Durock Black Lotus vs. HMX Macchiato

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Macchiato both offer distinct advantages for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Durock Black Lotus is renowned for its silky smooth feel and precision, with a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. The reduced housing and stem wobble enhance overall typing pleasure, while its unique light column allows for customizable in-switch lighting, catering to those who value aesthetics as much as performance. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is tailored for individuals who enjoy a bright sound profile coupled with smooth keystrokes, offering an engaging auditory experience with every keystroke. Both switches excel in delivering their respective strengths—whether you’re inclined towards the polished performance of the Black Lotus or the vibrant soundscape of the Macchiato. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

HMX Macchiato Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Macchiato, an interesting juxtaposition arises from the materials used in their top housings. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend, which offers a premium and unique feel during typing. This combination of materials adds a distinct tactile experience, likely providing a slightly more pronounced and refined response when keys are actuated. In contrast, the Macchiato's top housing is constructed from classic nylon, known for its softer properties that absorb sound effectively. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile during key presses, creating a typing experience that leans towards warmth and roundness compared to the more defined acoustics of the Black Lotus. The differing compositions of these materials highlight a fundamental choice for users seeking precision versus a more muted auditory environment.

Looking at the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon, which signifies a shared quality in terms of sound and tactile performance. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it contributes to a fuller sound profile regardless of its application as a top or bottom housing. This means that while the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Macchiato may diverge in the feel of their top housings, their bottom housings maintain a consistency that aids in providing a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. The significance of this similarity becomes evident in how the switches feel when bottoming out: the nylon absorbs sound and can help create a muted thud, contributing to a tactile experience that feels cohesive across both models.

Ultimately, understanding how the different materials interact can aid users in selecting the right switch for their needs. The unique properties of each housing material emphasize how tactile feedback and sound profile differ in play, especially when comparing the distinctive characteristics of the top housings. Users can expect a noticeably varied interaction with the Black Lotus and Macchiato but will still appreciate a commonality in the deep, satisfying sound signature that's produced through their nylon bottom housings. This design consideration ensures that, regardless of the top housing's material, the core experience remains rewarding for both models, allowing typists to achieve similar auditory satisfaction in their keystrokes.

Weight

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch present a notable contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In comparison, the Macchiato is significantly lighter, featuring an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which classifies it as light. This difference means that users of the Macchiato will likely find it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch during typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Black Lotus offers a stronger push feel, appealing to individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Macchiato provides a softer response, while the Black Lotus’s higher force leads to a more tactile engagement.

Travel distance

The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equivalent in this aspect. Since they share the same travel distance, users can expect a similar typing experience regarding the depth of keypress. This uniformity allows for a consistent feel and feedback when using either switch, which is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize a uniform actuation across their keyboard setup. Therefore, if you choose either switch, you can anticipate an identical response in terms of travel distance as you press down on the keys.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch remains a mystery as its auditory characteristics are not specified. Meanwhile, the HMX Macchiato switch is noted for having a bright sound profile, which suggests a more pronounced acoustic resonance when typing. This difference implies that if sound quality is a priority, the Macchiato might appeal more to users seeking a vibrant auditory feedback while the lack of information regarding the Black Lotus leaves its sound qualities open to interpretation based on other elements like the keycap material and keyboard build.

When it comes to feel, both the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Macchiato linear switches share a focus on delivering a silky smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus is characterized by descriptors that include silky, buttery, mild, and polished, implying that users can expect an exceptionally smooth, fluid, and refined keystroke experience with minimized resistance. On the other hand, the specific feel of the Macchiato is not detailed, leaving an unknown variable in terms of how it might compare directly to the Black Lotus. However, the shared emphasis on smoothness suggests that both switches should provide a pleasant and comfortable typing experience, catering to those who prioritize ease of use and fluidity.

In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus and HMX Macchiato linear switches are designed for people who appreciate a smooth typing experience, but the specifics differ. The Black Lotus showcases a variety of feel descriptors, indicating a polished and buttery keystroke, while the Macchiato excels in sound with its identifiable bright profile. Without detailed information on the Macchiato's feel or the Black Lotus's sound, one can infer that while they may not be identical in all aspects, they cater to similar preferences in key feel. Ultimately, swaps between these switches would likely yield satisfying results for users looking for comfortable and refined typing experiences, albeit with differing auditory traits.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the HMX Macchiato linear switches should hinge on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you favor a more substantial key feel and appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force, the Black Lotus is an excellent choice. Its silky, buttery smoothness and polished finish provide not only tactile satisfaction but also minimal wobble, ensuring precision in each keystroke. The unique light column adds a visually appealing element, enhancing the aesthetic of your keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for quicker typing or gaming, the HMX Macchiato, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, might be more suitable for you. This switch is designed for a smooth experience coupled with a bright sound profile, making it an ideal option for users who enjoy a more responsive and slightly softer keystroke. Ultimately, both switches deliver commendable performance, so your final decision should reflect your specific typing style and sound preference.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more