TTC Brother vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference often plays a crucial role, especially when comparing options like the TTC Brother and the HMX Macchiato. The TTC Brother is a standout clicky switch celebrated for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, making it an effortless choice for users seeking a tactile and audible typing experience. Its distinctive crunch and measured tactile bump provide clear feedback without overwhelming the user, appealing to those who enjoy the rhythmic click of every keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, offers a completely different experience with its linear switch design, prioritizing smoothness and quiet operation. This switch caters to typists who desire a seamless flow without the distraction of noise, making it an ideal choice for focused work or gaming sessions. While the Brother delivers an engaging auditory experience with its pronounced clicks, the Macchiato promotes a more understated and effortless feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the HMX Macchiato switches offer an interesting contrast that significantly influences their auditory profiles. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic stems from polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. In scenarios where RGB lighting is employed, the translucency of polycarbonate becomes an aesthetic advantage, allowing light to shine through, thereby contributing to a visually captivating experience. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato uses nylon for its top housing, which is a classic material revered for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The inherent softer composition of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output. This distinction emphasizes how the material choice impacts not only sound clarity but also the overall user experience.
Interestingly, both the TTC Brother and HMX Macchiato utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a unity in the sound profiles produced during key presses. Due to nylon's characteristics, both switches share deep and full auditory outcomes as they benefit from the same sound-absorbing properties of the material. In terms of tactile feedback and bottom-out sound, the nylon bottom housings bring a consistency that enhances the overall performance of both switches. In this context, the reliance on nylon creates a compelling similarity in execution, even when the top housings differ in material. Thus, while the top housings yield contrasting auditory impacts, the nylon bottoms anchor both switches to a deeper sound quality, maintaining some continuity in user experience.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials for the TTC Brother and HMX Macchiato switches illustrate how nuanced material choices can produce varied sound profiles in mechanical keyboards. With the polycarbonate top housing of the Brother fostering a sharper sound and the nylon top of the Macchiato delivering a rounded tone, users are presented with distinct options tailored to their auditory preferences. However, the shared incorporation of nylon in both switches' bottom housings effectively bridges the gap between these unique sound characteristics. By understanding these dynamics, enthusiasts can make informed choices about the switches best suited for their typographic style and audio expectations, thereby optimizing their keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and the available bottom out force data. The Brother switch features an actuation force of 37 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be favorable for those who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Macchiato switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams, suggesting a firmer keystroke that may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, while the Macchiato linear switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the information for the Brother switch's bottom out force is unavailable. This lack of data means we cannot directly compare the bottom out forces between the two. However, given the Brother's lighter actuation force, users may find that they can achieve similar results in terms of fatigue during long typing sessions, even if the bottom out experience differs. Overall, those seeking a lighter feel may prefer the TTC Brother switch, while those looking for a heavier tactile experience would lean towards the HMX Macchiato.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch have different travel distances, which affects the typing experience each provides. The Brother switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Macchiato switch features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is longer and more traditional. This difference means that if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Brother switch may be the better choice due to its shorter travel, which can lead to quicker actuation and enhanced performance for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Macchiato's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced keystroke that some users may find satisfying, providing a sense of depth that could appeal to typists who enjoy a more deliberate keypress. Therefore, while both switches serve their purposes well, the preference between them depends on whether one values responsiveness or a more substantial keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized by its distinctly crunchy auditory feedback, akin to the sound of stepping on crispy autumn leaves. This engaging sound profile enhances the typing experience for those who enjoy the auditory cues that accompany each keystroke, adding an element of satisfaction as the switch responds to input. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato linear switch features a bright sound profile, although specific details about its sound characteristics are not provided. Regardless, it's important to remember that the overall auditory experience of any switch can be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard frame and keycaps used.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the Brother excels with its lightweight design and easy-to-press nature, requiring just 37g of force to actuate. This low actuation force translates to comfortable and effortless typing, which is particularly beneficial for extended use, as it minimizes finger fatigue. The tactile feedback is also noteworthy; the Brother features a stepped feel that makes its tactile bump more subtle without losing its distinctive character, ensuring that users can feel the actuation without it being overwhelming. In contrast, the details about the feel of the HMX Macchiato linear switch are not specified; however, linear switches typically provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump, which may appeal to those who prefer uninterrupted motion when typing.
In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch offer very different sensory experiences. The Brother is celebrated for its crunchy sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite for those who enjoy clicky switches, while the Macchiato seems geared towards users seeking a smooth typing experience with an unspecified bright sound. Ultimately, while you’ll find a blend of unique qualities in each, if you prefer tactile and auditory satisfaction, the Brother is a strong choice, whereas the Macchiato appeals to those who favor linear, uninterrupted keystrokes. The choice ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or smooth, linear actuation.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you are someone who revels in the tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction of a clicky switch, the Brother will likely be your go-to choice. Its lightweight actuation and satisfying crunch provide an engaging typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists and gamers who enjoy a lively auditory cue with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience without the distraction of noise, the Macchiato with its linear characteristics and 50-gram bottom-out force may better suit your needs. It offers a serene typing experience that allows for concentrated work or gaming sessions without the clicky interruptions. Ultimately, determining your preference for tactile feedback and sound will guide you in choosing the switch that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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