Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the HMX Macchiato both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Lotus V2 is praised for its responsive feel and is particularly appealing for gamers who prioritize speed and accuracy in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, stands out for its silky smooth typing experience and distinctive bright sound profile, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy a more tactile auditory feedback. While both switches are linear, their individual traits can significantly affect your typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the HMX Macchiato, an intriguing parallel emerges despite the distinct compositions of their top and bottom housings. The Lotus V2 features POM for both its top and bottom housings, which is celebrated for creating a unique and pleasing sound, characterized by a deeper and relatively muted profile. In contrast, the Macchiato utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. This classic material is known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile as well, owing to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Thus, while the specific materials differ greatly, both the POM and nylon designs are engineered to deliver deeper sound profiles, albeit through different sound absorption techniques.
As both the Lotus V2 and the Macchiato exhibit a commitment to sound quality, their design choices yield similar auditory results even with different materials. The Lotus V2’s POM, with its hard yet resonant properties, creates a sweet, muted tone, whereas the Macchiato’s nylon builds a softer ambiance, enhancing the overall fullness of sound. Nevertheless, the end-user experience may be enjoyable in different ways—where POM delivers a crisp subtlety, nylon tends to foster a warm embrace. The divergent qualities of the materials used result in variations in the typing feel and sound profile, which can appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, both the Lotus V2 and the Macchiato leverage their respective housing materials to achieve satisfying tactile and auditory experiences, though the means to that end vary. In each configuration, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the release sound. This split in acoustic characteristics may allow users to find a balanced familiarity in either switch, allowing for a pleasurable typing experience regardless of the preferred housing material. Whether through the resonant qualities of POM or the absorption properties of nylon, users will likely appreciate the deeper sound profiles these switches provide, demonstrating that while diverse in materials, the goals of sound engineering remain aligned.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, we can see distinct characteristics in their specifications. The Lotus V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Macchiato's 42 grams; thus, the Macchiato is the lighter switch. However, the Lotus V2 does not provide a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to compare that aspect directly. In contrast, the Macchiato has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires a more substantial push to fully engage. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Macchiato would be more suitable, especially for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Lotus V2 may appeal to those seeking a more substantial tactile feedback. Overall, with the actuation forces in mind, the Macchiato provides a lighter touch for quicker responses, while the Lotus V2's actuation force may cater to those who enjoy a slightly firmer press, although we lack complete information on the bottom out for the Lotus V2.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch measures 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the HMX Macchiato linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. With this difference, users seeking quicker response times may prefer the Lotus V2 for its more responsive feel, while those who favor a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Macchiato due to its longer travel distance. The traditional travel distance is 4 mm, making the Macchiato closer to this standard, while the Lotus V2's slightly shorter distance might cater more to the modern gamer’s preference for swifter feedback. Overall, if you’re looking for a more abrupt and rapid keypress experience, the Lotus V2 is the better choice, whereas for a deeper, more substantial feedback, the Macchiato is the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
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 Jerrzi Lotus V2 does not have a notable acoustic signature associated with it, leaving its sound profile somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato linear switch stands out with a bright sound profile, making it appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. It's important to remember that the overall sound experienced can also be influenced by the keyboard build, materials, and keycap selection you choose to pair with these switches.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 lacks defined characteristics, which could make it feel generic or unremarkable to some users. Conversely, the HMX Macchiato is specifically crafted to provide a silky smooth typing experience. This smoothness is particularly prized among typists and gamers alike, as it enhances the overall comfort and fluidity of keystrokes, creating an enjoyable tactile experience.
In conclusion, while the Jerrzi Lotus V2's subjective qualities remain undefined, the HMX Macchiato linear switch clearly offers a distinct bright sound and a notably smooth feel. Choosing between these two options will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize an established sound profile and tactile satisfaction, as the Lotus V2 may provide a more neutral experience. If sound and feel are essential to your typing pleasure, the Macchiato surely presents a compelling case, while the Lotus V2 may meet those who seek simplicity or neutrality in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, your ideal selection will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch that offers a significantly lighter bottom-out force and an effortless typing experience, the Lotus V2 may be the better choice. Its smooth action could appeal to those who value speed and fluidity, especially in fast-paced gaming or typing environments. On the other hand, if you're someone who appreciates a balanced sensation with a little more resistance and a delightful auditory feedback, you might find the HMX Macchiato to be more to your liking. Not only does it provide a silky smooth tactile feel, but it also boasts a brighter sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Consider what aspects matter most to you in a switch—whether it's the effortless actuation of the Lotus V2 or the satisfying sound and feel of the Macchiato—before making your final decision.
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