HMX Poro vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Poro and the HMX Sunset Gleam presents an intriguing comparison within the realm of linear switches. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its incredibly smooth keystrokes and ultra-light actuation force, which together create a delightful typing experience characterized by a poppy and clacky sound profile. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate a light touch and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately nicknamed the Duck Duck switch, offers a unique blend of materials that enhances its subtle top-out with a distinctly satisfying clack, all while maintaining the exceptional lubrication HMX is known for. This switch caters to those who seek a balance of smoothness and tactile enjoyment, making it an appealing option for various applications. 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

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Poro and HMX Sunset Gleam differ notably in their top housing materials, which contributes distinct sound profiles to each switch. The Poro features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound. This is largely due to nylon’s softer nature, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam employs a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer properties of polycarbonate enhance resonance and clarity, making it ideal for those seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate further distinguishes the Sunset Gleam, especially appealing for setups that incorporate RGB lighting.

While the top housings of the two switches showcase distinct materials and, consequently, unique sound qualities, their bottom housings are the same. Both the HMX Poro and Sunset Gleam utilize nylon for their bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile upon bottoming out. This shared use of nylon means that when users press down on either switch, they will experience a similar tactile sensation and auditory feedback. The nylon construction allows for more sound absorption, contributing to a duller and rounder sound characteristic, which is vital for the perceived feel of the switch despite the contrasting top materials.

When using the HMX switches, the interplay between the top and bottom housings creates an integrated experience. With the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top providing a bright sound kickback as keys are released and the Poro’s nylon bottom ensuring a rich bottom-out feel, users are able to benefit from the strengths of both materials. Because the bottom housings are identical in both switches, the essential auditory feedback upon pressing down is consistent, while the experience upon releasing a key is marked by the differences in top housing materials. This duality allows users to select either switch based on their preferred sound and tactile profile, while experiencing some familiarity in terms of bottom-out response.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Poro and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, both exemplify lighter actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The Poro features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while both switches are on the lighter side, the Sunset Gleam requires a bit less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Poro. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch that demands minimal effort, the HMX Sunset Gleam might be the better choice due to its overall lighter forces. Conversely, the Poro will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience with its greater actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The HMX Poro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm highlights a preference of the Poro for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during key presses, as it offers a deeper feel compared to the more responsive Sunset Gleam. Gamers, for instance, may lean towards the Sunset Gleam for its quicker response time due to its shorter distance, allowing for rapid key actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Poro's longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Poro linear switch produces a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, making it an engaging choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a subtle top-out and a similarly satisfying clack, providing a distinct auditory signature that some may find just as enjoyable. While both switches are designed to deliver pleasing sound characteristics, factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps can further influence how these sounds come across, ensuring that each user might experience these aspects somewhat differently.

When considering the feel, the HMX Poro linear switch is noted for its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that promotes an effortless glide during typing. Contrastingly, the HMX Sunset Gleam is expected to provide a unique tactile feel derived from its specific blend of materials, which works in harmony with its superb factory lubrication to enhance the experience. Although the exact tactile feedback of the Sunset Gleam isn't detailed, both switches support a smooth action that allows for seamless keystrokes.

In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches have their distinctive qualities that appeal to different users. The Poro offers a poppy sound with an exceptionally smooth typing experience, while the Sunset Gleam merges subtle sounds with a potentially unique tactile feel. Whichever switch you choose, both are designed to ensure a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a vibrant auditory environment and smooth keystrokes alike.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you seek a wonderfully smooth and effortless typing experience, the HMX Poro, with its slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams, is an excellent option. The silky glide combined with its poppy and clacky sound can offer a delightful acoustic and tactile feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prioritize a nuanced blend of materials for a rich auditory experience along with a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be your go-to choice. This switch’s subtle top-out sound and satisfying clack create a unique typing sensation, especially for those who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, assess what matters most to you in terms of sound and feel, and you’ll be well on your way to making the right switch selection for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more