TTC Gold Red vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the HMX Macchiato both stand out as excellent options for enthusiasts seeking a linear feel, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The TTC Gold Red is celebrated for its buttery smooth typing experience paired with a light-medium level of resistance, making it suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its snappy sound profile offers a modest personality to the keyboard, striking a balance between subtlety and character, while being categorized as thocky, low-pitched, and polished. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, also provides a silky smooth experience but is distinguished by its bright sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a more vibrant acoustic feedback. While both switches excel in providing a linear feel, your choice may come down to whether you prioritize a more muted and refined sound with the Gold Red or a lively auditory experience with the Macchiato. 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
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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 TTC Gold Red and the HMX Macchiato switches, one notable distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for greater resonance, making the overall auditory experience more distinct. In contrast, the Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper, fuller, and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon inherently absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound that is less resonant, giving the typing experience a warmer characteristic. Thus, while both materials serve the essential role of encasing the switch, the auditory outcomes differ significantly, influencing both the sound and feel of the typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Gold Red and Macchiato switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material—nylon. This material is heralded for its capability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. Since both switches leverage the acoustic properties of nylon in their bottom housings, the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent between the two models. Regardless of the differences in the top housing, the nylon bottom helps unify the overall experience in terms of depth and resonance, creating a solid foundation for both switches in their performance.
In the context of sound and tactile feedback during key presses, the differences seen in their top housing materials will noticeably influence the overall experience. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top will make the release of a key feel sharper and clearer, contributing brightness to the sound profile, whereas the Macchiato's nylon top will embrace a more muted release, resulting in a smoother, more rounded experience. Nevertheless, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that, while the top housing may create varying auditory expressions, the depth and fullness imparted by the nylon at the bottom will remain a shared quality, offering a balance of characteristics in both switch models.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the HMX Macchiato linear switch, both exhibit similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating they provide a consistent feel when pressed fully down. In terms of actuation force, the Macchiato is slightly lighter at 42 grams compared to the Gold Red's 43 grams. This marginal difference means that users who prefer a lighter touch might lean towards the Macchiato for less finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions, while those favoring a bit more resistance may find the Gold Red's actuation force more satisfying. Overall, both options are considered light, making them suitable for long hours of use.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on these switches. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches will provide a comparable feel and responsiveness during keyboard use. As a result, users looking for a consistent typing experience would find that either switch can deliver similar results in terms of key engagement and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Red switch offers a thocky and low-pitched auditory profile, characterized by its deep, rich tones that produce a satisfying sound with each keypress. This allows for a mellow yet engaging acoustic experience, making it suitable for both home and workplace environments without being overly attention-grabbing. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is described as having a bright sound profile, although specific details about its sound characteristics were not provided. This indicates that while both switches can provide a pleasant auditory experience, the Gold Red leans towards a more subdued sound profile compared to the potentially sharper and more lively notes of the Macchiato.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch excels in delivering a mildly resistant yet silky typing experience. The characteristics of this switch render it accessible for typists of all skill levels, with a polished finish that minimizes friction and enhances overall smoothness. The subtle resistance ensures that it does not feel overly light, providing a comfortable typing experience without fatigue. Unfortunately, there is no tactile information available for the HMX Macchiato, making it impossible to directly compare its feel to that of the Gold Red. However, if it is similarly designed for a smooth experience, users might expect comparable lightness and fluidity in operation.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red and HMX Macchiato linear switches each cater to distinct preferences. The Gold Red provides a thocky sound and a carefully balanced feel, making it a versatile choice for a variety of users. While the Macchiato offers a bright auditory profile and potentially smooth handling, its specific characteristics remain undisclosed. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a pleasant sound, either option can yield satisfactory results, but the Gold Red offers a clearer picture of its sensory qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, your decision largely hinges on your typing preferences and acoustic needs. If you're looking for a switch that offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light to medium resistance, the Gold Red is a great choice. Its thocky sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback while remaining neutral enough for office use or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you place a high value on a silky smooth feel paired with a bright sound profile, the Macchiato might be more to your liking. Its unique characteristics cater to those who appreciate a touch of vibrancy in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider where and how you'll be using your keyboard: the Gold Red is versatile and understated, ideal for both work and casual gaming, while the Macchiato can enhance your typing experience with its lively sound.
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