Bsun Light Sakura vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Light Sakura and the HMX Macchiato both offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Light Sakura is a silent linear switch celebrated for its ultra-light feel, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its noiseless operation allows users to type discreetly, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where reducing distractions is paramount. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, provides a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a delightful and pronounced sound profile. This switch caters to those who relish tactile feedback while enjoying a more vibrant auditory experience with each keystroke. While both switches fall into the linear category, they each bring their own distinct characteristics to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm extended spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the HMX Macchiato, a striking contrast emerges between the polycarbonate and nylon used in their respective top and bottom housings. The Light Sakura employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer resonance, making it ideal for users who appreciate bright auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, offering both aesthetic appeal and sound clarity. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound due to nylon's softer characteristics. This leads to a duller and rounder auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a more muted typing sound.
Despite the differences in material composition, the interaction between the top and bottom housings can create a unique typing experience for both models. For the Light Sakura, the polycarbonate top housing will dominate the sound produced upon releasing a key, enhancing the crisp exit sound, while the bottom housing also contributes to the overall resonance and clarity of each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato's nylon top housing focuses on providing a warm acoustics experience when the key is released, while the softer nylon bottom does much of the heavy lifting for the bottom-out sound and feel, giving users a rich and rounded auditory experience with less sharpness.
Ultimately, the relationship between housing materials and sound profile indicates that while the Bsun Light Sakura and HMX Macchiato have different approaches to their materials, they each deliver distinct yet fulfilling experiences. Users who favor the Light Sakura will appreciate the brightness and resonance from polycarbonate, particularly in RGB-lit environments, while those drawn to the Macchiato will find comfort in its muted and deeper sound profile, characteristic of nylon. While the overall sound signatures differ due to material choices, both switches cater to varied preferences in auditory feedback and tactile sensation, making them suitable for different typing styles and users.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Sakura has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option among the two. In comparison, the Macchiato features a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference implies that while both switches are considered light, the Light Sakura would be more suitable for users who prefer minimal force during long typing or gaming sessions, contributing to less finger fatigue. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato offers a heavier push, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two can influence user comfort and typing style based on their preference for lighter or heavier keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Light Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Macchiato has a longer travel distance, which may provide a deeper and more pronounced keystroke experience, appealing to users who prefer a substantial feel while typing. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Light Sakura caters to those who prioritize responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation times. While both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, it is evident that the Macchiato's 4 mm travel distance lends itself to a more traditional, robust typing experience, whereas the Sakura emphasizes speed and efficiency with its shorter travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is characterized by its silent operation, making it perfect for environments where noise is a concern. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato linear switch boasts a bright sound profile that adds an auditory satisfaction for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound during key presses. While both switches serve different preferences in terms of acoustics, they both can be influenced by external factors like the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which can further enhance or dampen their inherent sound qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Light Sakura switch offers an ultra-light touch that promotes comfort and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. This gentle tactile experience makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of use. On the other hand, the Macchiato is designed for a silky smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with effortless key presses. While the Light Sakura focuses on reducing physical strain, the Macchiato provides a refined and enjoyable typing sensation, appealing to users who seek a premium feel.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Light Sakura and HMX Macchiato cater to different auditory experiences—with the former prioritizing silence and the latter offering a vibrant sound—they share a commitment to enhancing the typing experience through their unique characteristics. The Light Sakura is tailored for discreet comfort, while the Macchiato is crafted for a luxurious tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your environment and personal typing style preferences, as both switches can create satisfying experiences in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Light Sakura and HMX Macchiato linear switches, it's essential to consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you prefer a lightweight switch that allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue, the Light Sakura may be your best choice. Its ultra-light feel, combined with its silent operation, makes it perfect for office spaces or shared environments where discretion is key. On the other hand, if you value a silky smooth typing experience and enjoy a more pronounced sound profile, the Macchiato will likely suit your needs better. With a slightly higher bottom-out force, it offers a satisfying feel that many find pleasurable while typing. Thus, your choice should ultimately align with whether you prioritize a quieter and gentler experience with the Light Sakura or a more tactile and audible one with the Macchiato.
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