Gateron Glory Red vs. HMX Macchiato

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options like the Gateron Glory Red and the HMX Macchiato, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Glory Red switches are celebrated for their light actuation force, offering a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that many users find enhances their overall typing experience. These switches tend to be ideal for those who prefer a more delicate touch while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is known for its silky smoothness and bright sound profile, making it appealing to users who enjoy an auditory element in their typing without the tactile feedback typical of other switch types. Each switch has unique merits that cater to different preferences, whether it's the effortless glide of the Glory Red or the engaging sound of the Macchiato. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

HMX Macchiato Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Glory Red and HMX Macchiato switches are both constructed with nylon top and bottom housings, which fundamentally links their performance characteristics. Both switches utilize nylon, a renowned choice for switch housings due to its durability and sound-absorbing properties. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a rounder and more pleasant auditory experience during typing. With both switches using the same material throughout, users can expect a similar acoustic response—one that dampens sharp noises and provides a smooth tactile experience.

Despite sharing nylon as their housing material, the key to understanding how they might differ lies in the specific design and engineering of each switch beyond the housing. While both the Glory Red and Macchiato switches share the same dampening qualities of nylon that affect the sound when keys are pressed and released, the nuances in their internal mechanisms—such as spring tension or different actuation points—can lead to different tactile sensations or bottom-out feels when striking the keys. Therefore, even with identical housing materials, the overall typing experience can still vary depending on these internal components.

In examining the implications of these materials, it becomes clear that both switches will resonate similarly under the conditions of their nylon housing. Users can anticipate that the typing experience will be characterized by similar sound profiles, with a general emphasis on softer, more muted keystrokes. This commonality suggests that if you're looking for an auditory experience that minimizes harshness while maximizing comfort, both the Gateron Glory Red and HMX Macchiato switches will deliver comparable results owing to their consistent use of nylon, despite any slight variations in feel or responsiveness stemming from other factors within the switches themselves.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Glory Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Macchiato's actuation force of 42 grams, making the Macchiato the lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the Macchiato features a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Glory Red's bottom out force is unknown. Since the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unavailable, we cannot draw a direct comparison. However, if we assume the bottom out force were comparable to other switches in its category, it might suggest a heavier overall feel. Users seeking a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions would likely prefer the HMX Macchiato, whereas those who enjoy a firmer push might lean towards the Gateron Glory Red, provided its bottom out force aligns with similar models.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Macchiato offers a more traditional depth that some users may find preferable for a fuller tactile experience, particularly for typing or gaming scenarios where deeper keystrokes are enjoyable. Conversely, the Glory Red’s shorter travel distance caters to gamers seeking faster response times, allowing for quicker key presses and potentially enhancing performance in fast-paced gaming situations. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness and prefer a quicker action, the Gateron Glory Red would be the better choice, while the HMX Macchiato is ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial feel in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch provides a pleasantly muted yet satisfying auditory experience typical of smooth linear switches. Its sound profile is more restrained, which can appeal to those who prefer a quiet typing environment. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato switch is designed to offer a brighter sound profile, adding a more resonant quality to each keystroke. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced by either switch can greatly vary depending on the type of keyboard used and the keycaps chosen, meaning that personal customization can play a significant role in the final auditory outcome.

Regarding feel, the Glory Red switch is recognized for its smooth keystroke and comfortable travel distance, which together contribute to an enjoyable typing experience without any tactile bumps or resistance. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato is also engineered for a silky smooth operation, ensuring that users experience a seamless motion while typing. Both switches focus on providing a linear feel, making them well-suited for typists who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile feedback found in other switch types.

In summary, both the Gateron Glory Red and HMX Macchiato linear switches cater to enthusiasts who appreciate smooth keystrokes, albeit with different sound profiles—one being more subdued and the other brighter. While the feel is equally emphasized in both switches, providing a seamless typing experience, their distinct sound characteristics can influence your decision based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, either switch can deliver a high-quality typing experience, but your specific needs regarding sound and customizability may guide your choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between Gateron Glory Red and HMX Macchiato linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and desired experience. If you favor an exceptionally light keystroke that prioritizes speed and a satisfying smoothness, the Glory Red is the ideal option. Its design focuses on delivering a fluid typing experience, making it perfect for fast typists or gamers who require rapid input without the distraction of added resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more substantial feel with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the HMX Macchiato might cater better to your needs. Its emphasis on both smoothness and a bright sound profile offers a unique auditory experience alongside its tactile response, providing a more balanced typing sensation that some users may find preferable for extended typing sessions or productivity tasks. In the end, consider whether you desire the lightweight, rapid response of the Glory Red or the more balanced, well-rounded experience offered by the Macchiato to find your perfect match in mechanical keyboard switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more