TTC Gold Red Pro vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Macchiato both present compelling options for users who prefer linear switches, yet each offers unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience that appeals to a broad audience. Its neutral sound signature means it strikes a balance, making it suitable for various environments—from gaming and office work to casual typing sessions. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato stands out with its silky smooth actuation and bright sound profile, catering to enthusiasts who prioritize a satisfying auditory experience alongside pleasant tactile feedback. Both switches have their strengths, with the Gold Red Pro leaning towards adaptability and the Macchiato emphasizing auditory engagement. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Macchiato, a distinct difference arises in their top housing composition. The Gold Red Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This clarity makes it particularly favorable for those desiring a more pronounced auditory experience, especially when RGB lighting is employed due to the translucency of the polycarbonate that allows light to shine through beautifully. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper, fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature. This material absorbs more sound and contributes to a rounder auditory experience, thereby creating a different tactile and auditory engagement when typing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gold Red Pro and the Macchiato utilize nylon, which leads to a similar effect on the overall typing experience. Since both keyboards have nylon as their bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent deep and full sound profile evident in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the keys. The properties of nylon play a crucial role in how each switch feels during action, enhancing the cushion and responsiveness irrespective of the differing top housing materials. Consequently, even if the tactile sensation differs somewhat due to their upper housing materials, the bottoms provide a shared, softer feedback.
The divergent top housing materials encapsulate the duality of typing sound profiles one may desire from mechanical switches. While the Gold Red Pro leans towards a sharper, more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Macchiato fosters a more muted and satisfying auditory experience through its nylon counterpart. Despite these differences at the top, the shared utilization of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both models achieve a rich, rounded acoustic depth upon keystroke, allowing users to enjoy respective benefits of each switch's design while still gaining similar results in terms of overall sound quality from the bottom. Thus, the distinct materials used in the top housing play a crucial role in personal preference, emphasizing the importance of considering both aspects when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Macchiato offers a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams, indicating that the Macchiato may provide a marginally easier typing experience. However, the Gold Red Pro lacks a defined bottom out force, making it difficult to assess its overall feedback in comparison. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which suggests a firmer resistance when bottoming out, potentially appealing to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feel in their key presses. Overall, the Macchiato is the lighter option when considering actuation force, but it also offers that heavier bottom out force compared to the unknown value of the Gold Red Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we find that the Gold Red Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Macchiato has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gold Red Pro offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its quicker actuation. In contrast, the Macchiato, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, could cater to those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience when pressing keys. Overall, if you prefer a snappier key press, the Gold Red Pro would be the better choice, while the Macchiato may be more suitable for users who enjoy the feel of deeper key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch features a neutral sound profile that is described as low-pitched and thocky, producing a satisfying and rich auditory feedback while typing. This makes it ideal for various environments, ensuring it won’t be intrusive in quiet spaces while still providing a gentle sound that is enjoyable for both casual and serious typists. It strikes a balance that allows users to engage comfortably whether they are in an office, gaming, or simply enjoying casual typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato is designed with a bright sound profile, although specific descriptors have not been provided. This distinction suggests that while the Gold Red Pro maintains a more subdued auditory experience, the Macchiato could potentially offer a more pronounced and vivid sound, although the absence of detailed descriptors might leave its exact sound characteristics less defined.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro stands out with its polished and silky characteristics, contributing to a remarkably smooth and refined typing experience. Described as mild and subtle, it provides a gentle resistance that encourages prolonged typing sessions without discomfort. This makes it accessible to users at all experience levels, enhancing the overall ergonomics while keeping the tactile feedback pleasant. In contrast, the specifics regarding the feel of the HMX Macchiato switch are unknown, rendering any direct comparisons speculative. Without more information, it becomes difficult to assess how the tactile experience of the Macchiato aligns or deviates from the smoothness offered by the Gold Red Pro.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Macchiato linear switches cater to distinct preferences for sound and feel within the mechanical keyboard community. The Gold Red Pro’s versatility in sound and exceptional smoothness in feel make it a well-rounded choice for a variety of users, while the Macchiato's bright sound could appeal to those seeking a more pronounced auditory experience. However, the lack of detailed descriptors for the Macchiato in terms of its sound and feel leaves a gap in direct comparisons, making the Gold Red Pro a more defined option for typists looking for excellence in both realms. Depending on one’s personal preference and typing style, either can serve well, but the knowledge of characteristics provided places the Gold Red Pro firmly as an adaptable and comprehensive choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the HMX Macchiato linear switches cater to different preferences and use cases, making your choice ultimately dependent on your typing style and environment. If you value versatility and a seamless typing experience, the Gold Red Pro is an excellent option. It’s especially suited for various settings, whether you're gaming, working in an office, or enjoying leisurely typing sessions, thanks to its neutral sound profile and polished feel that promotes smooth key travel without causing auditory disturbances. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience paired with a brighter sound, the HMX Macchiato may be your go-to. While it requires a light actuation force of 50 grams, which makes it feel responsive, it may be the ideal switch for those who revel in a tactile and engaging feedback. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize adaptability and quiet operation with the Gold Red Pro or seek a uniquely engaging auditory experience with the Macchiato, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup to your personal preferences.
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