HMX Poro vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Poro and the Gazzew U4T can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Poro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, featuring meticulously lubricated components that allow for an effortless glide. Users of the Poro often appreciate its ultra-light actuation force, which enhances speed and reduces finger fatigue during extended use, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who crave a fluid and responsive feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that offers a rich combination of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing both auditory and tactile pleasure with its bassy ‘thock’ sound profile. This assertive tactile feedback caters to those who enjoy a pronounced sensation with each keystroke, ideal for typists seeking a more engaging and satisfying experience. While both switches offer unique advantages—smoothness versus tactile feedback—your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and intended use. 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

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Gazzew U4T switches, one immediately notes the use of nylon and the proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic." Both the Poro and U4T utilize soft materials for their top and bottom housings, which fundamentally contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Poro's nylon offers classic characteristics attributed to softer plastics, such as sound absorption and a rounder tonal quality. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T’s proprietary blend is designed to replicate these acoustic properties, enhancing the overall typing experience with its softness. As a result, both switches are crafted to produce a rich auditory feedback, focusing on a desirable sound experience when typing.

In examining the housing materials further, it is noteworthy that while the top and bottom housing of both switches employ different plastic types—nylon for the Poro and the Gazzew blend for the U4T—their qualities still align closely. The softness of both materials contributes to sound dampening, creating a muted bottom-out sound that is pleasing to the ear. However, it is essential to understand that the distinction in materials can lead to variance in the tactile feedback experienced by the user. With nylon’s classic appeal providing a traditional feel and Gazzew's blend potentially altering the dynamics subtly, users may find that the overall typing experience, though similar in richness, can differ depending on individual preferences and sensitivity to tactile nuances.

Finally, when considering their performance, the combination of each switch’s top and bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the way sound and feel materialize during use. Although the Poro uses entirely nylon for both components, and the U4T incorporates a proprietary mix, the resulting acoustic signatures are likely to converge around a common theme of depth and fullness. As such, users seeking a rich auditory feedback can expect satisfactory performance from both switches, despite the differences in housing materials. With the right typing technique and stroke mechanics, those who appreciate the softer feel and sound from either option will find their experiences comparable and enjoyable.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in their force characteristics. The HMX Poro features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also light. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T does not have a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This difference in bottom out force suggests that while the Poro is designed for ease of use and comfort during prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the U4T may provide a more substantial tactile feedback experience preferred by those who enjoy a heavier switch. Overall, the HMX Poro is the lighter option, while the Gazzew U4T offers a heavier feel, appealing to different user preferences in keyboard feel and typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The HMX Poro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gazzew U4T measures at 4.0 mm. This makes the Poro the shorter option, catering to users who prefer a quicker and more responsive feel, particularly appreciated by gamers seeking speed in their keystrokes. In contrast, the U4T, with its longer 4.0 mm travel distance, may provide a more tactile and pronounced experience, appealing to those who favor a deeper sensation in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches reflects personal preferences, with the HMX Poro offering less travel for a snappier response, while the Gazzew U4T supports a more substantial key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Poro linear switch offers a sound profile that is notably poppy and clacky, thanks in part to its ultra-light actuation force. This creates an auditory experience characterized by bright, cheerful notes that engage the user without overwhelming them. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch delivers a much deeper auditory experience, blending a bassy richness with a thocky resonance that provides a pronounced and satisfying sound upon each keystroke. The U4T’s sound is more profound and weighty, making each press feel impactful and distinct, creating a stark contrast to the lightheartedness of the Poro.

When it comes to feel, the Poro linear switch is designed for smooth and effortless keystrokes, providing a fluid typing experience that minimizes any tactile resistance. This smoothness allows for rapid and seamless key presses, ideal for users who prefer a gliding sensation without interruptions. Conversely, the U4T tactile switch features sharp tactile feedback, which means that users will experience a strong, crisp bump with each keystroke. This assertive feedback is ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging and responsive feel while typing, creating a more dynamic interaction with the keyboard.

In summary, the HMX Poro and Gazzew U4T serve different preferences in sound and feel, catering to distinct user experiences. While the Poro offers a light, poppy sound with a smooth feel perfect for quick typing, the U4T delivers a rich, bassy sound complemented by sharp tactile feedback for a more deliberate typing experience. Depending on what you value more—sound dynamics or tactile engagement—both switches have unique offerings that can satisfy different typing styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, your usage preferences and typing style will play a significant role in making the best choice. If you prefer a lighter touch with a gliding feel, the Poro switch offers a smooth, effortless experience with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming where speed is crucial. Its poppy sound profile enhances the auditory experience without being overly loud, allowing for an enjoyable typing environment. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more pronounced tactile feel and deeper auditory feedback, the Gazzew U4T should be your go-to option. With its 65-gram actuation force, it provides a medium-heavy resistance that is perfect for those who appreciate a solid feedback with each keystroke. The bassy and thocky sound signature, paired with its sharp tactile bump, delivers a satisfying experience that can make typing feel more engaging and rewarding. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you value speed and smoothness or tactile feedback and auditory richness in your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more