. In contrast, the Sea Glass employs a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housings. While this unique combination retains some benefits of nylon in terms of sound absorption, it leans into a slightly brighter sound profile, delivering a more pleasant, yet distinct auditory feedback that some users may prefer.

The difference in sound profiles between the two switches is driven primarily by their respective housing materials. The HMX Poro's purely nylon construction creates a softer, more subdued acoustic signature which complements a typing experience that many find comforting and approachable. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass, with its polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, offers a brighter sound that maintains some pleasant elements without veering toward harshness. As a result, while the Poro provides a sound that is bass-heavy and resonant, the Sea Glass aims for a balance of brightness and warmth. These fundamental qualities dictate how each switch feels and sounds during use, making them appealing to different types of users based on their typing preferences.

Despite these differences, both switches can achieve similar desirable outcomes through their carefully engineered designs. Users will experience the nuanced qualities of each housing material; for instance, the bottom housing in each switch will significantly influence the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing impacts the sound upon release. Hence, while the Nylon in the Poro excels in a deep, rounded profile, the Sea Glass’s nylon and UHMWPE blend captures a brighter nuance. Ultimately, those seeking a fuller sound may lean toward the Poro, whereas individuals who prefer a clearer, bright tone might gravitate toward the Sea Glass. The choice largely comes down to personal preference, with both options providing users with distinct auditory experiences derived from their unique housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting that users will experience a similar effort required to trigger a keystroke with both switches. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly, with the Poro switch at 50 grams and the Sea Glass switch at 62 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light actuation experience, the Poro switch is the lighter option overall, providing a gentler typing experience, which may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial feel, which could appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push-back during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and comfort.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the Poro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sea Glass measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Poro offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Sea Glass, making it potentially more responsive for users who prefer a fast keypress, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Sea Glass, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a deeper keypress sensation. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus keypress depth, with the Poro favoring quicker response times and the Sea Glass offering a more traditional feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Poro linear switch delivers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky profile, which adds a lively character to your typing experience. This can be particularly enjoyable for users who appreciate auditory feedback during use. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches offer a uniquely hollow sound signature, providing a distinctively airy and dry tone. While both switches prioritize smooth operation, the tonal qualities of each reflect their design ethos, with the Poro exuding a more pronounced auditory presence versus the subtlety of the Sea Glass, although external factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material can significantly influence the final sound experience.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro switch stands out for its silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that creates an effortless glide as you type. This smoothness is complemented by an ultra-light actuation force, making key presses feel particularly light and responsive. Conversely, the Sea Glass switches are characterized by their frictionless action, which allows for a fluid typing experience. Their design balances a mild, featherweight touch, making them exceptionally easy to press while minimizing resistance. This combination is ideal for prolonged usage, as it reduces finger fatigue without sacrificing smoothness, making both switches comfortable yet unique in their tactile sensations.

In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Poro's lively sound and silky smoothness will appeal to those who enjoy some auditory feedback, while the Sea Glass captivates with its airy tone and frictionless touch, promising a lightweight feel. Despite their differences, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both, as they embody high precision and intentionality in their design. Whether you gravitate towards the Poro's engaging sound or the Sea Glass's understated elegance, both options are equipped to provide a delightful keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, the HMX Poro is an excellent choice. Its 50g bottom-out force, silky smooth keystrokes, and satisfying poppy sound profile make it particularly appealing for prolonged typing sessions or for users who enjoy a delicate touch in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust feel with a medium bottom-out force of 62g, the Durock Sea Glass offers a unique experience characterized by its frictionless nature and mild, feathery quality. Its distinct sound and airy typing experience can provide a delightful contrast to those who appreciate a slightly more textured interaction with their keyboard. In summary, choose the Poro for lightweight and smooth performance, while the Sea Glass is ideal if you want a touch of firmness with an ethereal feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

Learn more