HMX Poro vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often narrows down to preferences in feel, sound, and overall typing experience. The HMX Poro switch offers enthusiasts a silky smooth keystroke thanks to careful lubrication, providing an effortless glide that many find attractive. Its ultra-light actuation force not only enhances its responsiveness but also contributes to a poppy, clacky sound profile that some typists and gamers find exhilarating. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch stands out for its unique internal design, delivering a frictionless glide paired with a delightful springy "Q-texture," reminiscent of enjoying chewy mochi. This switch offers a light actuation force ideal for rapid typing, while its muted sound signature fosters a more subdued environment, appealing to those who prioritize quietude while still enjoying a satisfying keypress. Overall, each switch brings different attributes to the table, making the choice a matter of personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the TTC Venus switches, it is evident that each switch utilizes distinct materials that function differently to influence sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Poro employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, providing a more muted and fuller audio experience during use. This quality is contrasted by the Venus’s use of POM for its top housing, which contributes a unique and pleasing sound profile, though it remains on the deeper side. Both nylon and POM share the characteristic of producing less harsh high-frequency sounds compared to harder plastics, but the nylon’s softer nature tends to result in a slightly more rounded sound compared to the cleaner resonance provided by POM.
In terms of their bottom housings, the HMX Poro once again employs nylon, enhancing the switch's overall sound depth and contributing to the duller, rounder audio experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which produces a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The polycarbonate's rigid structure allows for a clarity that nylon does not match, making for a distinctly crisper auditory feedback when typing. This difference means that while both switches provide a deeply enjoyable experience, the Poro's sound will feel warmer, while the Venus's sound will be more vibrant.
Both switches exhibit how their combined materials influence the overall typing experience, albeit in different ways. For instance, the Poro's nylon top and bottom create a cohesive experience characterized by warmth and roundness, while the Venus's combination of POM and polycarbonate allows for a more layered sound with distinct clarity. When considering performance metrics, if a switch features a nylon top, its ability to absorb sound could contribute to the pleasantness in response felt in the lower end of the audio spectrum, while the polycarbonate's contribution will yield a more pronounced clarity, especially noticeable on the bottom-out and the release. Thus, while the materials differ, users can achieve satisfying results from both switches, tailored to their personal auditory preferences and typing sensations.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is notable that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity is beneficial for users seeking a light typing experience, making both switches suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Poro's being 50 grams and the Venus's being 52 grams, indicating that the Venus provides a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down. As a result, while both switches deliver an identical actuation experience, the Poro offers a lighter overall typing experience due to its lower bottom out force, making it more appealing for those who prefer a softer touch. In contrast, users who enjoy a more substantial feedback with a heavier feel may lean towards the TTC Venus.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch is 3.7 mm, whereas the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.1 mm signifies that the Poro offers a marginally shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to the shorter actuation. Conversely, the Venus, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, potentially allowing for a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, both switches serve distinct preferences, with the Poro catering to those who favor responsiveness and the Venus appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
The HMX Poro linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which makes for a lively and engaging typing experience. This auditory feedback, driven by the ultra-light actuation force, offers a distinct voice, suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch presents a more muted sound signature, designed for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Its low-pitched and subdued output yields a softer typing experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Therefore, if sound is a priority for you, the choice between a fuller sound (Poro) and a quieter approach (Venus) will depend on your personal preference and setting.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro switch stands out with its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to its meticulous lubrication. Users can expect a refined typing experience that is effortless and fluid. Meanwhile, the TTC Venus switch is remarkable for its buttery and frictionless feel, providing an extremely smooth journey through its key travel. The unique "Q-texture" adds a playful element reminiscent of biting into chewy delights, making it a joy to type on. Both switches deliver smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, but the Poro leans towards a more polished feedback, while Venus incorporates a playful quality that may appeal to those looking for a different tactile sensation.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences catering to different preferences. The HMX Poro delivers a clacky sound and a silky typing sensation, appealing to users who appreciate pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Venus promotes a muted sound profile and a playful, buttery feel. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a more subtle and tactile typing experience. Both options promise to provide a delightful route into the world of mechanical keyboards, ensuring a satisfying experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize an ultra-light actuation for rapid typing or gaming and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound that adds character to your setup, the Poro is an excellent choice. Its smooth and polished feel makes it particularly appealing for those who want an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer bottom out force and a subdued, low-pitched sound profile, the Venus might be more suitable for you. Its unique internal design provides a springy yet buttery feel that many find comfortable for long typing sessions or office environments where noise levels should be kept to a minimum. The Venus also stands out with its frictionless glide, making it a great option for those who prioritize a muted yet satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and acoustic preferences to select the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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