Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Macchiato stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light 45g actuation force, which not only makes it highly responsive but also contributes to its distinctive bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound when typing. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, leans towards users seeking a silky smooth typing experience, while still delivering a lively and bright auditory feedback. With its clacky, silky, bouncy, and feathery attributes, the Macchiato provides an enjoyable tactile sensation without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, whether you gravitate toward the Chiikawa's lightweight responsiveness or the Macchiato's smoothness and pleasant sound, each switch has its unique appeal. However, 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
51g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Macchiato, a distinct contrast arises between the top housings. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic is particularly noticeable when using RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual impact of the lights. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato employs a nylon top housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material composition, which tends to absorb more sound energy, resulting in a considerably more muted tone. Thus, while the Chiikawa may produce a brighter and crisper sound when typing, the Macchiato offers a more subdued auditory experience.
Both the Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Macchiato utilize nylon for their bottom housings, establishing a commonality that influences their sound profiles. In both cases, nylon's inherent properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing the keys down. Since nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, the bottom-out experience for both switches will feel consistently rounded and smooth. This shared material choice means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, users can expect a comforting, saturated sound when they bottom out on either switch.
Ultimately, the combination of distinct top housing materials with a shared bottom housing of nylon results in unique yet harmonious experiences with both the Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Macchiato. The Chiikawa's crisp upper sound profile made possible by polycarbonate contrasts elegantly with the Macchiato's rich tone; however, the bottom housings work in unison to provide a similar foundational experience. This means that, despite the different auditory qualities at the top, both switches can deliver satisfying performance, particularly in the tactile feedback during key presses, showcasing how material selection can be leveraged for a diverse yet complementary range of keyboard experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, making it medium-light, while the Macchiato switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. This means that the Chiikawa switch requires a stronger push to actuate, providing a more substantial typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a heavier feel. Conversely, the Macchiato's lighter actuation force might offer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended periods of use. In summary, the Chiikawa switch is the heavier option, while the Macchiato is the lighter choice, catering to differing user preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa - 45g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Macchiato offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Macchiato provides a more pronounced depth with its longer travel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Chiikawa's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking quicker responsiveness, making it ideal for gamers who value fast input times. Thus, if one prioritizes speed and sharp feedback, the Chiikawa would be the preferable choice; conversely, if one favors a deeper feel with more pronounced key presses, the Macchiato would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g 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
When it comes to sound, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Macchiato switches share a bright sound profile, making them enjoyable options for enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing experience. The Chiikawa - 45g produces a crisp, high-pitched sound that is notably responsive, enhancing the tactile pleasure of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Macchiato is characterized by a clacky, sharp, and snappy sound that delivers a distinct and percussive auditory response. While both switches offer a vibrant soundscape, the Macchiato leans more toward a lively clackiness, which may offer a different acoustic sensation than the lighter, more subtle tone of the Chiikawa.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches are more pronounced. The Chiikawa - 45g is known for its incredibly light actuation force, making it very responsive, but specific descriptions of its tactile sensation are absent. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato is praised for its silky smoothness, creating a typing experience that is exceptionally fluid. Additionally, the Macchiato provides a bouncy feedback, giving each key a lively rebound that can make typing feel energizing. Its feathery touch allows for minimal exertion from the fingers, which is particularly beneficial for extended usage, reducing fatigue. These qualities may cater to different preferences; those who enjoy low resistance might lean toward the Chiikawa, whereas those seeking a more dynamic feel will likely gravitate toward the Macchiato.
In summary, while both switches offer a bright sound profile that can complement a variety of setups, their tactile experiences diverge significantly. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g emphasizes a very light touch with a crisp sound, ideal for those favoring soft and quick keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato stands out with its silky texture, bouncy response, and notable auditory feedback, making it a great choice for users who appreciate a richer tactile and acoustic interaction. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a light yet responsive switch or a more dynamic and smooth experience while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and intended use. If you prefer a medium-light actuation with a bright, crisp sound profile that provides an exceptionally responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent option. It's particularly suited for typing when you enjoy a snappier feedback and don't mind a slightly heavier bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you are seeking a lighter touch as well as a silky smooth and bouncy typing sensation, the HMX Macchiato will likely be more to your liking. Its light actuation force and clacky auditory response offer a delightful combination for those who value ease of movement and minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions, whether for gaming, writing, or working. Therefore, assess what aspects are most important to you—be it sound, feel, or the effort required in your keystrokes—as this will guide you in selecting the switch that best fits your typing style and comfort.
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