TTC Ice vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and HMX Macchiato stand out as exceptional linear options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The TTC Ice switches are famed for their stunning crystal-clear transparent design, delivering a smooth, responsive feel along with a satisfying bottom-out sound that enhances both gaming and everyday typing experiences. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, emphasizes a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile, making it appealing to those who favor auditory feedback alongside tactile comfort. While both switches offer unique characteristics that can elevate your typing or gaming sessions, the choice between them ultimately hinges on personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and HMX Macchiato switches demonstrate a notable contrast in their housing materials, which significantly impacts the acoustic characteristics and overall experience they provide. The TTC Ice utilizes polycarbonate in both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its rigid properties that result in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This trait contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, especially appealing to users who prefer pronounced keystrokes. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, making the Ice an aesthetically pleasing choice for those who value visual customization alongside performance.
Conversely, the HMX Macchiato switches feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which leads to a different acoustic signature. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, absorbing more sound and yielding a rounder auditory experience. This makes the Macchiato more suitable for users who prefer a muted and subtle feedback during typing. The softer nature of nylon also influences the tactile experience, providing a cushioned feel that contrasts with the more pronounced and crisp feedback of the TTC Ice.
When considering the interaction of these materials with the switch operation, it's important to note that the differing properties of the housings will influence the sound and feel upon key actuation. In both switches, the bottom housing plays a more prominent role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily affects the release sound. Therefore, if the TTC Ice and HMX Macchiato were to feature the same housing materials, one could expect similar results in terms of feedback and sound, allowing users to make personalized choices based on their preferences for either clear and resonant sounds or deeper, fuller acoustic experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force can be observed. The Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Macchiato switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Ice switch requires a stronger push to actuate and bottom out compared to the Macchiato, which may appeal to users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Consequently, those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions may gravitate towards the Macchiato due to its lower force requirements. Overall, if you're seeking a more substantial feel, the heavier weights of the Ice switch will provide that, while the lighter Macchiato switch caters to those who favor ease and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there's a notable difference. The TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Macchiato has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Ice switch provides a shorter travel distance, appealing to those who favor quicker key presses and responsiveness—usually preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Macchiato’s longer travel distance may cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feel, offering a satisfying depth during each keystroke. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 Ice linear switch is attributed with a satisfying bottom-out sound, which contributes to a pleasurable auditory experience during typing or gaming. While the specifics of its sound profile, such as any resonance or pitch, are not elaborated upon, it generally leans towards a balanced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is noted for its bright sound profile, suggesting a more pronounced and possibly sharper auditory feedback. Both switches will exhibit sound variations depending on the keyboard build and keycap material used, but you can expect the Ice to provide a pleasant thud while the Macchiato may offer a crisper sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is characterized by a smooth and responsive typing experience, making it suitable for users who appreciate a seamless keypress without any tactile bumps. This smoothness is essential for those who often engage in fast-paced gaming or require precision in their typing. Similarly, the HMX Macchiato is described as offering a silky smooth typing experience, which indicates that it too shares this emphasis on fluidity during use. Both switches are designed with a focus on providing a linear feel, ensuring that users will experience a comfortable and uninterrupted keypress whether they're at work or play.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and HMX Macchiato linear switches present a high-quality typing experience with notable differences in sound profile while maintaining similar smoothness in feel. The Ice is defined by its satisfying bottom-out sound, contrasting with the Macchiato's brighter acoustic signature. However, both switches excel in providing a seamless and pleasant typing experience, making them excellent choices depending on your preference for sound characteristics. Whether you favor the Ice’s satisfying thud or the Macchiato’s crisper tones, each switch promises to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience, ensuring that you’ll enjoy a premium feel in both cases.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenario. If you prefer a premium typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Ice switch, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, may be perfect for you. It's well-suited for both gaming and everyday tasks, offering a smooth and responsive feel along with a satisfying sound profile that you might find more engaging. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter touch and appreciate a silky smooth keystroke, the HMX Macchiato’s lighter 50-gram bottom-out force could be your go-to. This switch is crafted for those who enjoy a softer feel and a bright sound profile, making it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is key. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what you value more in your typing experience—whether that's the sturdiness and premium quality of the Ice or the light, effortless action of the Macchiato.
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