HMX Poro vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options to consider are the HMX Poro linear switches and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its ultra-smooth keystrokes, thanks to meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. With a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, these linear switches offer a light actuation force that many gamers and typists find appealing for rapid, uninterrupted keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches provide a tactile feedback that enhances the typing sensation, delivering a subtle to moderate bump with each key press. Their balanced sound profile complements this tactile quality, making them a favorite for those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and quietness or tactile feedback and auditory delight. 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
50g
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
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Poro and Gateron Weightlessness switches display striking similarities, both benefiting from the use of nylon, a well-regarded material in the realm of mechanical switches for its sound-dampening properties. Both the top and bottom housings of each switch are crafted from this classic material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon typing. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rich auditory experience characterized by a duller, rounder tone. Because of these shared attributes, users can expect similar acoustic qualities when typing on either switch, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials are identical in each case, the impact of the housing configuration may differ slightly depending on how these switches interact during usage. The bottom housing of a switch plays a crucial role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the upper housing is more pronounced in the sound produced when releasing a key. Since both the Poro and Weightlessness utilize nylon for both top and bottom housings, users can expect consistent performance in both regards, from the sound generated at the bottom-out to the resonance when releasing the keys. This aspect underscores how the perception of typing feedback might be similar across both models, thanks to the matching materials.
Despite their shared nylon construction and the resulting auditory characteristics, individual preferences may lead users to prefer one switch over the other based on subjective feel and key response. However, since the housings for both the HMX Poro and Gateron Weightlessness are crafted from the same nylon, enthusiasts can anticipate an equivalent auditory profile. It is noteworthy that the performance attributes of both switches, as they relate to sound and feel, are engrained in the quality of the materials and their respective configurations, ensuring that each switch delivers an enriching experience, albeit with the potential for personal variability in tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal notable differences in typing experience. The Poro features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, while the Weightlessness switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, its bottom out force remains unknown. This results in some uncertainty regarding the overall feel when fully pressing down on the key. Therefore, while the Poro is the lighter option, offering a gentler typing experience, the Weightlessness may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push, albeit with less specific information on the bottom out experience. Overall, if users want a lighter switch for prolonged use, the HMX Poro would be the better choice.
Travel distance
The HMX Poro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch is slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This difference highlights a key consideration for users: those who prioritize responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience may find the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness switch more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation. In contrast, the Poro switch's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel, catering to users who prefer the tactile feedback associated with a deeper engagement. Both switches present distinct advantages depending on individual preferences; however, if you're looking for a balance between comfort and speed, the Poro's longer travel distance might be the better choice.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 linear switch offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which is characterized by its ultra-light actuation force. This lively acoustic quality enhances the typing experience, making each keystroke feel more engaging and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch features a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile characteristics. While the Weightlessness switch may not have the pronounced sound of the Poro, its subtle to moderate acoustic feedback provides a more subdued but pleasant auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound may come down to personal preference—whether one prefers the lively clack of the Poro or the balanced notes of the Weightlessness.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro linear switch is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, which are achieved through meticulous lubrication. This ensures an effortless glide that many users find satisfying, particularly for users who appreciate a fluid typing experience without any tactile resistance. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offers a subtle to moderate tactile feel, providing users with physical feedback upon actuation without being overly pronounced. This makes the Weightlessness switch a good option for those seeking a balance between a smooth stroke and tactile sensation. Therefore, the distinction in feel—where the Poro excels in fluidity and the Weightlessness in tactile feedback—can greatly influence user preference depending on individual typing or gaming styles.
In conclusion, both the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Poro excels in delivering a lively sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, making it ideal for those who prioritize a dynamic auditory experience and fluid keystrokes. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch offers a more balanced sound paired with a subtle tactile feedback, appealing to users who appreciate a moderate level of resistance without sacrificing smoothness. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on the sound profile and typing feel that best suits your personal taste and intended use, as both switches are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you favor a smooth and fluid keystroke that's both light and effortless, the Poro is the way to go. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a comfortable experience for those who frequently type or game for extended periods, allowing your fingers to glide over the keys with ease. The poppy and clacky sound profile enhances the tactile feedback, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. On the other hand, if you appreciate a balance between tactile feedback and sound, the Weightlessness is an excellent choice. While this switch does not have a defined bottom-out force, its subtle to moderate tactile feel can enhance your typing experience, allowing you to enjoy the tangible feedback without the noise associated with more pronounced switches. The balanced sound profile of the Weightlessness complements its tactile nature, providing a satisfying yet subdued auditory response. Therefore, consider what you value more in your typing experience—smoothness and lightness with the Poro, or a tactile and balanced feel with the Weightlessness. Your choice will ultimately shape how you interact with your mechanical keyboard.
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