HMX Poro vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Poro and the HMX Swift can significantly influence your typing experience, despite both being linear switches. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. With a notably light actuation force, this switch offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile that many users find delightful. On the other hand, the HMX Swift distinguishes itself with its deeper sound profile, made possible by its full nylon housing, which is complemented by a smooth keystroke and a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Poro is ideal for those who enjoy a crisp sound and a light touch, the Swift appeals to users seeking a more subdued auditory experience combined with soft yet responsive 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HMX Poro and HMX Swift switches exhibit notable similarities that highlight their design philosophy and intended performance characteristics. Both switches feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a choice that emphasizes a classic approach to switch design. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This shared material composition means that users can expect a similar auditory experience from both the Poro and Swift switches; the sound produced is characterized by a duller, rounder quality, attributed to nylon’s ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics.
Despite their identical housing materials, the way these materials interact with the overall switch experience can differ subtly due to design nuances. For instance, even though both switches utilize nylon, any variations in their internal structures, such as the spring tension or the contact mechanism, could influence how the switches feel during typing and the specific sound profile. However, since both the Poro and Swift switches have the same top and bottom housing material, they are likely to deliver very similar feedback during typing, ensuring that the fundamental characteristics of sound dampening and tactile engagement remain consistent across both models.
In conclusion, while the HMX Poro and HMX Swift switches share the same nylon material for their housings, leading to a comparable audio and tactile experience, any nuanced differences in their internal mechanisms could still contribute to variations in overall performance. Nevertheless, because both switches utilize nylon, users can confidently expect a similar outcome in terms of sound quality and typing feel. This consistency in material choice reinforces the notion that the fundamental properties of the switches are closely aligned, ultimately allowing for a shared perception of performance and enjoyment among both models.
Weight
The HMX Poro and HMX Swift linear switches both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them well-suited for extended typing and gaming sessions. The Poro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Swift features an even lighter actuation force of 42 grams alongside the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Swift requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Poro. However, both switches share the same bottom out force, which ensures that users will feel a similar tactile response when pressing the keys all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Swift may be the more appealing option, while users who appreciate a slightly stronger push might gravitate towards the Poro, even though both switches remain quite comparable in their overall feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Poro, with a travel distance of 3.7 mm, offers a shorter travel compared to the Swift's 3.9 mm. This distinction makes the Poro a more responsive option, catering to gamers who favor quicker actuation for faster response times. On the other hand, the Swift provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feedback and less abrupt feel when pressing keys. For those who prefer a balance between responsiveness and depth, the Swift might be the more suitable choice due to its longer travel distance. Overall, the decision between these two switches will largely depend on individual preferences regarding switch feedback and responsiveness.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Poro linear switch delivers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky audio profile, largely thanks to its ultra-light actuation force and meticulous lubrication. This results in a crisp and bright sound, especially appealing for those who enjoy an auditory cue while typing. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch possesses a deeper sound profile that sets it apart due to its full nylon housing. While the Swift's sound is described as clacky as well, it is characterized by a more resonant quality, providing a distinct auditory experience. However, remember that the overall sound of each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard plate and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Poro linear switch is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, making it a delight to type on. The lubrication applied to these switches contributes to a gentle and effortless glide; however, specific descriptors for the feel are not provided. The Swift switch, on the other hand, is noted for its easy-to-press action, requiring minimal force to activate thanks to a delicate 42g actuation force. Users can expect a bouncy and feathery sensation when engaging with the keys, which reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, its creamy texture enhances the overall experience, giving a smooth and buttery feel that promotes a fluid typing motion.
In summary, both the HMX Poro and Swift switches provide distinct yet enjoyable experiences. While the Poro is characterized by its bright and clacky sound along with a smooth feel, the Swift offers a deeper sound profile combined with an effortless, feathery typing sensation. Both switches ensure a comfortable typing experience, especially for extended use, but they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, whether you choose the Poro or the Swift, you can expect quality performance with satisfying auditory and tactile qualities that enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Poro and HMX Swift linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a more tactile auditory experience, the Poro’s satisfyingly clacky sound profile combined with its meticulously lubricated feel might be ideal for you. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy a bit of feedback and a lively sound while typing or gaming, especially if you engage in activities that benefit from the extra auditory stimulation. On the other hand, if you prioritize an effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, the Swift could be your perfect match. Its deeper sound profile and exceptionally light actuation force make it well-suited for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, where comfort and reduced finger fatigue are paramount. In essence, consider the Poro if you want an engaging tactile feel and sound, while the Swift is perfect for a smooth, gentle touch and a more muted auditory experience.
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