HMX Poro vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Poro and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, and two popular options stand out: the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force, providing a silky smooth typing experience enhanced by meticulous lubrication, resulting in effortless gliding keystrokes. With its poppy and clacky sound profile, it caters to those who appreciate a lively auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a delightful compromise, combining smoothness with a distinct tactile bump, making each keystroke feel engaging without being distracting. Furthermore, its neutral sound signature allows for a quieter typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued auditory environment. Ultimately, both switches have unique attributes that make them desirable for different typing styles; the HMX Poro for its seamless glide and lively sound, and the WS Light Tactile for its engaging tactile feedback and quieter operation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches, a notable distinction arises from the choice of top housing materials. The Poro utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. Nylon's capacity to absorb sound contributes to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile employs a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This rigidity allows for a clearer resonance, especially beneficial in setups utilizing RGB lighting, where the translucency of the material enhances the visual aesthetics of illuminated keys.
Despite the differing materials in their top housings, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, which are made of nylon. This alignment in bottom housing material means that, regardless of the differing top structures, the sound profile during key presses will remain relatively consistent, leading to a fuller sound experience during actuation. The nylon bottom housing, shared by both switches, ensures that the overall feel and bass quality during typing are enhanced similarly, providing a consistent tactile feedback. Therefore, while the top housing can influence the initial sound output and overall typing experience distinctively, the shared nylon bottom housing guarantees a common ground in overall performance.
In essence, the differences in housing materials—nylon for the Poro's top and polycarbonate for the WS Light Tactile's—lead to contrasting sound profiles during key releases. However, the uniformity of nylon for the bottom housing allows both switches to maintain a foundational sound quality during key presses. Consequently, users may experience a nuanced auditory landscape influenced by top housing materials, while the depth and richness associated with nylon in both switches ensure a satisfying tactile response during usage. Thus, while both switches offer unique experiences, they converge on the shared benefits of nylon's acoustic properties in their bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, both exhibit the same actuation and bottom out forces, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This similarity means that users of either switch can expect a consistent typing and gaming experience, as both require the same amount of force to activate keys and bottom out. Additionally, both switches are considered light, making them suitable for long periods of use without causing significant finger fatigue—ideal for those who type extensively or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. Ultimately, since their forces are identical, users seeking a lighter feel and a more effortless keystroke will find both switches equally appealing.
Travel distance
The HMX Poro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Poro switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the WS Light Tactile, which provides a more pronounced and deeper feel when pressed. As a result, gamers and those seeking rapid response times may gravitate towards the Poro for its quicker actuation, while users who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience might prefer the WS Light Tactile for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness and typing feel, with the Poro being the more responsive option and the WS Light Tactile offering a heartier depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile of the HMX Poro linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly poppy and clacky tone, which delivers an engaging auditory experience during use. This lively sound is a result of the ultra-light actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic audio feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch features a neutral sound signature, balanced and unobtrusive, allowing it to blend seamlessly into different environments. This moderate sound profile makes it suitable for various settings—whether at home or work—appealing to users who prefer a more subdued auditory presence.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro switch boasts a silky smooth keystroke owing to its meticulous lubrication, providing an effortless glide with every press. This smoothness is accompanied by an overall linear feel that minimizes any tactile feedback throughout the key travel. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch incorporates a stepped tactile bump that adds a perceptible distinction in the keypress, offering a responsive typing experience. With its easy-to-press action and minimal resistance, the WS Light Tactile switch ensures comfort during extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue while providing an engaging tactile feel.
Overall, while the HMX Poro linear switch and the WS Light Tactile switch cater to different preferences, they each create distinct typing experiences suited to varying needs. The HMX Poro is ideal for users who appreciate a lively sound and a smooth keypress, while the WS Light Tactile is perfect for those seeking a balanced audio profile and a clear tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver enjoyable results tailored to your typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing styles. If you value a fluid and effortlessly smooth typing experience with a poppy, clacky sound profile, the HMX Poro linear switch is likely the better fit for you. Its ultra-light actuation and meticulously lubricated mechanism promote a comfortable typing flow, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or typing where a seamless keystroke is desired. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit of tactile feedback while still maintaining a smooth typing experience, the WS Light Tactile switch would suit you well. Its stepped tactile design provides a discernible bump without the resistance that some may find overwhelming, making it versatile for both casual and professional use. The neutral sound signature ensures it's appropriate for office environments as well. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize smoothness and sound with the Poro or a tactile response with the WS Light Tactile when making your decision, as both can offer an enjoyable typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
