KTT Laurel vs. HMX Macchiato

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Laurel and the HMX Macchiato offer distinct experiences despite both falling into the category of linear switches. The KTT Laurel is celebrated for its optimal blend of responsiveness and comfort, featuring a medium-light actuation force that makes typing effortless. Its full POM housing and long pole design contribute to a low-pitched, subtly snappy sound profile, ideal for those who value a more muted auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, is crafted for users who seek a silky smooth experience paired with a bright sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response. While the Laurel caters to users looking for a balanced, comfortable feel, the Macchiato appeals to those who prioritize smoothness and a lively soundscape. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Laurel Linear

HMX Macchiato Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Laurel and the HMX Macchiato switches both utilize distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Laurel features POM for both its top and bottom housings, which produces a sound that is markedly deeper and more muted. This characteristic is attributed to POM's hard and dense composition, which generates a pleasant yet less resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Macchiato employs nylon for its housings, which is a softer plastic known for its ability to absorb sound. This quality creates a more pronounced and fuller sound while typing, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience.

While the switch materials differ, both the POM and nylon are engineered to enhance the overall acoustic experience of each switch. The Macchiato's nylon housing dampens sound more effectively due to its softer texture, which can result in slightly more depth in terms of sound. Meanwhile, the Laurel’s all-POM design maintains its own unique acoustic charm, producing a sound that is equally satisfying yet distinctively muted. When using these switches, the unique properties of the materials interact with the user's keystrokes, with the different effects resonating in distinct manners based on the composition of the housing.

Despite these differences, both switches achieve a similar end goal: delivering a pleasing and effective typing experience. The qualities of the respective housing materials distribute sound characteristics between the top and bottom sections of each switch. For example, while the bottom housing of the Laurel contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound released when a key is released. Conversely, the Macchiato showcases how nylon housing can also enhance the auditory experience, as it embraces the qualities that both materials impart during key presses. Ultimately, while the switches differ in material composition, they both promise a gratifying typing experience by leveraging their unique acoustic attributes.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Laurel and HMX Macchiato linear switches, both exhibit similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the HMX Macchiato is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams, though it shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means both switches experience the same resistance when pressing all the way down, making their bottoming out experience identical. However, since the Macchiato's actuation force is lower, it provides a marginally easier keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Conversely, the heavier actuation force of the Laurel offers a bit more resistance, which might attract those seeking a more substantial tactile feedback. Overall, both switches are light, but the Macchiato edges out with its slightly lower actuation force.

Travel distance

The KTT Laurel linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Laurel the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive feel, as shorter travel distances can facilitate quicker key presses—an aspect often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Macchiato, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper key press that some users might find more satisfying, offering a more substantial tactile experience. If you're someone who appreciates a hearty depth in your key presses, the HMX Macchiato would be the preferable choice, whereas the KTT Laurel could be ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which results in a mellower and bass-heavy tone that is generally considered pleasant for typing without being overly distracting. Its sound characteristics provide a smooth auditory experience, making it a good option for users who prefer a quieter typing session. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato is known for its bright sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback when pressing the keys. This brightness can often create an invigorating typing atmosphere, suitable for environments where clear key presses are appreciated. However, it's important to remember that the final sound experience can also be influenced by the keyboard plate, case design, and keycap materials chosen, which means that users may have some control over the final auditory outcome.

In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel is characterized by its snappy response, often attributed to its design features such as the longer poles and dual-staged springs, making each keystroke feel dynamic and lively. This responsiveness enhances the typing experience, providing users with a tactile satisfaction that complements its linear characteristics. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato switch is designed for a silky smooth experience, aiming to deliver a fluid keystroke without any roughness or interruption. While the Laurel’s snappy feel emphasizes quick feedback, the Macchiato prioritizes a seamless typing session, which can be beneficial for long periods of use, especially for those who type extensively or engage in gaming.

In conclusion, the KTT Laurel and HMX Macchiato switches cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel provides a low-pitched and snappy experience, ideal for users who appreciate a more subdued auditory environment combined with a responsive tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the Macchiato switch shines with its bright sound and silky smoothness, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced sound coupled with an effortless typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, as each switch offers a distinct experience that can significantly impact typing enjoyment.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the KTT Laurel and HMX Macchiato linear switches ultimately comes down to your individual preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you seek a switch that offers a snappy and responsive feel, along with a subtly low-pitched sound, the KTT Laurel is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation provides a cozy typing experience while maintaining a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for both typing-intensive tasks and casual gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience paired with a brighter sound profile, the HMX Macchiato is likely the better option for you. This switch, designed with a focus on seamless keystrokes, can enhance your overall enjoyment, especially if you favor a more vibrant auditory feedback while typing. In essence, your choice should reflect not only the tactile needs of your typing style but also the acoustic environment you prefer when using your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more