HMX Macchiato vs. Cherry MX Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options in the linear category are the HMX Macchiato and Cherry MX Red. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing feel and a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a seamless and quiet keystroke. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red switch is a longstanding favorite, known for its slightly heftier feel and a deeper, thocky sound, delivering a robust experience that combines both responsiveness and satisfying auditory feedback. While the Macchiato may appeal to those seeking an ultra-smooth and subtle sound, the MX Red is favored by typists who enjoy a little more substance in their key presses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

Cherry MX Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Red, it's notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice reflects a commitment to sound quality and tactile experience that is inherent in both designs. The nylon housing's unique properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a softer, more cushioned typing experience. As a result of this similarity, users can expect analogous auditory feedback when using either switch, as the nylon effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more subdued and rounded acoustic output.

Delving further into the specifics, the impact of the nylon material on bottom housing characteristics is particularly pronounced in both models. While the bottom-out sound and sensation you experience when pressing the switch rely significantly on the material of the bottom housing, the Macchiato and MX Red’s use of nylon ensures that both provide a similar tactile feedback when bottoming out. This design choice not only enhances the overall typing experience but also reinforces the performance consistency across both switches. Users can thus anticipate a comparable bottom-out feel, which is crucial for typists and gamers alike who value responsiveness in their mechanical keyboards.

The subtle differences between the two switches may arise in the individual designs or actuation mechanisms rather than the material itself. While both switches aim for a top-tier sound profile, any variation that may exist would likely stem from factors other than the housing material, such as the internal components or spring configurations. In essence, the predominance of nylon as a material for both switches aligns their sound and feel closely, ensuring that users will find a similar level of satisfaction in terms of auditory depth and tactile feedback, regardless of the switch they choose.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams, while the MX Red comes in slightly heavier at 45 grams. This means that the Macchiato is the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. Moreover, the Macchiato has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a clear tactile feedback when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Red is not available, leaving a gap in the comparative analysis for that aspect. This lack of information means we cannot definitively state how the bottom out experience differs between the two switches. Overall, the Macchiato provides a lighter touch and a known bottom out force, while the MX Red, albeit a bit heavier in actuation, leaves some uncertainty regarding its bottom out characteristics.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this key aspect. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom of the key press. As a result, typists and gamers seeking a consistent key feel can expect similar feedback and performance from both switches. Since their travel distances are identical, users can anticipate comparable tactile experiences, providing an advantage when choosing between the two for both typing and gaming purposes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato switch is known for its bright sound profile, which typically translates to a higher-pitched, clearer note when the key is pressed. This can create a lively auditory experience, enhancing the engagement a typist may feel while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a much deeper, thocky sound that resonates with a rich, low-pitched thud upon activation. This deeper sound can evoke a sense of solidity and reliability while typing, making it perfect for those who appreciate auditory feedback during their keypresses. The difference between the two emphasizes a more vibrant and lighter acoustic character in the Macchiato versus the resonant and robust aural experience provided by the MX Red.

Regarding the feel of each switch, the HMX Macchiato is celebrated for delivering a silky smooth typing experience, which suggests that it provides a fluid keypress without any noticeable friction, allowing for effortless typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is characterized as having a more textured feel, potentially introducing a subtle friction that some users might find appealing. This textured sensation could offer a greater sense of control and tactile feedback during typing, although it may not be as seamless as the Macchiato's design. The choice between them might ultimately come down to personal preference in tactile sensation—the Macchiato appealing to those who favor smoothness and fluidity, while the MX Red caters to those who appreciate a bit more texture in their keystrokes.

In summary, both the HMX Macchiato and Cherry MX Red switches cater to different preferences in typing characteristics, with the former focusing on a bright sound and silky smooth experience, and the latter emphasizing deeper auditory notes and a textured feel. While both switches promise a satisfying experience, their distinct qualities will appeal to different typists: those seeking a lively, fluid keypress may lean toward the Macchiato, while those who prefer a more grounded, tactile feedback might opt for the Cherry MX Red. Ultimately, exploring your individual preferences will help guide your decision between these two popular options.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you'll want to consider your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you’re someone who values a light touch and a silky smooth feel with a bright sound, the HMX Macchiato would likely be your best choice. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for fast typists or those who prefer a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier switch that offers a deeper auditory feedback, the Cherry MX Red may align better with your needs. Known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the MX Red provides a more robust typing experience, which can feel satisfying and reassuring with each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight, bright, and smooth experience or a heavier, textured feel paired with a deeper sound. By considering these factors, you'll be able to choose the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more