HMX Poro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Poro linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX Poro is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, a direct result of meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide with an ultra-light actuation force. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate quick, smooth key presses and a satisfying poppy sound profile that punctuates each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more tactile feel with its medium-high level of tactility, delivering a pronounced feedback with every press. That's accompanied by deep, resonating thocks that give each typing session a distinctive auditory character. While the Poro excels in smoothness and speed, the Shadow offers a rich, tactile experience that many users find satisfying. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Poro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly influences the sound profile produced during typing. The Poro features a nylon top housing that is characterized by its softer texture, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively. This quality results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is synonymous with a classic switch experience, making it ideal for users who favor a muted auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer composition and transparent nature. The result is a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it a suitable choice for users who enjoy a more resonant auditory response.
When looking at the bottom housing materials, the two switches again diverge in their offerings. Much like the top housing, the Poro is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the same deeper and rounder sound profile perceived during typing. Meanwhile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, reinforcing its sharp and clear auditory characteristics. This difference means that while both switches have distinct sound profiles, removing the switch from its overall context, they would not produce identical auditory experiences. The softer nylon in the Poro absorbs sound, impacting the typing experience differently from the crisper polycarbonate found in the Shadow (Ink).
The interaction between the bottom and top housings in each switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, regardless of the differences in materials used. Specifically, the Poro’s combination of nylon for both housings means that the added softness directly influences the sound and feel when pressing down and releasing the key. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) employs polycarbonate on both the top and bottom housings, allowing for a coherence in its sharper sound profile. Thus, while the HMX Poro provides a fuller sound cushioned by nylon absorption, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a clear and elevated auditory experience characterized by the resonance of polycarbonate. In both instances, understanding how each material interacts can lead users to achieve specific auditory and tactile experiences, tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The HMX Poro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch present a clear differentiation in their actuation and bottom out forces, which influences user experience significantly. The Poro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) requires a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. As a result, individuals looking for a lighter touch will find the Poro more appealing, while those who appreciate the feedback from a heavier switch may gravitate towards the Shadow. Overall, the HMX Poro is the lighter option, while the Aflion Shadow is heavier, and the different forces will cater to varying preferences depending on typing style and comfort needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we see a notable difference. The Poro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it the shorter of the two, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring measures at 4.0 mm, which is the longer option. This means that for users seeking quicker response times, the Poro may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial key press, the Shadow (Ink) might be preferable with its deeper travel. This distinction highlights how personal preferences can play a significant role in switch selection, based on the desired feedback and responsiveness that each switch offers.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Poro linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky tonal quality, offering a bright and percussive note during typing. This results from its ultra-light actuation force, which not only enhances the ease of keystrokes but also contributes to the overall acoustic experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces deep, resonating thocks, which create a more bass-heavy auditory experience with a pronounced presence. While both switches deliver distinct auditory characteristics, the Poro leans towards a higher-pitched and crisper sound, whereas the Shadow offers a richer, more resonant tone, thus catering to different auditory preferences.
When it comes to tactile feel, the HMX Poro linear switch provides a silky smooth experience due to its meticulously lubricated design, ensuring an effortless glide without any interruption. This is ideal for those who prefer a seamless keystroke without the bump common in tactile switches. However, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring introduces a more complex tactile sensation with its medium-high level of tactility, emphasizing sharp feedback and a clear tactile bump with each keypress. It features a bouncy, responsive feedback, largely due to its two-staged spring mechanism, which adds a lively bounce, making it feel more engaging during typing. As a result, those seeking visceral feedback will find the Shadow rich in tactile nuances, while the Poro offers a smoother ride that appeals to minimalistic typists.
In conclusion, both the HMX Poro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch possess unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Poro excites with its crisp, clacky sound and smooth keypress, perfect for users who enjoy a more fluid typing experience. Alternatively, the Shadow provides a deeply resonant auditory experience paired with a tactile sensation that many find gratifying, making it ideal for those who appreciate strong feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a seamless feel or an engaging tactile experience with pronounced auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you're after a smooth, rapid keystroke and prefer a lighter feel, the Poro is your ideal choice, especially if you're engaged in fast-paced gaming or typing where a silky-smooth glide can enhance your efficiency. The satisfying poppy sound it produces adds a playful auditory element that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you value tactile feedback and enjoy a more pronounced response while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the way to go. Its medium-high tactility combined with the deep thocks provides an engaging experience for those who relish the mechanical feel of their switches. The sharper feedback will aid in tactile identification, making it suitable for tactile gaming or long writing sessions where you need clear confirmation of key presses. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and speed or tactile feedback and audible satisfaction in your typing journey.
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