HMX Poro vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options to consider are the HMX Poro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, both of which are linear switches but cater to slightly different preferences and user experiences. The HMX Poro is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. Its ultra-light actuation force provides a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, making it a delightful choice for typists and casual users who appreciate tactile feedback without the distraction of excessive noise. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is specifically engineered for gamers, featuring a light actuation force and a shortened travel distance that enhances responsiveness in high-stakes situations. With a bassy sound to accompany each keystroke, these switches provide a robust auditory experience that adds to the overall gaming immersion. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, their targeted designs may lead users to prioritize one over the other based on their specific needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, a notable difference arises in the choice of top housing materials. The Poro features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Conversely, the V3 Silver Pro opts for a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer design contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, particularly beneficial for users looking to maximize the impact of RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances visual effects. As a result, users of the Poro might prefer the softer, muffled audio experience, while those engaging with the V3 Silver Pro could be drawn to its bright and resonant feedback.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which offers a consistent audio experience across both models. Consequently, the nylon bottom housing contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this material, providing a similar auditory element in both switches despite the differing top housings. The effect of the nylon bottom on the switches is significant, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. Therefore, while the top housings create unique sound profiles influenced by their respective materials, the nylon bottom in both the Poro and the V3 Silver Pro ensures that typing retains a consistent, softer quality that enhances the overall experience for users who prefer a muted acoustic feedback.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials create distinctive sound profiles in the Poro and V3 Silver Pro keyboards, but the use of nylon in the bottom housing harmonizes the auditory feedback as users bottom out on the keys. This combination allows for a unique blend of experiences: with the Poro delivering a full and warm sound when typing, and the V3 Silver Pro providing a clear and vibrant audio response, all while maintaining the softer, deeper qualities imparted by the nylon bottom housing. Users are likely to achieve different auditory results depending on their choice, appreciating the interplay of materials that caters to personal preferences in auditory feedback and acoustic experience.
Weight
The HMX Poro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. The Poro switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the V3 Silver Pro is lighter overall with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the V3 Silver Pro is not only easier to actuate but also requires less force to bottom out compared to the Poro. If you're looking for a more substantial typing experience, the Poro switch's slightly heavier forces may appeal to you, while the V3 Silver Pro can offer a lighter touch for those who prioritize ease of use and stamina over a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Poro offers a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Poro the switch with the longer travel distance, providing a more substantial tactile experience that some users may prefer for its depth. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance aligns with the preferences of gamers who favor quicker response times and a more immediate interaction with the keys. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Akko V3 Silver Pro might be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced key press might lean towards the HMX Poro.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 sound profile, likely enhanced by its unique design features. This sound can be engaging for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback from their keystrokes. Conversely, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its bassy sound, which is generally perceived as rich and immersive, making it appealing particularly for gaming environments. While both switches feature distinct sound profiles, they cater to different auditory preferences; the Poro is more on the vibrant and lively side, while the V3 Silver Pro leans toward a deeper, bass-heavy tone. Sound perception will also vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro linear switch is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, providing a gliding experience that feels both refined and pleasurable. With meticulous lubrication, it ensures minimal resistance, enhancing comfort and overall typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are characterized by their easy-to-press mechanism, which offers gentle resistance and a light actuation force for seamless typing. This results in a creamy and feathery feel, making the V3 Silver Pro particularly attractive for extended use, such as gaming or typing. Both switches prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, though the Poro edges toward a more luxurious silky sensation compared to the responsive, quick-activation style of the V3 Silver Pro.
In conclusion, the HMX Poro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch each provide unique auditory and tactile experiences, appealing to different user preferences. The Poro’s clacky sound and silky feel may draw in those who favor a lively typing environment, while the V3 Silver Pro’s bassy sound and responsive actuation might be more suited for gamers seeking swift keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches excel in providing smooth, enjoyable typing experiences, and users can choose based on their sound preferences and the specific feel they desire in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that provides a smooth and luxurious typing experience with silky keystrokes and a pleasing poppy sound profile, the HMX Poro is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for typists who appreciate smooth operation and sound while working or writing. However, if you're a gamer seeking rapid responsiveness with minimal actuation force, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be more beneficial. Its design caters specifically to gaming, featuring a lighter actuation and shorter travel distance, which can dramatically enhance your performance in fast-paced scenarios where timing is crucial. Ultimately, consider what you prioritize in your daily keyboard use—whether it's the refined typing experience of the Poro or the gaming-focused responsiveness of the V3 Silver Pro—to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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