TTC Gold Pink vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Macchiato both offer compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience, yet they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Gold Pink is recognized for its exceptionally light actuation force of 37g, providing a fast and effortless typing experience ideal for rapid gaming or intense typing sessions. Its clacky sound adds a lively auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, emphasizes a silky smooth feel with a bright sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more refined and bouncy typing experience. While the Gold Pink is characterized as buttery and polished, making it perfect for those who favor a light and zippy action, the Macchiato stands out with its clacky yet feathery touch that caters to enthusiasts of a more tactile and enjoyable typing session. Ultimately, both switches have their merits based on individual preferences; 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
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Macchiato, key distinctions can be observed, particularly in their top housings. The Gold Pink utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is mainly due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate material, allowing for clearer resonance. In contrast, the Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, the acoustic characteristics of these two switches differ fundamentally, influencing the auditory experience during typing.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a shared acoustic quality in that regard. The nylon bottom housing in both the Gold Pink and the Macchiato creates a duller, rounder sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience by providing a deeper feedback when the key is pressed down. This similarity suggests that while the switches may exhibit different sound characteristics during release due to their differing top housings, they will provide a consistent bottoming-out experience. The impact of the nylon bottom housing is palpable, as it plays a significant role in the overall feel of the switch, giving users a uniformity that might appeal to those seeking a certain type of sound profile.
In essence, the contrasting materials used in the top housing of the Gold Pink and the Macchiato create a unique blend of auditory experiences, while their shared nylon bottom housing helps to unify the sound profile during the keypress. The sharper tones of the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top may suit those who prefer more pronounced auditory feedback, whereas the Macchiato’s nylon top may cater to users who appreciate a more subdued, fuller sound. Ultimately, each switch offers distinct auditory features that complement their respective materials, while the shared nylon bottoms act as a stabilizing factor, ensuring that users experience a satisfactory key-bottoming feel across both designs.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences can be seen in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a softer touch, facilitating longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Macchiato switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a firmer feel. While both switches are classified as light, the Gold Pink is the lighter option and may be better suited for extended use, whereas the Macchiato provides a bit more resistance, appealing to users who favor stronger feedback. Overall, the choice between these switches will largely depend on personal preference regarding force and tactile feel.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that the feel and actuation of the two switches will be quite similar when pressed. Since they share the same travel distance, users can expect a comparable response and tactile experience, allowing for a consistent typing feel across both switches. This equality in travel distance indicates that neither switch is shorter or longer, making them a suitable choice for users seeking a uniform keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switch offers a clacky auditory profile, characterized by its sharp and snappy response when pressed. This creates a lively and engaging typing atmosphere, especially appealing to those who enjoy the acoustic feedback of their keyboard. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato switch is designed to deliver a bright sound profile that, while also crisp, emphasizes a different quality than the Gold Pink. Both switches will produce an enjoyable auditory experience, but the Gold Pink tends toward a sharper sound, whereas the Macchiato may offer a different resonance, contributing to a unique auditory environment tailored to the preference of the user.
In terms of tactile feel, the Gold Pink switch stands out with descriptors like buttery, mild, subtle, and polished. This combination suggests a typing experience that is both effortless and refined, allowing for smooth keystrokes with a gentle level of resistance, making it suitable for extended use without feeling overly taxing on the fingers. The HMX Macchiato, on the other hand, provides a silky smoothness with bouncy characteristics, culminating in a lively and responsive feel. The Macchiato's feathery nature also means it requires minimal effort to actuate, greatly reducing the risk of finger fatigue. While both switches cater to light touch preferences, the Gold Pink leans more towards a controlled and polished experience, while the Macchiato adds a lively and elastic quality to the overall tactile sensation.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink and HMX Macchiato linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences. The Gold Pink excels in its lively, clacky sound and smooth, controlled feel, making it an excellent choice for rapid typing and gaming. Meanwhile, the Macchiato provides a bright auditory experience coupled with an exceptionally smooth and bouncy feel, catering to those who appreciate a more responsive and light touch. Depending on personal preference, users can select either switch for a satisfying typing experience, with both ensuring enjoyable sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, though different in nuance, both switches promise a delightful user experience in their distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Pink and the HMX Macchiato linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a speedy and effortless typing experience, the Gold Pink is an excellent option, especially if you enjoy rapid typing or gaming. With its light actuation force of just 37 grams, you'll find that it eases your finger fatigue during long sessions, while the clacky sound adds a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother, more refined typing experience with a touch of brightness, the Macchiato is an ideal choice. Its slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, combined with its silky feel and bouncy feedback, makes it well-suited for users who enjoy a more dynamic typing sensation. Moreover, if you're working in a shared environment, the Macchiato's sound profile may be more suitable due to its crisp yet polished nature. Ultimately, consider how you type and what you value most in a switch to make the best choice for your setup.
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