Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two intriguing options are the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Macchiato, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance your typing experience. The Dareu Aqua is celebrated for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, which allows for a feather-light touch that promotes effortless keystrokes. This switch is favored by users who enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lively auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, prioritizes a silky smooth typing experience accompanied by a bright sound profile, appealing to users who seek a more refined and fluid interaction with their keyboard. Each switch brings its own unique advantages, with the Aqua offering a fun, playful feel and the Macchiato providing a sophisticated, seamless experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Macchiato, one notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. Moreover, polycarbonate’s translucency makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination effects through the switch. In contrast, the Macchiato employs a nylon top housing that generates a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, yielding a duller and rounder auditory experience. As a result, while the Aqua may appeal to those seeking a clear and bright soundscape, the Macchiato caters to users preferring a more muted tone.
Both the Dareu Aqua and HMX Macchiato share the same nylon bottom housing material, which evens the playing field considerably. Nylon's classic properties contribute to a unified deeper and fuller sound profile, as both switches utilize this softer plastic for the bottom housing. Regardless of the variations in the top housing, the overall sound experience on keystroke bottom-out remains consistent across both models. Users can expect a plush and rounded auditory feedback when the switch is fully depressed, ensuring that both models maintain a level of sound absorption that many typists find desirable.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing between the Aqua and Macchiato influence their respective auditory signatures, while the identical nylon bottom housing retains a certain level of uniformity in sound experience. If users prioritize a more crystalline sound with optimal RGB visibility, the Aqua's polycarbonate top would be preferable. Conversely, those who appreciate a warm and rounded auditory feedback would likely favor the Macchiato's nylon top. In terms of overall tactile sensation during key presses, both switches deliver comparable results thanks to their common bottom housing, making either choice a compelling option depending on the individual's sound preference.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Aqua switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Macchiato requires a heavier actuation force of 42 grams, providing a firmer feel that some users might find more satisfying. Additionally, while the Aqua's bottom out force remains unknown, the Macchiato features a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance upon pressing the key all the way down. Therefore, if you favor a lighter switch with an uncertain bottom out sensation, the Aqua is the way to go, while the Macchiato offers a heavier experience with more tactile feedback both upon actuation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing their keys. This equal distance ensures that both switches offer a consistent feel throughout their activation, providing a uniform response that can be appealing to typists and gamers alike. Since the travel distance is equivalent, users can anticipate similar performance characteristics from either switch, allowing for a seamless transition between the two without a noticeable difference in key feel or feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique auditory experience characterized by a chirpy and clacky sound profile. This means that when you type, you can expect a slight squeak coupled with sharp, snappy sounds, creating a vibrant and lively acoustic atmosphere. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato has a bright sound profile, but specific descriptors aren’t available for this switch. Since sound perception can vary based on the keyboard construction and materials, both switches could potentially offer an engaging auditory experience depending on the setup you choose.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switch excels with its incredibly light 37g actuation force. Users will find the typing experience to be easy and comfortable, as the gentle resistance requires minimal effort to register key presses. This is particularly advantageous for prolonged typing sessions, whether for work, gaming, or school, as it significantly reduces finger fatigue. While the Macchiato switch is noted for providing a silky smooth typing experience, there are no specific descriptors available to compare directly in terms of force or resistance. Therefore, the tactile experience of the Macchiato remains largely unknown, making it difficult to assess how it measures up against the Aqua.
In summary, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its lightweight, easy-to-press feel and vibrant chirpy and clacky sound, making it a fantastic option for users who enjoy a lively typing experience without straining their fingers. The HMX Macchiato linear switch is designed with a bright sound profile and a silky smooth feel, although specific characteristics in terms of sound and actuation force remain unclear. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter switch with a more engaging sound, the Aqua is a solid choice, while the Macchiato may appeal to those seeking smoothness and brightness, pending further details.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, your personal preferences and typing needs should guide your choice. If you prefer a lighter actuation for fast-paced gaming or comfortable typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue, the Aqua's impressive 37g actuation force, along with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, is an excellent option. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a keystroke that feels almost effortless, making it ideal for lengthy periods of use without discomfort. On the other hand, if you value a silky smooth typing experience combined with a distinct sonic profile and don’t mind a bit of resistance at a 50g bottom out force, the Macchiato switch shines with its superior build quality and pleasant sound. This switch may be better suited for typists who appreciate a more gradual tactile feedback and want a switch that offers both comfort and a satisfying auditory experience without the more exaggerated characteristics of the Aqua. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize that extra light touch and sound dynamism of the Aqua or the smooth and refined experience provided by the Macchiato.
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