HMX Poro vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Poro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) represent distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Poro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its impossibly smooth keystrokes and light actuation force, delivering a satisfyingly clacky sound that many typists and gamers find exhilarating. Its bouncy and creamy feel enhances the typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a touch of auditory feedback without the distraction of a heavily tactile response. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) combines the benefits of a tactile switch with the need for discretion, making it ideal for users in noise-sensitive environments. With its muted sound profile and medium tactile bump, the Silent T1 offers a more understated typing experience while still providing satisfying feedback on each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference—whether one prefers the lively response of a linear switch or the refined subtlety of a tactile switch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches, notable differences emerge particularly at the top housing level. The Poro features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. As a result, users experience a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a duller and rounder acoustic signature. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity and clarity, producing a sharper and more resonant sound. This distinction highlights how the choice of top housing material directly influences the auditory experience of each switch, with nylon favoring warmth and depth while polycarbonate leans toward brightness and crispness.
On the flip side, the bottom housings of both switches employ nylon, providing a cohesive auditory experience when both switches are engaged. As both the Poro and Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they share the characteristic of delivering a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel. The material's absorption capabilities ensure that vibrations are muted, leading to a smoother typing sensation. Hence, while the top housings differ significantly in sonic output due to the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a level of consistency in the lower sound frequencies.
Considering the impact of combined housing materials, it becomes clear that the final sound profile and feel experienced by the user is a blend of both the top and bottom housings' characteristics. For example, while the HMX Poro's nylon top contributes to a rounded sound when keys are released, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s polycarbonate top offers a piercing clarity that enhances the acoustic performance. Coupled with their identical nylon bottom housings, both switches effectively result in a unique typing experience—balancing deep, rich tones with crisp and resonant feedback. Therefore, despite the differences in top housing materials, users can expect to enjoy a satisfying blend of auditory qualities in both switches, underscoring how material choices can complement one another to enhance the overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Poro features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unspecified actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Overall, the Poro is clearly the lighter option, favoring comfort over force, while the Silent T1 leans towards a medium-heavy experience, ideal for users who appreciate a firmer feedback when bottoming out. This contrast highlights the differing user preferences in switch characteristics, where the Poro may be preferable for long-term use, and the Silent T1 caters to those who value a stronger tactile response.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch measures 3.7 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Poro switch offers a shorter keypress, which may be more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1's 4 mm travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Thus, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Poro switch is advantageous for those who favor speed and agility, whereas the Silent T1 suits users who enjoy a more substantial feel with their typing or gaming.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, clear distinctions emerge. The Poro switch offers a lively and clacky auditory experience characterized by sharp and bright tones that make each keystroke sound crisp and percussive. This engaging sound is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the classic mechanical keyboard acoustics. On the other hand, the Silent T1 prioritizes a more subdued experience, featuring muted audio feedback that significantly lessens the noise associated with typists simply trying to get work done or game intensively without disturbing others nearby. The contrast is stark: the Poro creates an invitingly loud atmosphere while the Silent T1 is designed to blend into quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the Poro switch excels with its remarkably bouncy, creamy, and feathery sensations. This switch is engineered for smoothness, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys, which ultimately promotes comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. The light actuation force further contributes to a dynamic typing experience, leaving users with a lively response that feels responsive and springy. Conversely, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) presents a stepped tactile experience, revealing a more controllable bump for those who prefer discernible feedback without the excessive noise. The tactile sensation is more moderate, striking a balance between discernibility and comfort, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a tactile feel but in a quieter package.
In conclusion, both the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Poro is ideal for those who delight in vibrant sound and a bouncy feel, creating a lively environment conducive to an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Silent T1 excels in providing a quiet yet tactile feedback, perfect for situations where noise control is paramount. Choosing between them boils down to whether you prefer an audibly expressive switch or a more discreet tactile experience, each bringing its own strengths to the table.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, your specific needs and preferences should guide your decision. If you prefer a lighter, smoother typing experience with a notable sound profile that feels bouncy and creamy, the HMX Poro switch is an excellent option. Its 50-gram actuation force makes it great for long typing sessions or gaming, where quick key presses are essential without the burden of finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment or simply enjoy a tactile feel without the accompanying sound, the Durock Silent T1 is the way to go. Its medium-heavy 67-gram actuation force and muted feedback provide a satisfying tactile response while minimizing noise, making it suitable for office settings or shared spaces where quiet operation is paramount. Ultimately, the right switch depends on whether you prioritize a lively, responsive feel or a more subdued, tactile experience.
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