HMX Macchiato vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and Cherry MX Black emerge as two noteworthy options, both offering distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing sensation and bright, clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lively tactile experience with a touch of bounce and feathery feel. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black switches, renowned for their low-pitched sound and textured smoothness, have evolved through Cherry's innovative Hyperglide tooling, appealing to users who value a solid, traditional typing feel with a deep auditory feedback. While both switches are linear in nature, they create vastly different typing experiences that may influence your choice based on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your unique style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Black share a significant similarity in their housing materials, as both models utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing due to nylon's relatively softer composition. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a sound that is not only duller but also rounder. Since both switches are constructed with the same type of nylon, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when typing, resulting in a satisfying and muted keystroke sound.
While the housing materials are identical for the HMX Macchiato and Cherry MX Black, the way these materials influence the switches can vary slightly based on their design and construction. Both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, providing a cohesive sound profile. Nevertheless, the distribution of the impact of each housing material on the user experience is critical. The bottom housing, for example, will affect the bottom-out sound when a key is pressed, leading to a more pronounced impact feel, whereas the top housing will largely determine the character of the sound when releasing a key. In this way, even with identical materials, the tactile feedback can be shaped by the overall design of the switches.
In conclusion, even though the HMX Macchiato and Cherry MX Black utilize the same nylon housings, the user experience may still diverge due to the architectural differences inherent in each switch. The shared nylon construction means that both switches provide an encapsulating sound profile during use, but factors such as the switch's internal mechanism and overall design will ultimately influence feel and response. Users can anticipate similar auditory characteristics from both the Macchiato and MX Black; however, nuances in tactile feedback may still arise from how each switch interprets the qualities of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for longer typing sessions and gaming without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black has a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. As a result, while the Macchiato is the lighter option, the MX Black will appeal to those who favor a heavier switch. Since the actuation and bottom out forces differ, users can expect distinct tactile experiences from each switch, with the Macchiato being more forgiving and the MX Black delivering a firmer feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom when pressed. This equal travel distance means that users can expect a similar feel and response when using either switch, providing a consistent typing or gaming experience. Since both switches share the same travel measurement, users can anticipate similar results in terms of key actuation and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 HMX Macchiato linear switch stands out with its clacky profile, delivering a crisp and bright auditory response that is sharp and percussive with every keystroke. This distinct sound can create an engaging typing experience, especially for users who enjoy the feedback of a lively keyboard. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch features a low-pitched sound that leans towards a deeper, more bass-heavy tone. This mellow auditory character is less sharp compared to the Macchiato, which can make it feel more subdued and less intrusive in quieter environments. Ultimately, the sound experience between these two switches is quite different, offering a clear choice based on personal preference.
The feel of the HMX Macchiato is defined by its silky smooth action, creating minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This switch also provides a bouncy sensation, giving users a satisfying rebound upon actuation that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the feathery lightness of the switch makes it incredibly comfortable for extensive use, reducing finger fatigue significantly. On the other hand, while the Cherry MX Black is celebrated for its reliability and durability, it does not possess unique descriptors in terms of feel like the Macchiato does. As a result, users who prioritize a highly tactile experience may find the Macchiato more appealing due to its combination of smoothness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is ideal for those seeking a bright sound profile and a comfortable, silky typing feel characterized by its bouncy and feathery qualities. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black provides a deeper auditory experience but lacks the nuanced tactile feedback of the Macchiato. For individuals looking for a lively and engaging typing experience, the Macchiato may be the better choice, whereas those who prefer a quieter, understated switch might lean towards the MX Black. Ultimately, your selection will hinge upon your personal preferences in sound and feel, highlighting the subjective nature of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, your choice should ultimately reflect your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you're someone who enjoys a light typing experience with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the HMX Macchiato is likely the better option for you. Its silky smooth feel, bouncy feedback, and clacky sound profile make it particularly suited for those who type for long periods or engage in gaming, where speed and comfort are paramount. The Macchiato's feathery actuation also means reduced finger fatigue, promoting a more enjoyable prolonged use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience and a heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams, you might lean towards the Cherry MX Black. Known for its deep, mellow sound profile and classic smoothness via Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, this switch is perfect for individuals who appreciate a firmer, more deliberate key press, often favored by both typists and gamers who prefer a bit more resistance in their key feel. In essence, choosing between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a light and airy typing experience or a more substantial, tactile feel, and their respective sound profiles can further complement your typing ambiance in either case.
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