HMX Poro vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Poro and HMX Vintage Citrus offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The HMX Poro, with its silky smooth keystrokes and meticulously lubricated mechanics, delivers an effortless glide that provides a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who appreciate a tactile feedback in their keystrokes without the need for excessive force. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch prioritizes speed, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm that caters specifically to gamers requiring rapid-fire inputs. Its bright, clacky sound profile and remarkably smooth push feel enhance the overall gaming experience, appealing to those who thrive on quick reflexes. While both switches excel in their own right, they cater to different preferences and use cases. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Poro and the HMX Vintage Citrus share the same housing material, using nylon for both the top and bottom housing. This choice of nylon is rooted in its properties as a classic switch housing material, renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. As nylon is a softer plastic, it has an inherent ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder alternatives, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, both switches are crafted to deliver similar acoustic characteristics, making them ideal for users seeking a softer and more muted typing sound.
While both the Poro and Vintage Citrus utilize identical nylon materials for their housings, the experience they provide can still differ based on the tactile feedback and sound produced during key presses. The bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, meaning that users will notice distinctions in how each switch feels when pressed down. This aspect is crucial because although the nylon material offers a consistent sound profile, the overall tactile experience may vary due to the individual design nuances of each switch model.
Overall, the shared nylon construction in both the HMX Poro and HMX Vintage Citrus ensures that users will experience a fundamentally similar auditory experience, characterized by its warm and muted sound. However, subtle differences in the switches' design and engineering can still lead to unique tactile sensations and acoustic cues upon actuation and release. Thus, while the materials are the same, the distinct design features of each switch may cater to varying preferences among typists who might prioritize either tactile feedback or sound characteristics in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch with the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Poro switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as a light switch that caters well to users who prefer less effort when typing or gaming, allowing for extended use with minimal fatigue. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch features a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light and providing a bit more resistance that some users might appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Poro is the lighter option, while the Vintage Citrus offers a heavier feel. Ultimately, users looking for similar typing experiences may find comparable results, but those with a preference for lighter switches should lean toward the Poro, whereas those who enjoy a firmer tactile experience might favor the Vintage Citrus.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Poro switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it the longer option, while the Vintage Citrus features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference can significantly affect user experience; gamers who favor rapid key presses may prefer the Vintage Citrus for its quicker response time, whereas those who appreciate a more tactile feel might opt for the Poro, given its greater depth. Ultimately, individuals’ preferences will guide their choice between these two switches, as the Poro offers a more substantial travel distance, while the Vintage Citrus caters to those who enjoy a more immediate feedback sensation.
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 Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Poro switch features a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which adds an engaging auditory dimension to your typing or gaming experience. Similarly, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch also boasts a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances the excitement of rapid key presses. Both switches deliver a sound that resonates well with users who appreciate a lively acoustic feedback, although the exact tonal quality may vary slightly based on the keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro switch is known for its silky smooth keystrokes that enhance the overall typing experience, thanks in part to meticulous lubrication for an effortless glide. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is engineered for gamers and offers an exceptionally smooth push feel while accommodating rapid inputs due to its low actuation force. Despite their different targeted usages—general typing for the Poro and gaming for the Vintage Citrus—both switches deliver a fluid keystroke experience that provides satisfaction during intense typing or gaming sessions.
Overall, both the HMX Poro and Vintage Citrus linear switches provide an engaging auditory experience with their clacky sound profiles, while also prioritizing a smooth keystroke feel that caters to different user preferences. The Poro is designed for an elegant typing experience, whereas the Vintage Citrus focuses on speed and rapid actuation, making each switch capable of offering enjoyable and responsive performance based on the unique needs of the user. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a luxurious typing experience or a nimble gaming performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a lighter keystroke and a smooth feel, the Poro is an excellent choice, particularly for someone who enjoys a comfortable typing experience with a soft bottom-out force of 50 grams. Its silky smooth action and distinct sound profile make it well-suited for general typing and everyday use. On the other hand, if you're a gamer who values speed and quick response times, the Vintage Citrus will serve you better. Its slightly higher bottom-out force of 53 grams combined with an ultra-low actuation distance of just 1mm allows for lightning-fast keystrokes, which can be a game-changer in competitive settings. Additionally, the Vintage Citrus’s bright, clacky sound and smooth push feel enhance the gaming experience, making it ideal for rapid consecutive key presses. So, base your decision on whether you lean more toward a fluid typing experience with the Poro or a quick and responsive gaming switch with the Vintage Citrus.
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