Eighty Poron Base vs. Standard Foam: Which Dampening Solution Is Better?

Quick answer

The Eighty Poron base offers superior sound absorption and a softer, more cushioned typing feel compared to standard foam. However, standard foam is often easier to install and more budget-friendly. Choose Poron if you prioritize acoustic refinement and a bouncier feel; choose standard foam for simplicity and cost savings.

When building or upgrading your Mode Eighty, one of the key decisions is how to manage internal sound and flex. The choice between a Poron base and standard foam can significantly affect your typing experience. This comparison breaks down the differences to help you decide which dampening solution fits your preferences.

We'll examine the materials, their impact on sound and feel, and practical considerations like installation and compatibility. By the end, you'll know whether the Poron base is worth the upgrade or if standard foam meets your needs.

What Is Poron and How Does It Differ from Standard Foam?

Poron is a microcellular urethane foam known for its high-density, shock-absorbing properties. In keyboards, it is often used as a case or plate foam to dampen echo and reduce hollowness. Standard foam, on the other hand, typically refers to softer, less dense materials like polyethylene or generic EVA foam. These are often included in budget-friendly foam kits and provide basic sound dampening.

The key difference lies in density and resilience. Poron compresses less under pressure, which means it can absorb more vibration and return to shape quickly. This results in a cleaner, more uniform sound profile and a slightly firmer but cushioned bottom-out. Standard foam is more forgiving and may mute sound but can also mute the natural acoustics of your switches and plate.

• Poron is denser and more resilient than standard foam.
• Poron provides better vibration absorption and sound clarity.
• Standard foam is lighter and often less expensive.

Sound Profile: Poron vs. Standard Foam

The primary reason many enthusiasts choose Poron is its superior sound absorption. Poron's closed-cell structure traps sound waves more effectively, reducing high-pitched pinging and hollowness. This can make your keyboard sound deeper and more 'thocky,' which is often desired in custom builds. Standard foam also dampens sound but may leave more resonance, especially in larger cases like the Eighty.

However, sound preference is subjective. Some users prefer the slightly livelier acoustics that standard foam allows, as it retains more of the switch and plate character. If you want maximum sound control and a consistent acoustic profile, Poron is the better choice. If you prefer a more natural, less muted sound, standard foam might be more to your liking.

• Poron reduces high-pitched resonance and hollowness.
• Standard foam retains more natural switch and plate sound.
• Try both to find your preferred acoustic signature.

Typing Feel: Firmness and Flex

Beyond sound, the material affects how your keyboard feels. Poron's higher density means it provides a firmer, more consistent cushioning under the PCB. This can reduce bottom-out harshness without making the board feel mushy. Some users also find that Poron allows for a slightly bouncier typing experience because it rebounds quickly.

Standard foam, being softer, can absorb more of the impact but may also deaden the flex of a gasket-mounted board. If you enjoy a flexible, bouncy typing feel, Poron's resilience is an advantage. If you prefer a more solid, stable feel, standard foam may be sufficient. Consider your personal preference for flex and bottom-out sensation.

• Poron offers firmer, more consistent cushioning.
• Standard foam may reduce board flex more noticeably.
• Poron rebounds quickly, contributing to a bouncier feel.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation ease is a practical factor. Standard foam kits often come with pre-cut pieces that are easy to place inside the case. Poron bases are also typically pre-cut but may be slightly more rigid, requiring careful alignment. Both are straightforward for most builders, but if you're new to modding, standard foam might be simpler to handle.

Compatibility is crucial. The Mode Eighty is designed to work with various internal components. When choosing a dampening solution, ensure it fits your specific case version and does not interfere with the PCB or mounting system. The 65% Foam Kit from Mode Designs is an example of a kit designed for a specific board, and similar considerations apply to the Eighty. Always check product specifications for compatibility.

• Pre-cut pieces make installation easy for both materials.
• Check compatibility with your specific keyboard model.
• Poron may require more careful alignment due to its rigidity.

Trade-offs to consider

• Sound absorption: Poron provides superior sound absorption, reducing hollowness and pinging. Standard foam offers less damping, preserving more natural acoustics. If you want a deeper, cleaner sound, choose Poron. If you prefer a livelier sound, standard foam may be better.
• Typing feel: Poron's density gives a firmer, more consistent cushion and a bouncier rebound. Standard foam is softer and may deaden flex. For a bouncier feel, pick Poron. For a more solid, stable feel, standard foam works.
• Cost and simplicity: Standard foam is generally more affordable and easier to install. Poron tends to cost more and requires more careful placement. If budget is a concern, standard foam is a practical choice. If you're willing to invest, Poron offers performance benefits.

Product facts at a glance

• 65% Foam Kit: Every piece of foam you could ever want for your SixtyFive or Encore. Each piece can be incorporated or not to alter the sound profile of the keyboard. The SixtyFive does not include a foam kit by default and must be purchased separately. The foam kit includes all three of the following pieces: 1x Poron plate foam 1x Poron case foam 1x PE Foam This kit demonstrates how Poron and PE foam pieces can be mixed to fine-tune sound. For the Eighty, similar principles apply: you can choose which layers to include based on your acoustic goals.
• Eighty Plate: ANSI layout is the standard layout used in the United States and many other countries. The ANSI full plate will include cutouts in this layout to provide support for the switches. ISO layout is the standard layout used in many European countries. The ISO plate will include cutouts in this layout to provide support for the switches. The plate interacts with your dampening material. Choosing the correct plate layout ensures proper switch support, and pairing it with the right foam can optimize both sound and feel.

How to choose for your build

Best for

• Enthusiasts who want maximum sound dampening and a refined acoustic profile.
• Typers who prefer a firmer, more consistent bottom-out with a bouncy rebound.

Not for

• Budget-conscious builders who prioritize cost over acoustic perfection.
• Users who prefer a more natural, unmuted sound and a softer, more flexible typing feel.

Ultimately, the choice between an Eighty Poron base and standard foam comes down to your priorities. If you value a quieter, deeper sound and a bouncier typing experience, Poron is the superior dampening solution. If you're looking for a simple, affordable way to reduce hollowness without altering the character of your board, standard foam remains a reliable option. Consider your budget, sound preferences, and desired feel to make the right decision for your Mode Eighty build.