Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Macchiato stand out as impressive options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is renowned for its budget-friendly appeal, offering users a delightful auditory experience with its poppy, clacky sound while maintaining a smooth and creamy tactile feel. This switch is categorized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, making it an excellent choice for those who want an engaging typing sensation without breaking the bank. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, emphasizes silkiness and a bright sound profile, catering to typists who prefer a smoother experience. While both switches are linear in nature, catering to those who enjoy uninterrupted keystrokes, they offer distinct auditory and tactile characteristics that may influence your choice. 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
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the HMX Macchiato showcase distinct approaches to housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency also makes it optimal for RGB lighting, as the brightness can shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Macchiato employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This fundamental difference in materials distinctly shapes the auditory experience provided by each switch.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent auditory characteristic. Nylon's inherent softness allows it to dampen sound and create a rounder sound profile, which is particularly beneficial when considering the bottom-out sound of each key press. For users, this means that while the top housing varies in terms of material—and thus sound characteristics—the bottom housing in both switches harmonizes the auditory output by providing that fuller depth common to nylon. As a result, both options achieve a balanced sound experience, but their delivery varies depending on the upper housing material.
The combination of the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 and nylon in the Macchiato presents a fascinating experiment in contrasting sound profiles. The V3's higher-pitched sound may appeal to those preferring a snappier tactile response, while the Macchiato leans towards a warmer, more rounded auditory sensation. This influence is markedly evident when typing, as the differences in top housing materials become apparent on the release of each key, while the soft nylon in the bottom housing ensures both switches still produce a consistently satisfying sound on bottom-outs. Ultimately, whether a user chooses the clearer tone of the polycarbonate or the warmer resonance of nylon, they can expect a uniquely personalized typing experience that still retains elements of familiarity.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and bottoms out at 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In comparison, the HMX Macchiato boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a preferable option for those seeking a more effortless typing experience. This difference means that the Macchiato will likely be more comfortable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Cream Yellow Pro may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel that comes with a heavier switch. Overall, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option, the HMX Macchiato provides a lighter and more accessible alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Macchiato measures 4.0 mm. This means that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking a more responsive feel, as shorter distances can lead to faster key presses. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato's 4.0 mm travel distance provides a depth that some users prefer for a more robust typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference; if you value quick response times, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the better option, while the HMX Macchiato caters to those who appreciate a little more travel and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer a distinctively poppy and clacky auditory experience, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy a lively sound while typing. This engaging sound profile can be particularly satisfying and adds a dynamic character to your keyboard usage. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato switches provide a bright sound that is also appealing, though specific details about its exact tonal quality remain unspecified. Both switches’ acoustics will ultimately depend on the accompanying keyboard plate and the keycaps used, so sound consistency can be achieved across different setups.
In the realm of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches excel with descriptors such as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This combination means that they require minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue and providing an enjoyable typing experience that is both responsive and lively. The smoothness of these switches enhances the overall typing comfort, making them ideal for those lengthy writing sessions or intense gaming marathons. As for the HMX Macchiato, while its specific feel characteristics are not detailed, it is implied that the switch also aims for a smooth typing experience, catering to those who prioritize a refined tactile feedback.
Considering all the available information, both switches provide unique advantages tailored to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro shines with its energetic sound and a richly textured typing experience, making it a robust choice for budget-conscious users who seek a lively auditory and tactile experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Macchiato promises a silky smooth typing sensation along with a bright sound profile, although details on its distinct feel weren't available. Ultimately, both options cater to users looking for a satisfying typing experience, allowing for personalization based on sound and feel that can greatly enhance overall keyboard enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the kind of experience you prioritize. If you enjoy a slightly heavier switch that provides a more pronounced tactile feedback combined with a vibrant auditory experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for you. Its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, coupled with its poppy sound profile, makes it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a lively typing atmosphere, particularly during gaming or spirited typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and exceptionally smooth typing experience, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is the way to go, offering a gentle 50 grams of bottom out force which makes it easy on your fingers during prolonged use. Celebrated for its silky-smooth feel and bright sound profile, the Macchiato caters beautifully to users looking for a more effortless typing experience, making it particularly suited for those who need to type for extended periods, whether for work or study. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you seek a more engaging and tactile experience or a softer, more fluid one.
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