Huano Elf vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and the HMX Macchiato offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Elf switch is celebrated for its POK top housing, which not only enhances acoustics but also delivers a deep sound signature paired with a medium-light actuation force, resulting in a satisfying typing experience that can appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is designed for those who prioritize a silky smooth typing experience combined with a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users seeking fluidity and clarity in their keystrokes. While both switches provide a linear feel, the choice between them often boils down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback. 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
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POK
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
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the HMX Macchiato, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The Elf features a POK (polyketone) material which, due to its exceptional durability and low coefficient of friction, is designed for smooth operation and resilience. With a wear resistance fourteen times greater than POM and superior shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM, POK contributes to a nuanced sound profile characterized by its clacky feedback during keystrokes. In contrast, the Macchiato utilizes a classic nylon for its top housing, which is softer and more sound-absorbent. This difference in material composition results in a less pronounced sound, producing a deeper, fuller tone when typing. While both switches deliver a satisfying experience, their auditory characteristics differ significantly due to the choice of top housing materials.
On the other hand, both the Huano Elf and HMX Macchiato feature nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material provides consistency in sound absorption and tactile feedback among the two switches. Nylon's inherent softness means that both switches will promote a rounder, more muted sound when the keys bottom out. Users will experience a more harmonious resonance from both switches as they press down keys, leading to a similar auditory satisfaction. The shared nylon bottom makes the experience of typing feel familiar across the two switches, emphasizing comfort and sound profile consistency, despite the differences in the top housings.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combined impact of the different materials used in the top and bottom housings becomes evident. For the Huano Elf, the POK top housing enhances the switch's smoothness and provides a unique clacky sound during release, which contrasts with the deeper tones produced by the nylon bottom. Meanwhile, the HMX Macchiato achieves a comparatively softer and rounder auditory signature due to having nylon in both the top and bottom houses, leading to a seamless and richer typing experience. Ultimately, while the switches achieve similar results in sound and feel thanks to their nylon bottoms, the differences in their top housings drastically influence the qualities perceived during the typing experience, catering to different preferences.
Weight
The Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch share the same actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally responsive to key presses. This similarity allows users to expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how much force is required to activate a keystroke. However, the key difference lies in their bottom out forces; while the Macchiato has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Elf's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Macchiato provides a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down, resulting in a more substantial typing experience, which some users might prefer for its tactile feedback. Consequently, the Macchiato is the heavier switch, making it potentially less suitable for long typing sessions for those who favor lighter options. In contrast, the Elf may appeal to users looking for a lighter switch, although the absence of its bottom out force makes it challenging to fully compare the overall force experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying user preferences. The Huano Elf features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Elf the shorter option, appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times and more immediate feedback from their keystrokes. Conversely, the Macchiato, with its longer distance, may provide a more satisfying depth that some users prefer, avoiding the abruptness that can come with shorter travel distances. Ultimately, while both switches serve their purpose, the choice between them hinges on whether one values rapid actuation or a more pronounced keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf 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, the Huano Elf switch is known for its deep sound signature, likely enhanced by its POK top housing, which contributes to its acoustics. This results in a rich auditory experience that suits those who appreciate a more profound, resonant typing sound. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato offers a bright sound profile, designed to provide a clearer, crisper auditory feedback. While both switches deliver satisfying auditory experiences, the Elf leans towards a fuller tone, whereas the Macchiato tends to be more piercing and light.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch is characterized by a medium-light actuation force, making it feel pleasantly responsive yet not too taxing during extensive typing sessions. This balance allows for a satisfying yet somewhat effortless experience. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato switch is described as offering a silky smooth typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a fluid keystroke without any scratchiness or resistance. While the Elf provides a tactile sensation that is still enjoyable, the Macchiato focuses more on an uninterrupted glide as you type.
In conclusion, both the Huano Elf and HMX Macchiato linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Elf presents a deep, resonant sound alongside a medium-light feel, ideal for those who enjoy a richer typing experience. Meanwhile, the Macchiato captivates with its bright sound profile and silky smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who desire a seamless typing motion. Ultimately, while their characteristics differ, both switches promise satisfying performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, allowing you to find the right fit based on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, consider your personal typing preferences and the sound profile you desire. If you prioritize an acoustic experience and enjoy a medium-light feel while typing, the Elf switch may be your best bet, as it provides a satisfying deep sound signature perfect for creating a comfortable and enjoyable typing environment. On the other hand, if you seek a silky smooth experience with a bright sound profile, the Macchiato switch should be your choice. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue, appealing particularly to those who type quickly or repetitively. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles: choose the Huano Elf for a richer acoustic experience and a comforting feel, or opt for the Macchiato if you want exceptional smoothness and crisp sound while working or gaming.
Mentioned in this article
