Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, making the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Macchiato two enticing options for different kinds of users. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch that stands out for its crisp tactile feedback and distinct audible click, making it ideal for typists who enjoy the satisfying sound and sensation of each keystroke. Its clicky nature promotes a more engaging typing experience, often favored by those who prefer a tactile element in their interactions. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato offers a silky smooth typing experience that users seek for a more fluid feel. Its clacky, feathery characteristics contribute to a sound profile that captivates without overwhelming, attracting gamers and typists alike who value speed and agility in their keystrokes. While the Box White V2 is celebrated for its feedback and sound, the Macchiato highlights a softer touch and smooth glide. Each switch caters to specific preferences, but 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
The Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Macchiato differ significantly in their top housing materials, leading to distinct auditory profiles during use. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is primarily due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which allows it to resonate more freely and produce a more vibrant sound. Additionally, its translucency is advantageous for enhancing RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those who favor aesthetics alongside functionality. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more vibrations and sound, creating a rounder and less piercing auditory experience. Overall, the choice of top housing material heavily influences the unique sound signature each switch produces, with the Box White V2 favoring brightness and the Macchiato emphasizing warmth.
While the top housings of these switches are quite different, their bottom housings share the same material—nylon. Both the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Macchiato offer nylon in their bottom housings, contributing similarly to the overall sound profile, especially when pressing down on the switches. The nylon in both switches provides a cushioned feel and enhances the depth of sound during key actuation, creating a consistent, fuller auditory experience. In this scenario, the nylon bottom housing plays a critical role in defining the overall sound when keys are fully pressed down, allowing users to experience a satisfying and rounded bottom-out sound with both switches, regardless of the differing top housing materials.
In essence, while the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Macchiato switches utilize different materials for their top housings—polycarbonate and nylon respectively—their shared nylon bottom housing creates an interesting interplay between sound profiles. The Box White V2's sharper, more pronounced sound contrasts with the Macchiato's deeper, warmer tones, but both benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon in their lower halves. Users can expect a different typing experience depending on their switch choice, but with both featuring nylon in the bottom housing, they will have a consistent foundation in terms of sound and feel when pressing down the keys. Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch results in a rich diversity of sound profiles and tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there are noteworthy differences in their actuation forces. The Box White V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the HMX Macchiato’s actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Macchiato switch is lighter, requiring less force to initiate a keystroke, which could be particularly advantageous for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they bottom out at an equal pressure. This similarity allows users to expect a comparable feel when bottoming out, regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the Kailh Box White V2 is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, while the Macchiato offers a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that the Box White V2 provides a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Macchiato's longer travel distance of 4 mm allows for a more pronounced actuation, offering a deeper tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying compared to the brisk feedback of the Box White V2. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on personal preference: if you prefer a snappier response, the Box White V2 is the way to go, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press might lean towards the Macchiato.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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
The Kailh Box White V2 switch produces a distinctive, sharp clicking sound that is crisp and pronounced, ideal for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. This sound signature makes it perfect for users who prefer to hear the results of their keystrokes, enhancing the mechanical experience. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato switch offers a clacky sound profile that is also bright and percussive. Its sound contributes to an energetic typing experience, though it may be less distinct than the click of the Box White V2. Ultimately, both switches provide a unique auditory experience, but the Box White V2 stands out with its more aggressive click, while the Macchiato leans towards a snappier clack.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switch is often recognized for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump during actuation, although specific descriptions of its feel are not provided. The HMX Macchiato, on the other hand, offers a blend of silky smoothness, bouncy responsiveness, and a feathery lightness in actuation. This combination makes the Macchiato an excellent choice for those who desire a seamless and dynamic typing experience, minimizing fatigue over long sessions. While the Box White V2 offers a more tactile sensation, the Macchiato prioritizes smoothness and light actuation, presenting distinct preferences for users.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Macchiato switches cater to different typing experiences. If you seek a pronounced click and tactile feedback, the Box White V2 will satisfy that preference effectively. Conversely, if you prefer a silky and light touch with an overall smooth typing process, the Macchiato will deliver. Each switch brings its own attributes to the table, allowing users to choose based on their typing style and sound preference. Overall, both switches provide satisfying experiences, catering to various needs and preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feel alongside an audible click that provides clear feedback with each keystroke, the Kailh Box White V2 is an excellent choice. Its light 50g actuation force, coupled with its crisp and expressive sound, makes it particularly appealing for typists who thrive on auditory cues and prefer a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the HMX Macchiato shines with its silky, bouncy, and feathery characteristics. This switch is perfect for those who type extensively and seek minimal resistance, allowing for comfortable extended sessions whether for gaming, studying, or general productivity. In summary, choose the Box White V2 for its tactile and audible feedback and the Macchiato for its smooth, responsive feel, aligning your switch choice with your unique typing preferences.
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