HMX Poro vs. Dareu Sky V4

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Poro and Dareu Sky V4 offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that provides an effortless glide. This switch is particularly appealing for those who appreciate a poppy and clacky sound profile coupled with an ultra-light actuation force, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out with its innovative POK material in the top housing, producing a deeper, more resonant sound signature that balances smooth linear action with a rich, thocky feel. Typists who seek a more tactile audio feedback may find the Sky V4's bouncy character particularly satisfying during long typing sessions. While both switches deliver smooth performance, their sound profiles and materials create varied experiences that can influence your typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Poro Linear

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Dareu Sky V4, key differences arise primarily in their top housings. The Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for its acoustic properties that produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a sound that is duller and more rounded. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for users who prioritize audio experience while typing. In contrast, the Sky V4 employs a POK (polyketone) top housing, which, although it offers a slightly higher coefficient of friction than nylon, provides notable advantages in terms of smoothness and durability. The output from the Sky V4 is characterized as smoother and more clacky due to the superior shock resistance of POK, which significantly enhances the switch's performance.

Both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, an aspect where they converge in function and sound profile. Nylon's capacity to absorb sound means that both the Poro and the Sky V4 will exhibit a similar pronounced sound when bottoming out. This shared material effectively contributes to the deeper sound that typists experience, showcasing a consistency in the auditory feedback users receive regardless of the switch's top housing. The effect of the nylon bottom housing is crucial, as it is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. Therefore, despite the differences in top housing materials, the bottom housing ties these switches together in terms of audio performance.

In conclusion, while the HMX Poro and the Dareu Sky V4 present distinct qualities through their top housings, they share a common ground in using nylon for their bottom housings. The combination of nylon on both switches offers a deeper, fuller sound profile while typing, ensuring that users will likely experience similar auditory outcomes when bottoming out. However, the different materials in the top housing will influence the overall smoothness and clarity of sounds produced when releasing a key, demonstrating how the material choice can affect both sound signature and tactile feedback during usage.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience similar responsiveness when pressing the keys. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Poro reaching 50 grams and the Sky V4 registering a heavier 55 grams. This distinction means that while both switches feel similarly light during the initial actuation, the Sky V4 requires more force to fully depress the key. Consequently, the Poro is the lighter option overall, which may be preferable for users seeking extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, those who appreciate a slightly more substantial typing experience might lean towards the heavier feel of the Sky V4's bottom out force.

Travel distance

The HMX Poro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Poro switch the longer option, offering a bit more depth in its actuation. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the traditional spectrum, where a travel distance of 4.0 mm is more typical. The marginal difference between these two switches means that users who prefer responsiveness for gaming may find the Sky V4's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm to be more advantageous. However, those who favor a more substantial feedback from their keystrokes may appreciate the extra millimeter provided by the Poro switch. In summary, while both switches facilitate quicker response times suited for fast-paced activities, the HMX Poro offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Dareu Sky V4.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Poro linear switch leans towards a satisfyingly poppy and clacky character, making it an engaging choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. The ultra-light actuation force enhances the experience, allowing the sound to come through with each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a deeper, thocky sound that resonates with a rich, bass-heavy tone when the keys are pressed. The Sky V4's sound can be described as low-pitched, creating a more subdued but warm auditory experience that caters to those who prefer a gentle acoustic footprint during their typing sessions. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, indicating that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting between them.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro’s design ensures a silky smooth keystroke, as each key glides effortlessly under the fingers. This makes for a pleasant typing experience, especially for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. In comparison, the Sky V4 switch features a bouncy sensation that evokes a spring-like feedback as keys are pressed. This liveliness adds an engaging dynamic to the typing experience, as users can feel a delightful rebound after each keystroke. While both switches promise smooth performance, the Poro focuses on effortless gliding, whereas the Sky V4 emphasizes a more lively and responsive feel.

In summary, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a sound profile characterized by a poppy and clacky quality, while the Dareu Sky V4 provides a deeper, thocky experience. In terms of feel, the Poro boasts a silky smoothness, whereas the Sky V4 is defined by its bouncy feedback. Each switch offers unique attributes that cater to different user preferences, making them suitable for distinct typing styles. Ultimately, selecting between these two options will largely depend on personal taste, whether one prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter touch with silky smooth keystrokes, the Poro is an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate a more pronounced pop and clack sound profile that adds to the satisfaction of your typing experience. This makes the Poro ideal for those who might value speed and responsiveness, perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more substantial key feel with a deeper, thocky sound signature, the Sky V4 would likely suit you better. Its medium-light actuation force and bouncy feedback provide a satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and tactile response, making it versatile for both typing and everyday use. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing habits and sound preferences, and choose accordingly for the best mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more