HMX Poro vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Poro and the Gateron Type S both offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Poro stands out with its ultra-light actuation force and silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication, resulting in a bouncy and creamy feel that's complemented by a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. This makes the Poro ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch and a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Type S offers a weightier 65g bottom-out force, providing a more substantial feel for typists who favor a firmer tactile experience. Its sound profile, while still balanced, leans towards a deeper and more neutral tone, appealing to users who might find the Poro's sound too extreme or high-pitched. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a bouncy, lightweight keystroke or a more grounded, neutral feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Gateron Type S switches are notably similar, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common choice of material lends both switches a distinct acoustic profile characterized by a deeper and fuller sound. Due to nylon's softer plastic composition, it effectively absorbs sound waves, resulting in a muted, rounded auditory experience when the keys are pressed. Consequently, users can expect a comparable typing sound and feel when utilizing either switch, making them ideal for those who prioritize acoustics in their keyboard experience.
While the top and bottom housings are identical in composition for both the Poro and Type S switches, the interaction between these housings influences the overall sensory experience of the switches. The bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, which refers to the sensation and sound experienced when a key is fully pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced as the key is released. Therefore, despite both switches being made from nylon, the overall typing experience could be slightly different depending on the specific design and engineering of each switch.
In summary, while the HMX Poro and Gateron Type S switches share the same nylon housing materials, their acoustic properties and user experience demonstrate a careful balance of influence between the top and bottom housings. Because both switches offer the same nylon composition, users can anticipate that the auditory feedback will remain relatively consistent, reinforcing an enjoyable typing experience. Whether one opts for the Poro or Type S model, the notable reduction in sound harshness and the appeal of a fuller sound profile will appeal to enthusiasts seeking a quieter yet satisfying key feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, a notable difference exists in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Poro features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it requires less effort to press the keys. In contrast, the Type S offers a more substantial experience with a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who prefer a firmer tactile response. While both switches have distinct actuation and bottom out forces, this means that users of the Poro will experience a softer touch, whereas those opting for the Type S will engage with a more robust push feel. Thus, if you're looking for a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use, the HMX Poro is the better choice; however, if you seek a stronger, more tactile feedback, the Gateron Type S stands out as the heavier option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, the differences become quite evident. The Poro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Type S offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Poro the shorter option, appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times and a more immediate feedback feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Type S, with its greater travel distance, might cater more to users who enjoy a more substantial and deeper key press, as it provides that hearty depth often preferred by those who find shorter distances too abrupt. Both switches, however, are within the range of traditional travel distances, thereby offering similar overall performance, though the specific preference for responsiveness versus depth will ultimately guide user choice between these two switches.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 switches deliver a satisfyingly poppy and clacky experience, characterized by a sharp, snappy noise that adds an engaging auditory feedback to each keystroke. This sound profile, while bright and percussive, is enhanced by the switches being meticulously lubricated, which contributes to that delightful auditory quality. In contrast, the Gateron Type S offers a more neutral sound signature, providing a balanced acoustic experience that is less pronounced than the Poro's clack. This makes the Type S switches suitable for various environments, allowing for a more subdued typing experience without sacrificing functional sound. However, both switches can exhibit varying sound characteristics depending on the keyboard used and the keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Poro switches are known for their bouncy, creamy, and feathery characteristics. The bouncy sensation offers a spring-like feedback, creating an enjoyable typing dynamic that makes each keystroke feel lively and responsive. Additionally, the creamy aspect contributes to a smooth and buttery typing experience that glides effortlessly under your fingertips. The feathery touch of these switches ensures a remarkably light press, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Gateron Type S lacks a specific descriptor for feel, but its 65g bottom-out means that it caters to users who prefer a weightier keystroke. This difference offers a contrasting typing experience that may feel more substantial and controlled, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of resistance.
In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and Gateron Type S linear switches offer unique yet appealing qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Poro's clacky sound and buoyant, silky feel provide an engaging and comfortable typing experience, while the Type S's neutral sound and weightier keystroke allow for a more subdued and controlled approach. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prioritize a lively auditory and tactile feedback or a more balanced and substantial typing experience. Each switch delivers its own charm, so trying them both can help you determine which aligns best with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro and the Gateron Type S linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you value a light and effortless typing experience, the Poro is your best bet; its 50g bottom-out force, combined with a silky smooth feel and pleasingly clacky sound, makes it ideal for extended sessions of fast typing or gaming. The bouncy and feathery characteristics of the Poro also lend themselves well to users who want to minimize finger fatigue over long periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdier and more substantial keystroke, the Gateron Type S with its 65g bottom-out force may be more suited to your tastes. This switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a satisfying balance of weight and acoustics, making it a versatile choice for both work and leisure. In essence, if you seek a lively, dreamy typing experience with a distinct sound, the Poro shines, while the Type S caters to those who appreciate solid yet refined keystrokes in quieter environments.
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