HMX Poro vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often gravitate towards the HMX Poro and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, both linear switches known for their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, which offer an effortless glide thanks to meticulous lubrication, combined with an ultra-light actuation force that contributes to a satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and comfort during intense gaming sessions or extended typing. In contrast, the WS Jade switch stands out with its metallic insert in the stem base, producing a bright, resonant sound profile complemented by a light diffuser that enhances RGB display effects. Many users find the tactile feedback of the WS Jade to be uniquely creamy and smooth, delivering a rock-solid bottom-out that can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a bit more auditory and sensory richness in their typing experience. While both switches boast excellent features, your choice may boil down to whether you prefer the ultra-smooth action of the Poro or the captivating resonance of the WS Jade. 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

HMX Poro Linear

Wuque Studio WS Jade Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Poro and Wuque Studio WS Jade offer distinct yet comparable approaches to housing materials, which greatly influence the typing experience. The HMX Poro features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness contributes to an absorbent quality that results in a duller, rounder sound, making it a staple in the mechanical keyboard community. Conversely, the WS Jade incorporates POM (polyoxymethylene) in both its top and bottom housings. While POM is also a softer plastic, it presents a different auditory experience; it produces a unique, muted sound that is pleasing yet retains a deeper tone, giving it a distinctive character compared to nylon.

While both keyboard switches prioritize sound absorption, the utility of their respective materials leads to differing auditory experiences. The nylon used in the Poro results in a rounded sound, which is bolstered by its body during key presses and releases. This creates a seamless flow in auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, POM, used by the WS Jade, provides a sound profile that remains rich but tends to offer a more distinct press-and-release sound separation. The POM's muting qualities lend themselves to a cleaner auditory landscape, which may appeal to users seeking a refined typing experience.

Despite their differences in sound profiles, the impact of individual housing materials can yield a somewhat similar end result for users. In both cases, the softness of the materials contributes to a more subdued typing noise compared to switches made of harder plastics. Users familiar with either Poro or WS Jade can expect a satisfying sound dampened by the plushness of the materials used, even if the characteristics of that sound differ. Thus, both switches create an enjoyable typing experience, albeit through the unique attributes of nylon and POM within their respective designs.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. 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 less resistance and extended typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial, push-back feel while typing. This distinction suggests that the Poro would be ideal for users seeking comfort and ease during prolonged use, whereas the Jade might attract individuals who appreciate a firmer interaction with their keyboard. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purposes effectively, the Poro is the lighter option, making it better suited for extended use, while the WS Jade offers a medium weight experience for those who prefer more resistance.

Travel distance

The HMX Poro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Poro switch the longer option, offering a bit more depth when pressed. A longer travel distance can provide a more cushioned feel and may be preferred by users who enjoy a hearty response under their fingers. Conversely, the WS Jade, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, facilitating faster key presses. Thus, if responsiveness is your priority, the WS Jade would be the better choice, while those who favor a bit more depth might lean toward the Poro.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, which results in a sharper and more percussive auditory experience as you type. This sound is enhanced by its ultra-light actuation force, allowing for more audible feedback when keys are engaged and released. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch produces a bright metallic and resonant sound, distinguished by a sharp, clean audio signature. The addition of a metallic insert in the switch enhances the clacky quality, resulting in a higher-pitched sound profile that is both immersive and crisp. While the Poro provides an impressive auditory experience, the WS Jade's unique construction results in a more resonant and dynamic sound that stands out in a similar environment.

When it comes to feel, both switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience, albeit with different qualities. The HMX Poro is known for its silky smooth keystrokes, meticulously lubricated to ensure an effortless glide as fingers travel across the keys. This smoothness minimizes resistance, allowing for an enjoyable typing rhythm. Conversely, the WS Jade offers a creamy feel, characterized by a buttery typing experience created by its unique materials and construction. This switch maintains a smooth transition during each stroke, but it's complemented by a notably rock-solid bottom-out feeling that adds assurance with each keystroke. While the Poro focuses on a silky sensation, the WS Jade combines that smoothness with a sense of stability.

In conclusion, both the HMX Poro and WS Jade linear switches provide distinctive yet enjoyable typing experiences. The Poro is celebrated for its poppy and clacky sound along with its silky smooth feel, making it a delightful choice for users seeking auditory feedback and a seamless glide. In contrast, the WS Jade elevates the auditory experience with a resonant sound profile and combines creamy smoothness with a solid bottom-out feel. While they offer different qualities, both switches cater to enthusiasts desiring a refined and immersive typing experience, making either choice an excellent addition to a mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you favor a lighter key press and enjoy a smooth, effortless typing experience characterized by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound, the HMX Poro is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for users who type quickly and want minimal resistance in their keystrokes, making it ideal for gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a solid bottom-out feel with a more pronounced actuation force, paired with a uniquely creamy and silky typing experience, the WS Jade may be more to your liking. Its distinctive metallic sound profile and enchanting RGB display add an extra layer of satisfaction and aesthetics, making it great for users who enjoy both function and visual appeal. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the environments you typically type in, and your auditory preferences when selecting the switch that will best enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Jade Linear

$4.30 per 10

Learn more