HMX Poro vs. Dareu Sky POM

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can greatly impact your typing experience, and two intriguing options to consider are the HMX Poro and the Dareu Sky POM, both linear switches that cater to distinct preferences. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, which are meticulously lubricated for an effortless glide, perfectly complemented by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile due to its ultra-light actuation force. This switch falls into the categories of ‘Bouncy,’ ‘Creamy,’ ‘Clacky,’ and ‘Feathery,’ making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback combined with an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its innovative design, being crafted entirely from POM material, which not only ensures exceptional smoothness but also provides a buttery feel with a low-pitched clacky sound that remains accessible at a competitive price point. Categorized as ‘Buttery,’ ‘Low-pitched,’ ‘Creamy,’ and ‘Silky,’ this switch appeals to users seeking a premium quality feel without breaking the bank. While both switches enhance the typing experience in their own ways, choosing between them ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Poro Linear

Dareu Sky POM Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.78

$4.98 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Dareu Sky POM switches, we find that both feature an interesting interplay between nylon and POM (polyoxymethylene) materials. The Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture that absorbs sound waves more effectively. This results in a duller and rounder acoustic experience, making it pleasant for typists who prefer a more subdued keypress sound. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM employs a POM top housing, which also creates a pleasing but distinct sound profile. While still on the deeper side, the POM material generates a slightly more unique and muted auditory experience compared to nylon's classic characteristics.

The bottom housings of the two switches present an interesting parallel as well. Both the Poro and the Sky POM utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which reinforces the similarities in the sound profile they can achieve when bottoming out. With nylon being a classic housing material, both switches will deliver that well-rounded, fuller sound when the keys are fully pressed down. This consistency ensures that the impact of each switch’s design will be felt in similar ways, particularly regarding the tactile feedback and the auditory results when typing. Given that both switches are equipped with nylon on the bottom, users can expect a comparable bottom-out experience from both models.

Despite the differing top housing materials, the overall sound profile and tactile response can still lead to similar typing experiences between the HMX Poro and the Dareu Sky POM due to their shared nylon bottom housings. The combination of a softer nylon base in both switches will contribute significantly to the acoustic output during keypresses, leading to a muted yet rich sound regardless of the distinct top materials. Therefore, while the two switches can exhibit unique characteristics due to their top housings, the performance can converge when it comes to how they feel and sound when fully activated, demonstrating the integral role housing materials play in the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we see notable differences and similarities in their characteristics. The Poro linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a relatively light typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams; however, its bottom out force remains unknown. This makes the Poro the heavier switch in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who favor lighter switches for long typing sessions will find the Sky POM appealing due to its lower actuation force, while the Poro may cater to those who prefer a slightly firmer push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Poro provides a clearer metric for bottom out force, whereas the actuation feel of the Sky POM remains somewhat ambiguous.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Poro switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sky POM switch offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Poro switch is the shorter option, providing a slightly quicker response which could be advantageous for gamers seeking faster actuation times. On the other hand, the Sky POM, with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a bit more depth and tactile feedback in their typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Poro would be the preferable choice, whereas the Sky POM caters to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Poro linear switch presents a distinctively clacky profile that delivers a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. This can be described as a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that adds a lively character to your typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched sound, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This difference means that while the Poro will resonate with a more vibrant and energetic auditory feedback, the Sky POM provides a softer, more subdued sound that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing environment.

In terms of feel, both switches boast similarities with their creamy and smooth characteristics. The HMX Poro linear switch is known for its bouncy, creamy, and feathery sensations, providing a lively rebound with every press, making it feel dynamic and responsive. The Sky POM switch, on the other hand, is described with terms like buttery and silky, emphasizing its fluid and seamless keystroke experience. Both switches offer that creamy typing sensation, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. However, the Poro places a slightly greater emphasis on a spring-like feedback, while the Sky POM focuses on a smoother and more uniform feel.

In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and Dareu Sky POM linear switches share a focus on a smooth typing experience, although they differ in sound profile. The Poro’s clacky sound creates an energetic typing atmosphere, whereas the Sky POM leans towards a more mellow tone. Both switches provide a creamy feel, ensuring a pleasing tactile experience. Selecting between the two ultimately comes down to a preference for auditory feedback and the desired typing sensation; both can deliver an enjoyable experience that caters to different user preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy a light touch and value an engaging typing experience characterized by a bouncy and creamy feel, the Poro switch is an excellent choice. Its ultra-light actuation force, coupled with its clacky sound profile, makes it particularly appealing for those who appreciate a lively, responsive typing sensation whether for gaming or extended writing sessions. On the other hand, if you are leaning towards a smoother and more subdued experience, the Sky POM switch, with its buttery and silky keystrokes, might be more to your liking. This switch's low-pitched sound lends itself well to quieter environments, and its premium POM material ensures you get both comfort and quality without breaking the bank. Thus, consider what aspects matter most to you—be it a more tactile feedback and lively sound from the Poro, or a smoother and quieter experience from the Sky POM—before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky POM Linear

$7.78

$4.98 per 10

Learn more