HMX Poro vs. Gateron Smoothie

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options emerge: the HMX Poro and the Gateron Smoothie, both of which fall within the linear switch category. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its remarkably silky smooth keystrokes, achieved through meticulous lubrication that offers an effortless glide. With its ultra-light actuation force, the Poro delivers a satisfyingly poppy yet clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate tactile feedback and audible cues while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out as an all-POM switch that delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank. Known for its thocky sound signature and buttery smoothness, the Smoothie provides a lightweight touch that appeals to users seeking an elevated typing experience with a more subdued acoustic profile. Both switches have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, making the choice between them a matter of personal taste and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Poro Linear

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Gateron Smoothie, it becomes evident that while they utilize different base materials—nylon for the Poro and POM for the Smoothie—both switches aim to achieve a similarly appealing sound profile. The Poro's nylon top and bottom housings are celebrated for their soft texture, contributing to a deeper and rounder sound that absorbs noise efficiently. This ability is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which effectively dampens acoustic resonance, resulting in a fuller auditory experience when typing.

In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie’s POM housing provides a unique texture and sound quality that is distinct yet shares a similar intention. The POM material also produces a muted and deep sound profile, though it is characterized as uniquely pleasing. Despite the difference in materials, both switches exhibit a tendency to create a rounder and more subdued auditory experience compared to their counterparts with harder plastics. This contrasts the sharper or more pronounced sounds that might come from harder materials, reinforcing that both switches, in their own right, can deliver a satisfying typing experience.

Moreover, since each switch's performance is influenced by the characteristics of both the top and bottom housings, the differences in sound profile and feel come from how the materials interact with each other. For instance, while the Poro’s nylon contributes to a dull sound when bottoming out, the Smoothie’s POM can enhance the release sound, allowing users to experience a nuanced combination of both materials' qualities. Ultimately, regardless of the material differences, users can expect a satisfying, muted auditory experience from both switches, albeit achieved through slightly different acoustic properties.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Poro features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a relatively light option that can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams; however, its bottom out force remains unspecified. This ambiguity means we can't definitively compare how the switches feel at their limits. If the Smoothie's bottom out force were to be comparable to the Poro's 50 grams, users might find the overall typing experience similarly satisfying, yet the exact dynamics might vary. Overall, the Poro is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, while the Smoothie provides a lighter actuation feel, appealing to those who prefer effortless keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro and Gateron Smoothie linear switches, the Poro features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Smoothie has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Poro the longer option by just 0.1 mm. Both switches are relatively close in travel distance, with the Poro offering a slightly deeper feel that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feedback during key presses. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie, with its shorter travel distance, may be more suitable for those who favor quicker response times, such as gamers looking for rapid actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the associated tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Poro linear switch produces a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which is notable for its ultra-light actuation force. This sound is characterized by an energetic and somewhat pronounced quality that can be enjoyable for those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky sound signature, delivering a deeper, richer auditory experience. Its low-pitched and subdued tones create a softer, more mellow sound when actuated, resembling a low “thud” rather than a sharp click. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Poro is more lively, while the Smoothie leans towards a bass-heavy, refined sound.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro switch is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide during typing. This creates a pleasant typing sensation, although specific quantitative descriptions of its tactile feedback are not provided. The Gateron Smoothie showcases a range of feel descriptors, notably buttery, creamy, and silky, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Users can expect a seamless transition as their fingers glide across the keys, aided by the high-quality materials used in its construction. While the tactile feedback of the Poro isn't explicitly outlined, the Smoothie's luxurious sensation stands out, making it an appealing option for those prioritizing a smooth typing experience.

In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences suited for different typing preferences. The Poro delivers a more vibrant and lively sound with an effortless glide, making it a fun choice for those who enjoy feedback from their keystrokes. Alternatively, the Smoothie provides a deeper, subdued sound paired with an exceptionally creamy and silky typing experience, catering to users seeking a smooth and luxurious feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize lively auditory feedback or an ultra-smooth typing sensation. Either option promises a quality experience, but they each deliver that experience in their own distinctive way.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you favor an ultra-light actuation force combined with a silky smooth keystroke and a satisfyingly poppy sound profile, the HMX Poro might be your go-to option. Its meticulous lubrication ensures a seamless glide, making it ideal for long typing sessions or intense gaming marathons where speed and comfort are paramount. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a budget-friendly switch that doesn’t compromise on quality and crave a deeper, thocky sound accompanied by a buttery smooth tactile experience, then the Gateron Smoothie would likely serve you better. Its creamy and subdued sound adds an enjoyable auditory layer to your typing, perfect for those who appreciate a rich acoustic experience without being overly loud. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and ergonomics when making your decision, and you'll be sure to find satisfaction in either choice.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more