HMX Macchiato vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Speed Silver present intriguing options for different preferences and use cases. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it ideal for typists seeking a pleasant auditory and tactile sensation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for performance-oriented users, particularly gamers, with its rapid response and low spring resistance that ensures immediate actuation. Its full-height design enhances speed, making it a vital component for competitive play where timing is crucial. While both switches boast linear action and cater to different user needs—comfort and sound versus speed and responsiveness—each brings unique qualities to the keyboard experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing materials, underscoring their shared commitment to quality and performance. This commonality in housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to others, is adept at absorbing sound rather than reflecting it. Consequently, both switches produce a noticeable duller and rounder sound, largely attributed to the inherent characteristics of nylon. Such an auditory experience appeals to many users looking for a satisfying tactile and acoustic feedback during their typing sessions.
Despite their similarities in housing materials, the experience of using these switches may differ due to their individual designs and actuation mechanisms. While both switches reach the same acoustical and tactile characteristics owing to their nylon construction, they could produce varying bottom-out sounds and feel depending on their built-in mechanisms. For example, the differences in actuation forces and travel distances could influence how the switch responds under the user's fingers. Therefore, while users may find the acoustic profile to be similar, the overall typing experience could vary based on nuanced design specifications beyond just the housing materials.
Moreover, the impact of the housing materials on the overall auditory experience is pivotal in understanding these switches' characteristics. The bottom housing of each switch significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing shapes the sound while releasing the key. Given that both the HMX Macchiato and Cherry MX Speed Silver are designed with identical nylon materials, users can expect similar results in their respective sound profiles. However, the intertwined effects of the unique switch designs will ultimately define the experience, providing users with a distinctive feel despite similarities in material composition. This balance of design and material allows both switches to appeal to a diverse audience of keyboard enthusiasts, each hoping for a tailored typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch with the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we notice distinct differences in their actuation forces. The actuation force for the Macchiato is 42 grams, making it a lighter option, which is preferable for users seeking to type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, potentially appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While the Macchiato has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unavailable, making a direct comparison difficult for that particular measurement. Overall, while the Macchiato provides a lighter touch, the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a slightly heavier feel, leaving the choice dependent on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Macchiato has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the MX Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that users who prefer a more pronounced key press and tactile feedback might favor the Macchiato for its deeper actuation. On the other hand, gamers and those seeking quicker response times may find the Cherry MX Speed Silver more appealing due to its shallower travel distance, which allows for faster key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: a longer travel distance for those who enjoy a more substantial feedback versus a shorter one for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their typing or gaming experience.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato is known for its bright sound profile, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more elevated auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, characterized by a deep, satisfying thud when pressed. This gives the Speed Silver a comparatively rich auditory experience, which some users find more rewarding than the brighter tone of the Macchiato. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps, which means users might find similarities or differences in their personal setups.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Macchiato’s smooth typing experience provides a luxurious sensation during use, making it ideal for those who prioritize a fluid typing motion without any tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is described as textured, meaning it incorporates some friction during key presses. This textured sensation may not appeal to everyone, especially those who favor a fully smooth switch. Nevertheless, gamers often appreciate this feedback since it helps them stay connected with the keyboard, providing a tactile response that can enhance overall performance.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Macchiato and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches offer unique attributes catering to different preferences, they each have qualities that could either appeal or deter users based on their typing or gaming needs. The Macchiato excels in providing a silky smooth feel complemented by a bright sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a seamless experience. Conversely, the MX Speed Silver shines in delivering rapid response times and satisfying auditory feedback, making it a favored choice among gamers. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or specific use cases like typing versus gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a light, silky smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile, the HMX Macchiato is an excellent choice, especially for typing or casual use where comfort and enjoyment take precedence. Its 50-gram bottom-out force strikes a great balance for users who prefer less resistance, making it suitable for long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you are a gamer who prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver would be the better option. With its rapid response and full height structure designed for maximum agility, it excels when every millisecond counts during intense gameplay. However, keep in mind that the Speed Silver has a more textured feel, which may not suit everyone’s preference; thus, do consider how that plays into your overall typing experience. In the end, by understanding your individual requirements for typing feel and sound, you can confidently select the switch that aligns best with your keyboard usage.
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