Keygeek Keylin vs. HMX Macchiato

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Macchiato stand out as compelling choices for enthusiasts seeking linear switches. The Keylin, renowned for its innovative molds, offers a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it a great option for those who value both tactile feedback and sound. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, caters to users who appreciate a silky smooth feel with a bright sound profile, providing a distinct auditory experience while typing. While both switches feature linear mechanics that promote a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, their unique acoustic properties and design philosophies set them apart. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Keylin Linear

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Macchiato both utilize nylon as their primary housing material, which is notable for its acoustic properties and the tactile experience it provides. Both switches benefit from the inherent qualities of nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon effectively absorbs sound waves, leading to a duller and rounder auditory feedback compared to harder plastics. This acoustic similarity suggests that users of either switch may experience a similar sound landscape, enhancing the enjoyment for those who appreciate a rich auditory experience during typing.

In terms of construction, both the Keylin and Macchiato feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings, ensuring a unified performance characteristic across the entire switch. This consistency means that the benefits of nylon's sound absorption and tactile feedback are uniformly realized between the keypress and key release phases. When pressing down on the switch, the softer nylon allows for a smooth bottom-out feel, while the release action is softened as well, resulting in a cohesive typing experience that emphasizes comfort and auditory satisfaction. Therefore, users can expect similar results in both switches, regardless of the specific model they choose.

However, should there have been differences in the top and bottom housing materials, the unique qualities that each material contributes would subsequently affect the overall experience. The bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing significantly impacts the release sound and post-press feel. In both the Keylin and Macchiato, the uniform choice of nylon across all housing components means that discrepancies in sound profile and tactile feedback are minimized, ensuring that users enjoy a consistent performance without the potential complications arising from the combination of varying materials. Thus, the design choices in both switches collectively enhance the typing experience by delivering a symbiotic relationship between materials and sound.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, both exhibit a relatively light feel, appealing to users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Keylin features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it the lighter option among the two. In contrast, the Macchiato has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a marginally heftier typing experience. While both switches are on the lighter side, those who prioritize a more substantial feel may lean towards the Macchiato for its increased resistance. However, for users who favor prolonged typing sessions or gaming, the lighter Keylin could be more comfortable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces reduce finger fatigue over time. Ultimately, while both switches provide a light tactile experience, the Keylin stands out as the lighter choice, making it ideal for extended use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, it is clear that the two differ in their specifications. The Keylin features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Macchiato has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Keylin may provide a more responsive experience, appealing to gamers who favor quicker actuation. In contrast, the Macchiato’s 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, which some users may prefer for its satisfying depth when typing. Therefore, if one prioritizes rapid response times, the Keylin is the better option, whereas those who enjoy a deeper keystroke should opt for the Macchiato.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for its rich acoustics, which can enhance the overall auditory experience during typing. This rich sound profile may make the Keylin particularly appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback from their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is designed to provide a bright sound profile, which offers clarity and a crisp auditory experience. Both switches underline that sound can also be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap combinations you choose, leading to potentially similar results in user experience depending on those choices.

When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch delivers exceptional smoothness, allowing for seamless keystrokes that can greatly improve typing efficiency and comfort. This smooth action is ideal for users who prioritize a refined typing experience. Similarly, the HMX Macchiato emphasizes a silky smooth typing experience, making both options well-suited for those who enjoy a lightweight and fluid keystroke. This shared quality ensures that users of either switch will experience a comfortable and enjoyable feel while typing, regardless of which option they choose.

In summary, both the Keygeek Keylin and HMX Macchiato linear switches cater to enthusiasts looking for premium typing experiences, each with its unique sound and feel attributes. The Keylin offers rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, while the Macchiato brings a bright sound profile along with its own silky smooth texture. Both switches promise to deliver a satisfying experience, making them strong contenders for anyone looking to invest in high-quality mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, your preference between the two may come down to personal taste in sound profile and brand appeal, though both will likely yield a rewarding typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your decision between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch ultimately revolves around your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a light switch that offers a smooth, premium typing experience with rich acoustics, the Keylin may be your best choice. It excels in delivering an enjoyable tactile response coupled with its unique sound characteristics. On the other hand, if you are someone who appreciates a slightly firmer feel along with an exceptionally silky typing experience and a bright auditory feedback, the Macchiato would likely suit you better. Both switches offer a reassuringly light bottom-out force, but the nuances in their sound design and tactile feel will significantly impact your overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard. Therefore, consider how these qualities align with your typing style and preferences to choose the switch that will enhance your keyboard experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more