Bsun Jade Rosales vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Macchiato offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Jade Rosales, developed by XY Studio, is renowned for its meticulously refined design, which includes custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques, resulting in an exceptionally smooth typing experience that enthusiasts often crave. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is tailored for users who not only appreciate a silky smooth feel but also enjoy a bright sound profile that adds an engaging auditory dimension to their typing sessions. Both switches emphasize smoothness, making them ideal choices for users seeking comfort and responsiveness in their keyboards. 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Macchiato present a notable contrast in their composition, which significantly influences their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Jade Rosales features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This characteristic contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting setups as it allows the light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a softer, more muted sound profile. The nylon’s inherent absorbent qualities create a deeper, fuller tone, leading to a more rounded auditory experience while typing. Therefore, while both switches may offer a delightful typing experience, the auditory character is markedly different due to their top housing materials.
Examining the bottom housing, the Bsun Jade Rosales utilizes a proprietary Custom Milky Material, while the HMX Macchiato also opts for nylon. The inclusion of a custom blend for the Jade Rosales may provide unique properties that differentiate its sound and feel characteristics from a standard nylon bottom housing. However, it's essential to recognize that nylon generally contributes to a fuller and rounder sound, which can lead to similar tactile sensations and sound profiles under certain conditions. As the bottom housing is largely responsible for the overall bottom-out noise and feel when pressed, the use of nylon in the Macchiato suggests a similarity in tactile responses, despite the proprietary material used in the Jade Rosales.
In summary, while the Jade Rosales and Macchiato differ significantly in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—their lower housing components share certain similarities that influence the overall typing experience. Users can expect a sharper sound profile from the Jade Rosales due to its polycarbonate top, while the Macchiato’s nylon top provides a more muted experience. However, the impact of the bottom housing materials showcases how the overall character of both switches can yield similarly satisfying auditory and tactile feedback, especially when considering the complementary effects of the materials selected. Thus, even with the variations in housing, both switches can appeal to a range of preferences depending on the user's acoustic and tactile priorities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom-out force of the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there are notable differences. The Jade Rosales features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Macchiato offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light category. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch may find the Macchiato more comfortable for extended use, while those who enjoy a slightly firmer feel might gravitate toward the Jade Rosales. Overall, the Macchiato is the lighter switch, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, whereas the Jade Rosales, while heavier, may cater to those who appreciate a stronger push feel in their typing experience. Despite the differences in force, both switches can deliver satisfying feedback; however, users looking for a similar tactile response should consider their individual weight preferences when making a choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Jade Rosales boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Macchiato has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Jade Rosales is the shorter option, catering to those who prefer quicker response times typical in gaming scenarios, whereas the Macchiato, with its fuller 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial tactile experience for users who appreciate deeper keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may depend on personal preference; if rapid responsiveness is a priority, the Jade Rosales will be the preferred option, while those seeking a more pronounced depth in their key presses may lean towards the Macchiato.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 Jade Rosales switch is known for its discreet and muted acoustics, allowing for a more subtle typing experience that can be ideal for quiet environments. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato offers a bright and lively sound profile, adding an engaging auditory element to typing that many enthusiasts enjoy. It’s important to note that both switches can vary in sound depending on the keyboard they are mounted in and the keycaps used, but you can generally expect a softer sound from the Jade Rosales compared to the crisper tones of the Macchiato.
Regarding feel, the Jade Rosales switch stands out for its extremely smooth typing experience, a result of extensive refinement in design and lubrication techniques. This switch is particularly appealing for users who value a seamless keystroke without any noticeable friction. On the other hand, the Macchiato switch also aims for a silky smooth experience but may provide a different tactile sensation that could appeal to those who prefer a slightly more pronounced feedback during their typing. Although both switches prioritize smoothness, the specific nuances they offer could result in varied preferences among users.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Jade Rosales and HMX Macchiato switches cater to enthusiasts seeking smooth linear sensations, yet they differ in their auditory characteristics. The Jade Rosales is perfect for those prioritizing a quieter, subtler soundscape, while those who enjoy a brighter sound profile might gravitate towards the Macchiato. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference in sound and slight variations in feel, but either switch promises a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the HMX Macchiato linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a moderately weighted switch with a bottom-out force of 53 grams, which offers a solid feel without being too heavy, then the Jade Rosales would be your go-to choice. Its smooth typing experience, thanks to careful refinement, makes it an excellent option for long typing sessions or for users who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a 50-gram bottom-out force, allowing for quicker key presses and a potentially less tiring experience over extended use, the Macchiato may suit you better. Its silky smooth operation paired with a bright sound profile adds a delightful auditory element for those who enjoy a more lively typing experience. Ultimately, consider what qualities are most important to you—whether it's sound, feel, or the weight of the switch—before making your final decision, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
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