HMX Macchiato vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and the Haimu Orange Sea both offer unique typing experiences, despite being categorized as linear switches. The HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth action paired with a bright sound profile, making it ideal for those who thrive on a clacky, bouncy typing sensation. Users who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback in their keystrokes may find the Macchiato to be a perfect fit. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch offers an impeccably smooth typing feel coupled with a neutral sound signature, catering to individuals who prefer a more muted auditory experience while still enjoying fluid keystrokes. This switch is especially suited for users who seek an invigorating typing experience without the extra noise. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound, but 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
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Macchiato and Haimu Orange Sea keyboards, one of the most significant distinctions lies in their top housing materials. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's relatively softer plastic composition, which effectively absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. As a result, the Macchiato is likely to provide a sound experience that feels rounded and smooth, immersing users in a more subdued audio environment. In contrast, the Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows sound frequencies to resonate more clearly, resulting in a more pronounced auditory feedback that can accentuate typing experiences, especially useful in scenarios where RGB lighting plays a role in aesthetic expression.
The bottom housings of both keyboards, however, share a common material: nylon. This creates a unique consistency between the two models in terms of the sound profile felt at the bottom-out point of a keystroke. Given that nylon absorbs sound effectively, both switches will yield a similar sensation when pressed down, contributing to a deep and full sound that users often appreciate for a more solid tactile feedback. This uniformity in bottom housing material means that despite the differing top housing materials and their respective acoustic profiles, users will have a consistent auditory experience at the bottom-out point across both the Macchiato and Orange Sea switches.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in each switch defines the nuanced audio experience they deliver. The contrasting top housing materials yield distinct sound characteristics—one rounded and enveloping, the other sharp and clear—while the shared nylon bottoms ensure that the tactile bottom-out feedback resonates similarly in both models. Consequently, while the typing experiences between the Macchiato and Orange Sea will differ in sound profile based on their top housings, the fundamental feel at the key's bottom-out point remains aligned due to the nylon composition, resulting in a cohesive user experience despite the varied auditory signatures.
Weight
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing and gaming sessions. The Macchiato has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Orange Sea is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Orange Sea switch requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Macchiato, which some users may prefer for a more effortless typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Orange Sea would be the better option, whereas those who enjoy a slightly more substantial feel might lean towards the Macchiato. Despite their differences, both switches provide a relatively similar typing experience in terms of their overall lightness, appealing to users who prioritize comfort over resistance.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This variance in travel distance indicates that the Macchiato offers a more pronounced depth when pressing the key, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a tactile sensation reminiscent of more traditional switches. In contrast, the Orange Sea, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance allows for faster actuation. Consequently, if you prioritize responsiveness and a snappier feel, the Orange Sea is the better choice, while the Macchiato is suitable for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke depth.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 is characterized by a clacky auditory profile. This means it has a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp and bright, producing a lively and percussive feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is noted for its neutral sound signature, implying that it operates quietly and without the pronounced audio characteristics that the Macchiato delivers. While both switches can potentially exhibit different sound dynamics depending on the keyboard construction and keycap material, those looking for a more vibrant auditory feedback will find the Macchiato's clack to be more engaging than the reserved sound of the Orange Sea.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches are quite notable. The HMX Macchiato boasts a silky and bouncy typing sensation, providing a smooth experience that minimizes resistance with a delightful rebound effect upon release. This switch is designed for extended comfort, as it embodies a feathery touch that reduces finger fatigue, ideal for long typing sessions. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features an invigorating tactile feel. This means it delivers a snappy and reactive experience that provides moderate to firm feedback with each keypress, ensuring that users can feel each actuation without overwhelming tactile feedback. The Orange Sea's accented feedback offers a medium level of tactility, making it distinct yet not overly pronounced.
Considering the overall qualities, the HMX Macchiato and the Haimu Orange Sea switches provide distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Macchiato's clackiness and silky feel cater well to those who enjoy a lively, expressive typing atmosphere, while the Orange Sea excels in offering a smooth and neutral typing experience with a touch of tactile feedback. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, either switch can potentially offer a satisfying keyboard experience, albeit in different ways: vibrant and expressive for the Macchiato and refined and straightforward for the Orange Sea.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Macchiato and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you're looking for. If you desire a silky smooth feel paired with a bright, clacky sound, and you often engage in extended typing sessions—whether for work or gaming—the Macchiato’s 50-gram actuation force will give you that light yet lively typing experience, with a bouncy, feathery touch that minimizes finger fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a typing experience that strikes a balance between smoothness and invigorating feedback, the Haimu Orange Sea’s slightly lighter 45-gram actuation force may be more suitable for you. The Orange Sea's understated sound and accentuated, invigorating feel provide that medium tactile response without overwhelming your fingers, making it perfect for those who enjoy a snappy, responsive typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, choose the Macchiato for an engaging auditory experience and comfort, and the Orange Sea for a more refined, neutral touch that enhances your typing precision.
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