HMX Poro vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing experience. The HMX Poro linear switch is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, benefiting from meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. This switch also delivers a delightfully poppy and clacky sound profile powered by its ultra-light actuation force, making it an ideal pick for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience while typing. Conversely, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offers a contrasting experience characterized by its extremely quiet operation and pillowy feel. This switch provides a muted and subdued sound profile, perfect for environments where noise levels are a concern, yet still maintains a super smooth performance. Both switches cater to different needs: the HMX Poro is perfect for those seeking a lively experience, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is tailored for stealth and tranquility. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The HMX Poro and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches differ significantly in their housing materials, with the Poro utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) employs polycarbonate for both. The nylon of the Poro is lauded for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic contributes to a more muted and rounded auditory experience that many typists appreciate for its warm tone. In contrast, the polycarbonate used in the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is a much stiffer material, which promotes a higher-pitched and crisper sound. As polycarbonate is a transparent material, it also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, creating a visually striking keyboard setup.
While both switches serve the same fundamental purpose, their differing materials produce distinct tactile and auditory experiences. The nylon construction of the Poro absorbs sound, leading to a softer and quieter bottom-out sound when typing. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value a more tranquil typing experience, particularly in shared workspaces. On the other hand, the crisper tones produced by the polycarbonate Silent Frozen (V2) make it preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced audio feedback while typing. When comparing the bottom housings, it becomes clear how these materials influence the overall experience; the Poro’s nylon provides a deeper sound, while the Silent Frozen (V2)’s polycarbonate allows for a brighter and more resonant keypress.
Despite these differences, similar results can be achieved depending on individual preferences and typing style. Users with a penchant for muted sounds may find ways to dampen the crisper profile of the Silent Frozen (V2) with the right modifications, such as applying o-rings or using silicone dampeners. Conversely, those desiring the loud, resonant feedback of the Silent Frozen (V2) can also seek switches that feature hybrid housing modifications. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Poro and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) reflects a preference for either the warm, subdued tones of nylon or the clear, sharp sounds of polycarbonate, demonstrating how housing material impacts sound, feel, and overall typing satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, both options exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, though the Poro is slightly heavier. The HMX Poro features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a lighter feel and may be more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, allowing longer typing sessions with less fatigue. In contrast, the Poro's slightly higher forces cater to individuals seeking a more tactile experience. Ultimately, while both switches deliver similar results in terms of lightness, the choice between them will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, notable differences emerge. The HMX Poro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Poro switch provides a deeper feel, catering to those who prefer a more substantial keypress, ideal for users who enjoy a hearty depth in their typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), with its shorter distance, offers quicker actuation, which can benefit gamers and those who favor a more responsive keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: the Poro is better suited for those seeking depth, while the Silent Frozen (V2) appeals to those prioritizing quick, tactile feedback.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 provides a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, largely due to its ultra-light actuation force, which results in more audible feedback when pressed. This lively character contrasts sharply with the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), which is designed for a quieter experience overall. The Silent Frozen switches are known for their thocky, low-pitched, and muted tones, creating a deep, rich sound that is more muted than traditional mechanical switches. The difference in sound profiles means that those who appreciate auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Poro, while users who prioritize a silent setup will likely find the Frozen V2 more appealing.
In terms of feel, the HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, making typing feel effortless. However, the precise description of its tactile quality is left unspecified. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) boasts a creamy, buttery, and feathery typing experience that allows for easy and comfortable keystrokes. The overall smoothness is enhanced by factory lubrication, promoting a polished feel that reduces friction and facilitates light typing. Additionally, the subtle resistance offered by the Frozen V2 makes it a solid choice for long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue, providing comfort along with the smoothness.
In summary, the HMX Poro and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches cater to different preferences. The Poro switches offer a lively sound profile and a smooth typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a gliding sensation. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) focuses on quiet performance with creamy, buttery keystrokes, optimized for those who want an exceptionally smooth and muted typing experience. Depending on your priorities—whether sound, feel, or a combination of both—both options could provide satisfying results, though they will lead to distinctly different experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Poro linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a lively, tactile experience with satisfying, poppy sound bites, the HMX Poro is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom out force is light enough for effortless typing while providing a smooth glide. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and a little extra excitement in each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter workspace and a more subdued typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) should be your go-to. With its even lighter actuation force of 43 grams, paired with a muted, thocky sound profile, it excels in environments where noise reduction is key, such as shared offices or during late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer smoothness but cater to different needs—choose the Poro for a more engaging experience and the Silent Frozen (V2) for tranquility and subtlety.
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