Keygeek Briny vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and HMX Macchiato offer distinct features tailored to different preferences. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an appealing choice for users who appreciate a muted yet satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, focuses on delivering a silky smooth feel and a bright sound profile, catering to enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Both switches are linear, meaning they provide a consistent keypress without tactile bumps, making them ideal for gamers and typists alike. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Macchiato, one notable aspect that stands out is that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a similar sound profile in both models, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound. Since both the Briny and Macchiato employ nylon, typists can expect a comparable auditory experience, with the softer properties of nylon absorbing sound more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption helps create a more subdued and rounded acoustics during typing, reinforcing the allure of these switches for users who prioritize sound quality and typing experience.
Despite the identical housing material, the overall performance and feel may vary slightly based on the design and construction of each switch. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when keys are released. This means that even though both the Briny and Macchiato share the same nylon composition, the unique engineering behind each switch could result in subtle differences in tactile feedback and the pronounced quality of sound. Users might notice variations in the keystrokes' responsiveness and the overall typing experience, even with the same base material.
In conclusion, while both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Macchiato utilize nylon for their housings, leading to a similarly full and deep sound profile, the design details of each switch could create nuanced differences in typing dynamics. Both models excel in delivering an enjoyable and engaging typing experience characterized by sound absorption, yet individual preferences in switch feel may drive users to choose one over the other based on factors beyond just the material. Ultimately, the choice between the two could come down to personal preference regarding their specific tactile feedback and the acoustics that emerge during usage.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch present different characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range, while the Macchiato is lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This distinction means that typists and gamers who prefer a lighter touch for extended use might gravitate towards the Macchiato, enjoying both comfort and ease during long sessions. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel might find the Briny’s slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces more satisfying. Overall, the Macchiato offers a gentler typing experience, whereas the Briny caters to those who prefer a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, the Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Macchiato features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key aspect of user experience: the Briny, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times and greater precision, whereas the Macchiato appeals to those who appreciate the deeper feedback and a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, if you are drawn to nimbleness and rapid actuation, the Briny might be your best choice, but if you prefer a more substantial keypress, the Macchiato would serve you well with its greater travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, which makes it suitable for a variety of environments without being overly intrusive. This neutrality can be appealing to users who appreciate a moderate audio experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato linear switch presents a brighter sound profile, likely contributing to a more pronounced auditory feedback during keystrokes. The distinction in sound character may cater to different preferences; the Briny suits those who prefer a more subdued auditory backdrop, while the Macchiato will attract those who enjoy a more vibrant acoustic sensation. Ultimately, the specific sound your keyboard emits is also influenced by your choice of board and keycaps, so these qualities should also be considered when making a decision.
When it comes to feel, the Briny linear switch is characterized by its smoothness, which allows for a pleasant typing experience. This smooth action contributes to the switch's overall functionality, making it ideal for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato is specifically crafted for a silky smooth typing experience, promising a seamless interaction with each keystroke. Both switches prioritize a smooth tactile experience, which is essential for users who value fluidity in their typing. However, the Macchiato may have a slight edge in delivering that luxurious feeling, potentially making it more appealing to enthusiasts who seek a premium typing experience.
When considering both switches, the Keygeek Briny and HMX Macchiato linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to various user preferences. The Briny excels in providing a balanced sound profile and a smooth feel, making it versatile for different typing contexts. Meanwhile, the Macchiato stands out with its bright sound and silky smooth interaction, appealing to those looking for a joyful auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches promise satisfying results in their respective strengths, so your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound tones or the tactile smoothness in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, you should consider both your personal typing preference and the overall experience you wish to achieve. If you prefer a medium-bottom-out force and a balanced sound profile that isn't too harsh, the Briny would be an excellent choice for you. Its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing contribute to a robust yet pleasant typing experience that many users find enjoyable, especially if you like a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch, with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the Macchiato may be more appealing. It’s designed for a silky smooth typing feel and delivers a bright sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a fast and effortless keystroke experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how much you value sound and feel—as well as which switch aligns more closely with your typing style, whether that be the balanced engagement of the Briny or the smoothness of the Macchiato.
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