HMX Poro vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Poro and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi present two enticing options within the linear switch category, each boasting unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Poro is celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes, enhanced by meticulous lubrication that results in an effortless glide. Users appreciate the switch's satisfying poppy and clacky sound profile, complemented by an ultra-light actuation force that makes typing feel lively and responsive. In contrast, the WS Morandi focuses on blending innovation and aesthetics, featuring a light column that enhances RGB visuals for a visually appealing setup. Its UPE stem delivers a unique, airy smoothness, along with a muted sound profile from its all-POM housings, creating a more subdued typing experience. While the Poro excels in providing a bouncy and clacky feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a more expressive typing experience, the Morandi satisfies users seeking a more refined, thock-y response and visually striking designs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Poro Linear

Wuque Studio WS Morandi Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.30

$3.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Poro and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, we observe distinct characteristics that influence the sound profiles and tactile feedback of these switches. The Poro utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its softness, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This property allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a dulled and rounder auditory experience. This cohesive use of nylon means that the sound characteristics remain consistent throughout the switch, creating a harmonious typing experience that is both rich and satisfying.

In contrast, the WS Morandi employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is recognized for producing a unique and pleasing sound, which is similarly deep and relatively muted. The advantages of POM lie in its ability to provide a crisp feel while still being forgiving enough to absorb some sound, slightly shifting the harmonic profile compared to nylon. While both materials offer a deep sound, the specific qualities of the POM contribute to a different tactile response that may engage users seeking a distinct typing sensation. Thus, even though both switches may evoke a similar sound depth, the nuanced differences in tactile feedback and sound resonance set them apart.

Interestingly, while the top and bottom housings of the Poro and the WS Morandi differ in material, they can achieve analogous acoustic results due to the nature of the sound profiles each material produces. In switches with contrasting top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound experience splits between them. With the nylon Poro feeling smoother and rounder across the entire switch and the POM Morandi delivering a unique character, users might ultimately appreciate a similar auditory depth despite the variations in housing composition. In both cases, users can expect a pleasing typing experience, albeit with distinct tactile sensations, showcasing how different materials can yield comparable outcomes in sound while providing their own unique properties.

Weight

The HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch present interesting contrasts 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 ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged sessions at work or intense gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS Morandi has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, which can enhance tactile feedback for some users. This difference signifies that the Poro is better suited for users looking for a lighter touch, whereas the Morandi appeals to those who prefer a stronger key press. Overall, while both switches serve different preferences, the Poro's lighter specifications may allow for faster typing and less fatigue over time compared to the more robust Morandi, which can provide a more satisfying tactile experience for users who favor a firmer keystroke.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the HMX Poro linear switch measures 3.7 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Poro offers a deeper key press, which some users might appreciate for a more substantial feel and feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Morandi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as less distance to travel can facilitate faster actuation. If you favor a more responsive experience with the keys, the WS Morandi would be the better choice. However, if you prefer the depth associated with a longer press, the Poro would suit you better. Overall, while both switches offer a relatively shallow travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Poro provides a more pronounced tactile experience than the WS Morandi.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profiles of the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch present distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Poro switch is characterized by its poppy and clacky sound, providing a crisp and bright auditory feedback that can be quite engaging, especially during fast-paced typing or gaming. The sound is sharp and percussive, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced audio experience. In contrast, the WS Morandi lean towards a low-pitched, thocky sound, which exudes a rich and mellow timbre. This subdued auditory quality emphasizes a deep "thud" upon actuation, creating a softer sound that is less obtrusive, making it suitable for quieter environments where a more refined auditory feedback is preferable.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Poro linear switch exhibits a lively and engaging experience with descriptors like bouncy, creamy, and feathery. The bouncy nature provides a spring-like rebound that adds to the overall satisfaction during use, while the creamy quality ensures a buttery smooth glide across the keys, making each keystroke feel effortless. The feathery touch further enhances comfort, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for extended typing sessions without strain. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi also shares a creamy feel, delivering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. However, it adds an element of silkiness, which enhances the overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing the keys, presenting an exceptionally fluid experience that users may find luxurious.

In summary, both the HMX Poro and the WS Morandi linear switches offer distinct yet appealing characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Poro switch provides a lively and engaging sound and feel, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience coupled with a dynamic tactile response. Meanwhile, the WS Morandi appeals to those seeking a more muted sound profile and a buttery smooth typing experience. Although they differ in auditory characteristics, both switches retain a creamy typing sensation, suggesting that users may find satisfaction in either option depending on their priorities for sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences for auditory experience and overall typing feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Poro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light feel and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound profile, the HMX Poro would be a great fit for you—especially if you engage in activities requiring quick keystrokes, like gaming or fast-paced typing. Its silky smoothness and bouncy feel can make extended typing sessions feel effortless and comfortable, which is a significant advantage if you often find yourself at your keyboard for long periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced bottom-out force and are looking for a deeper, richer auditory experience with a muted sound profile, then the WS Morandi switches would serve you well. Their buttery and silky feel offers a touch of innovation and aesthetics, particularly appealing if you enjoy enhanced RGB lighting effects. Overall, consider your typing style and sound preferences carefully to choose the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Poro Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Morandi Linear

$4.30

$3.90 per 10

Learn more