Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Macchiato

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Macchiato present two distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Kailh Box Royal is renowned for its sharp, binary tactility, delivering an assertive feel that many typists crave, particularly those who enjoy a tactile feedback that feels both immediate and pronounced. Its higher-pitched sound profile adds to the engaging experience, making each keystroke feel deliberately satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, aims to provide a silky smooth typing experience, characterized by its clacky and feathery sound profile. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize a seamless glide over each key press while still enjoying a bouncy touch that can enhance overall typing enjoyment. Both switches have their own unique offerings tailored to different tastes—whether you seek the aggressive feedback of the Box Royal or the velvety comfort of the Macchiato. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX Macchiato Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The comparison of the housing materials used in the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Macchiato reveals an interesting similarity, as both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of nylon is significant, as it is a classic material known for its ability to produce a unique sound profile. When typing on either switch, users can expect to experience a deeper and fuller sound, which is attributed to the relatively softer properties of nylon. This softness helps absorb sound, creating a more muted and rounded auditory experience compared to harder plastics, which would generate a sharper and more resonant sound.

Because both the Box Royal and the HMX Macchiato feature identical materials for their top and bottom housings, one can anticipate that the typing feel and sound will be strikingly similar across both switches. The impact of the nylon material is evident not only in the auditory experience but also in the tactile feedback. When pressing down on these switches, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, maintaining a consistent overall typing quality. Similarly, the nylon top housing influences the sound experienced when releasing the key, further enhancing the cohesive auditory profile of both switches.

In conclusion, while the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Macchiato may have different designs or features beyond just their housing materials, the use of nylon in both switches ensures that users will get comparable auditory and tactile outcomes during typing. The combination of similar nylon housings results in a unified sound profile that emphasizes a duller and rounder tone, making both switches desirable for those who appreciate a softer typing experience. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Box Royal or the HMX Macchiato, they're likely to enjoy a harmonized switch experience rooted in the qualities that nylon brings to the table.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that may appeal to those who value a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Macchiato boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a markedly lower bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. This means that the Macchiato is the lighter switch overall, while the Box Royal is heavier, offering a firmer feedback. For users who appreciate a stronger keypress sensation, the Box Royal would be the preferred choice, whereas those looking for ease of use throughout extended periods might lean towards the HMX Macchiato.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of key feel and responsiveness. The Kailh Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Box Royal the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that can be beneficial for gamers who seek quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Macchiato's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more substantial pressing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more traditional switch feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize quick response times or a more satisfying, tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switches produce a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound profile can be quite cutting and may not appeal to users who prefer a more bass-driven auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato switches are described as clacky, delivering a bright and percussive sound that is both sharp and snappy. Both switches offer a clear audio feedback, but the Box Royal leans towards a high-pitched sound while the Macchiato aims for a more lively and dynamic clack.

In terms of feel, the Box Royal is characterized by its sharp tactile feedback, making for an intensely engaging typing experience with a strong, crisp tactile bump that provides clear feedback with each keystroke. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a highly tactile experience, as it delivers distinct responses in every press. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato offers a silky smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance, allowing for effortless key presses. Additionally, it is noted for its bouncy and feathery characteristics, providing a lively and comfortable feel that is less fatiguing for extended typing sessions. This makes the Macchiato particularly appealing for users who prioritize smoothness and minimal effort in their typing.

In conclusion, while the Kailh Box Royal tactile switches and HMX Macchiato linear switches differ significantly in their sound and feel characteristics, both can satisfy different user preferences. The Box Royal is perfect for those who enjoy an assertive tactile sensation coupled with a high-pitched sound, while the Macchiato is suited for individuals seeking smoothness and lightness with a bright, clacky auditory feedback. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on whether one prefers an aggressive tactile response or a silky, bouncy typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box Royal tactile switches and HMX Macchiato linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you thrive on a pronounced tactile experience and enjoy that sharp, aggressive feedback with a heavier bottom-out force of 70 grams, the Box Royal will offer you a satisfying interaction, especially during typing or gaming sessions where tactile response is critical. Its higher-pitched sound profile will also appeal to those who prefer a crisp auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter, smoother feel with less resistance during key presses, the HMX Macchiato is the ideal choice. With its 50 grams bottom-out force and silky smooth operation accompanied by a clacky sound that still maintains brightness, this switch is perfect for extended periods of typing or gaming without straining your fingers. Ultimately, you should consider whether you want a tactile kick and a heavier feel reminiscent of mechanical keyboards' classic charm or a light, smooth, and fun typing experience that allows for speed and comfort.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

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HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more