HMX Poro vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it’s essential to consider the unique characteristics that enhance your typing experience. The HMX Poro linear switches are celebrated for their silky smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated to provide an effortless glide with a satisfying clacky sound profile. These switches are ideal for users who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, making them a great choice for gamers and typists who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switches offer a gentle tactile experience, featuring smooth actuation and a balanced, pleasing sound signature. These tactile switches make for an enjoyable typing experience, catering to those who appreciate feedback without the distraction of an overly loud typing sound. Ultimately, the decision between a linear switch like the Poro and a tactile switch like the Violet boils down to personal preference in feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Jerrzi Violet, distinct characteristics emerge, particularly in the top housings that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer nature which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This type of material tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a mellower auditory experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and produces a sharper, crisper sound. The clarity and resonant quality of polycarbonate lend themselves well to a more pronounced auditory feedback, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, as its translucent nature enhances illumination effects. As a result, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences based on their top housing materials, they cater to different preferences regarding sound.
The bottom housings of both the HMX Poro and the Jerrzi Violet share a common thread, as both utilize nylon. This choice of material ensures a consistent sound quality characterized by the same deep and full sound profile associated with nylon. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it greatly contributes to the bottom-out feel of the switch, offering a rounded auditory response regardless of the switch's top housing material. This similarity in bottom housing allows both switches to provide users with a similar tactile experience, reinforcing a deep sound signature upon key actuation.
The interplay between the top and bottom housings creates a unique synergy in the auditory and tactile experiences of these switches. While the Poro's nylon top housing dampens sound to produce a deep, muted response, the Violet's polycarbonate top housing brings a crispness to the table. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent base sound profile, regardless of the differences found in the top housings. Consequently, users can enjoy a rich, full-bottom sound from both switches when pressed, while the differentiation in top housings adjusts the auditory feedback during release. Thus, even though the HMX Poro and Jerrzi Violet utilize different materials for their top housings, the nylon bottom housing allows for a similar foundational sound, yielding a blend of qualities that can cater to various preferences.
Weight
The HMX Poro linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both the Poro and Violet switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, resulting in a consistent trigger feel. This commonality means that users looking for a lighter typing experience will find both switches equally accommodating, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. However, the Poro switch has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating the additional pressure required to press the switch all the way down. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet provides no specified bottom out force, which leaves its heavier bottom out feel unknown. Consequently, while the Poro is lighter overall due to its 50-gram bottom out force, the Violet could potentially offer a different tactile response or sensation when pressed fully, depending on its unprovided specifications. Thus, users seeking a more substantial feel in their typing experience may gravitate towards the Jerrzi if it offers a heavier bottom out, while those prioritizing comfort during lengthy use would prefer the lighter HMX Poro switch.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch are both identical at 3.7 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on either switch, making them comparable in terms of keypress feedback. Because both switches have the same travel distance, individuals seeking a consistent typing experience will find either switch suitable for their preferences, as the depth and engagement will be the same.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The Poro switch produces a poppy and clacky sound, characterized by sharp and snappy auditory feedback as you type. This crisp and bright sound helps to create an engaging experience, allowing users to savor the auditory aspects of their keystrokes. In contrast, the Violet switch features a neutral sound signature, delivering a more balanced and understated auditory feedback. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting, as it provides a moderate sound level without drawing too much attention. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on whether one prefers the more expressive sound of the Poro or the subtlety of the Violet.
In terms of feel, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a delightfully bouncy experience, providing a spring-like feedback that makes each keystroke lively. Coupled with its creamy and feathery qualities, the Poro switch ensures a silky smooth typing experience, where fingers glide effortlessly over the keys. This combination is particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions, minimizing fatigue due to the light actuation force. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch features a stepped tactile feel, allowing users to experience two distinct stages in their keystrokes, providing a gentle bump that signals actuation. While it offers a tactile feedback, it is more subdued compared to the Poro’s lively characteristics. Hence, users seeking a vibrant and effortless typing experience may prefer the Poro, whereas those who enjoy a more moderate tactile sensation might gravitate toward the Violet.
In conclusion, the HMX Poro linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provide two compelling options, each with unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Poro switch excels in producing a lively and clacky sound, along with a bouncy, creamy, and feathery feel that enhances typing dynamics. Conversely, the Violet provides a more neutral sound that maintains a balanced auditory profile, with a gentle stepped tactile feedback that caters to those who prefer a more subtle sensation. Ultimately, the choice will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, allowing users to select the switch that best fits their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter key feel with silky smooth keystrokes and enjoy the satisfying clacky sound profile, the HMX Poro is the ideal choice. Its light bottom-out force and bouncy, creamy feel make it perfect for extended typing sessions or fast-paced gaming, where quick and effortless key presses are beneficial. On the other hand, if you appreciate a gentle tactile feedback without an overly sharp auditory experience, the Jerrzi Violet is a suitable option. Its neutral sound and stepped tactile feel provide a more grounded typing experience, ideal for both office environments and general use, where the sound level is a consideration. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you desire a lively and dynamic feel with the Poro, or a balanced and moderated tactile experience with the Violet.
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