HMX Macchiato vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch both offer unique experiences tailored for different typing preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is renowned for delivering an exceptionally silky smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy a clear and melodic feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch from PH Studio, manufactured by BSUN, stands out with its distinct auditory character; it features a fairly high-pitched sound while maintaining a muted essence that strikes a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. With its Ly material in the stem, the Milk Tea ensures that every press feels effortless and refined. Both switches cater to linear switch aficionados, yet they deliver diverging auditory experiences—one vibrant and smooth, the other clacky and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Macchiato and PH Studio Milk Tea switches distinguish themselves through their choice of housing materials, which significantly influence their auditory profiles and tactile experiences. The Macchiato features a nylon top and bottom housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound due to the material's softer characteristics. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a muted, rounded profile that produces a satisfying acoustic experience when typing. This consistency in housing material contributes to a cohesive sound signature, suggesting that users will find a consistently rich auditory landscape whether pressing down or releasing the key.

In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea adopts POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, which also creates a unique sound profile. While still on the deeper side, the sound produced by POM is characterized as incredibly pleasing and somewhat more muted than that of nylon. The use of POM shifts the auditory characteristics slightly, as it may provide a sharper, more distinct yet still muted click than nylon. Users of the Milk Tea switch can expect a sound profile that is rich and satisfying, though it may differ in texture and tone when compared to the Macchiato's nylon setup.

Despite the different materials used, both switches focus on delivering a deep and pleasant sound profile. This means that while the materials may alter the specific qualities and nuances of the typing experience—including how each switch sounds on bottoming out and releasing—the essence of achieving a satisfying auditory experience remains intact. Consequently, whether opting for the nylon-based Macchiato or the POM-based Milk Tea, users can expect a fulfilling typing experience marked by a broadly deep and rich sound, albeit with subtle variations brought forth by the properties of each housing material.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but the Milk Tea is notably lighter in both measurements. The Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. This difference makes the Milk Tea an appealing choice for those who appreciate a softer touch for long typing or gaming sessions, contributing to comfort and reducing fatigue. In contrast, the Macchiato may feel more substantial due to its slightly higher forces. Despite their differences, both switches offer a gentle typing experience, ideal for users who favor lighter switches, but the Milk Tea is distinctly lighter overall.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Milk Tea measures 3.6 mm. This means that the Macchiato, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for those who appreciate a deeper key press, appealing to users who prefer a more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm aligns with contemporary trends favoring quicker responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking faster reaction times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you desire a deeper, more pronounced keystroke, the Macchiato is the better option, while the Milk Tea caters to those who prioritize speed and quick response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile, providing a typing experience that is both engaging and lively. The Macchiato allows for a clear, resonant feedback that makes each keystroke feel crisp without veering into harsh territory. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory blend characterized by a high-pitched and fairly clacky quality. The Milk Tea switch presents a gentle balance, creating a high-pitched sound that remains muted and refined, preventing it from becoming overwhelming. The sound itself can be described as clean and sharp, resonating well with users who prefer a typing experience that feels both present and subtle.

In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato is designed to provide a silky smooth typing experience, aiming for an effortless keystroke without any noticeable resistance. This quality allows for seamless key travel and contributes to the overall pleasantness of typing on it. Similarly, the Milk Tea switch boasts a polished feel, ensuring that each stroke is refined and smooth. The silky texture combined with the polished finish offers a result that minimizes friction, further enhancing the typing experience. Both switches aim for smoothness and comfort but approach it through slightly different manufacturing techniques and materials.

In conclusion, while both the HMX Macchiato and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches bring unique auditory and tactile profiles to the table, they share a common goal of providing enjoyable user experiences. The Macchiato’s bright, crisp sound and silky smooth feel combine to create an engaging typing experience, whereas the Milk Tea’s high-pitched clack and polished texture present an elegant balance of presence and subtlety. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference, as each provides a distinct experience while retaining similar qualities of smoothness and auditory satisfaction.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the choice between the HMX Macchiato and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing. If you gravitate towards a smooth, effortless typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Macchiato would be an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force offers just the right balance of resistance for those who appreciate a bit more weight in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a unique auditory signature, the Milk Tea's 43.5-gram bottom-out force makes it a perfect option, combining ease of use with a high-pitched, clacky sound that adds a lively element to your typing experience. The polished and silky feel of the Milk Tea switches enhances this effortless experience, making them ideal for continuous typing sessions. In the end, it comes down to whether you favor a more pronounced tactile feedback with a crisp sound or a gentler, more nuanced auditory experience—you can't go wrong with either choice, but it's all about finding the switch that resonates with your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more