HMX Poro vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Poro and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stand out as two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences. The HMX Poro switch offers a silky smooth keystroke experience, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide with a wonderfully poppy and clacky sound profile—ideal for those who enjoy an audible feedback while typing. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for a more subdued experience, providing a whisper-quiet typing atmosphere that evokes the gentle sound of raindrops, making it perfect for users who seek a tranquil environment or work in shared spaces. While both switches feature ultra-light actuation forces, they serve distinct purposes depending on the user's needs and settings. 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
37g
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
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Poro and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches have distinct differences in their lower housing materials, which leads to varied auditory experiences, while their top housings share similarities. Both switches feature a nylon top housing, a material recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon’s inherent properties allow it to absorb sound more effectively because it is a softer plastic compared to harder materials, creating a rounder and more muted auditory experience. Consequently, users of both switches will experience a similar sound quality when key releases occur since the nylon tops promote a consistent acoustic response.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly, affecting the overall sound produced during key presses. The HMX Poro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, reinforcing the rounded sound profile elicited by the nylon material. This consistency yields a harmonious auditory signature throughout the action of the switch. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which generates a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer structure enhances clarity and resonance, contributing to a livelier bottom-out sound compared to the softer nylon. This marked distinction between the bottom housings influences how the switches feel and sound during key presses, leading to unique experiences for the user.
The combined effects of the housing materials highlight how the different components can work together or contrast to shape a keyboard's typing experience. For both the HMX Poro and Silent Sakura - 43g, while the top housing maintains a consistent sound profile across switches, the bottom housing variations introduce notable differences during key actuation. Users who seek a more muted, cohesive sound experience may favor the Poro, whereas those who appreciate a sharper and more distinct auditory feedback may be drawn to the Silent Sakura - 43g. Ultimately, understanding these qualities will guide users to choose the switch that best caters to their typing preferences, knowing the combined interplay of materials plays a crucial role in the overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Poro switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier, while the Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that users of the Silent Sakura switch will require less force to register a keystroke, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Poro switch offers a stronger push feel, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches are classified as light, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
The HMX Poro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance can influence the typing experience significantly. The Poro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize quick response times, offering a more immediate feel with each keystroke. Conversely, the Silent Sakura's longer travel distance provides a deeper, more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more tactile engagement. Therefore, if you're looking for something that feels more responsive, the Poro would be the better choice, while the Silent Sakura is ideal for those who enjoy a longer travel distance with a more pronounced depth.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky profile, making it an enjoyable choice for those who appreciate audible feedback while typing. This sound profile is enhanced by the switch's ultra-light actuation force, contributing to a lively acoustic experience that can make typing feel more engaging. Conversely, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for a significantly quieter experience, characterized by a gentle sound reminiscent of raindrops tapping against a window. This subtle audio makes the Silent Sakura ideal for users who prefer a peaceful typing environment, perfect for shared workspaces or late-night sessions. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the overall sound will still depend on factors like the keyboard build and keycap selection.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro linear switch excels with a silky smooth keystroke, thanks to meticulous lubrication that promotes an effortless glide while typing. This smoothness translates into a pleasant tactile experience, allowing for fluid, unhindered keystrokes that appeal to typists desiring speed and precision. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g maintains the same ultra-light force but does not explicitly mention its smoothness or any additional characteristics. However, it is designed to provide a soft and serene typing experience, indicating that it may also deliver a comparable level of smoothness to the Poro, although this cannot be confirmed without further details.
In summary, the HMX Poro linear switch stands out for its lively sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, making it suitable for a more tactile and engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g focuses on creating a whisper-quiet environment with a light touch that caters to more subdued settings. While both switches share a similar light actuation force, their intended audio and tactile experiences cater to different preferences. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to whether one values audible feedback and a more engaging experience or seeks a tranquil typing atmosphere.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Poro linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, your personal preferences and typing environment should guide your choice. If you appreciate a more tactile feedback in your keystrokes with a poppy and clacky sound that enhances your typing experience, the HMX Poro is likely the right fit for you. Its 50g bottom out force offers a balance between lightness and a satisfying response, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a serene and quiet typing experience—perhaps for late-night work or shared spaces where noise can be disruptive—the HMX Silent Sakura with its 43g bottom out force is an excellent choice. These switches provide a gentle, almost soothing sound profile, simulating the sound of raindrops and making them perfect for light typists who want both ease of use and tranquility. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard.
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