HMX Macchiato vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, each offering unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth operation and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who desire a tactile yet melodious feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 boasts a crisper typing experience thanks to the removal of its predecessor’s rubber dampener, while still delivering the frictionless glide that the North Pole series is renowned for, capturing the hearts of users who favor a seamless feel. Both switches cater to linear switch aficionados, but they diverge in their auditory feedback and tactile sensations, appealing to different preferences in the typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and the Gateron New North Pole V2 showcase contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Macchiato employs nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper, fuller sound due to the material's softer characteristics. Nylon's ability to absorb sound enhances the overall auditory experience, creating a more rounded tone that many users find satisfying. In terms of aesthetics, the opaque nature of the nylon housing means it does not offer the same visual appeal for RGB lighting as a transparent material might. Consequently, users seeking a rich auditory experience may prefer the Macchiato for its warmth and depth.
In stark contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The higher-pitched auditory feedback appeals to those who favor a more precise and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing users to benefit from visually striking keycap illumination. The combination of its material properties suggests that the New North Pole V2 may be better suited for users who enjoy a more vivid lighting effect alongside a crisp sound profile.
When comparing the two switch types, it becomes evident that the distinctive sound profiles are influenced by the housing materials. The tactile feedback is affected by the bottom housing, which plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress. When typing on the Macchiato, the softer nylon contributes to a more muted sound upon release, whereas the New North Pole V2's stiffer polycarbonate provides a clearer sound as keys are lifted. Even though both switches utilize different materials, the way each housing influences the overall typing experience highlights how product design can cater to various preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired auditory and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience ideal for extended use, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, offering a more substantial feel that might appeal to users who enjoy a firmer push while typing. This means that the Macchiato is the lighter option, whereas the North Pole V2 presents a heavier experience, making them suitable for different preferences in typing feel and user comfort. Overall, both switches provide unique experiences based on their forces, catering to users' varied needs.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience the same keypress depth when using either switch. This equivalence in travel distance ensures a consistent feel and responsiveness in typing or gaming across both switches, allowing for similar performance characteristics regardless of the option chosen. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom, users can expect a comparable tactile experience, making them equally suitable for those who prioritize uniformity in their keyboard feel.
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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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, contributing to a more audible and engaging typing experience. This vivid sound can add to the enjoyment of typing, especially for those who prefer a lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches provide a crisper sound due to the absence of the rubber dampener found in its predecessor. While this absence enhances the overall clarity of each keystroke, it also means that the sound may be sharper compared to the Macchiato. Ultimately, both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences shaped by their construction and intended design, but it is important to consider that external factors like the keyboard used and the keycap material can significantly influence their sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Macchiato boasts a silky smooth typing experience, designed to provide gentle keystrokes that flow effortlessly. This smoothness may be synonymous with comfort, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches are characterized by a polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, which creates an incredibly smooth and refined typing experience. The combination of these attributes results in a key travel that is both fluid and responsive, making for a delightful typing experience. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Macchiato emphasizes a more consistently silky touch, whilst the New North Pole V2 offers variations in its polished and creamy finish, enhancing the overall typing dynamics.
In conclusion, both the HMX Macchiato and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Macchiato is favored for its bright sound and silky smooth feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging auditory response. Conversely, the New North Pole V2 excels in its crisp sound and a polished, frictionless tactile sensation, appealing to users seeking a refined and effortless typing experience. While they differ in specific auditory and tactile qualities, both switches ultimately offer the smoothness that many typists seek, reassuring newcomers that they can expect satisfying results from either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding typing experience and application. If you prefer a lighter actuation force with a silky smooth and creamy feel, the Macchiato is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a quieter, bright sound profile that enhances the overall experience. It's perfect for users who type frequently and appreciate a light touch without much resistance, making it ideal for long typing sessions or coding. On the other hand, if you want a more medium resistance with a polished and frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 would be your go-to option. This switch offers a crisper typing experience, lending itself well to those who favor a more tactile engagement or need precise actuation. Its robust construction without a rubber dampener appeals to gamers and typists alike who crave responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a lighter, smoother typing experience or a firmer, more tactile one, as both switches cater to different styles of mechanical keyboard usage.
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