HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Blue Jade offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, stands out for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who seek a fluid and enjoyable typing feel without the responsiveness of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade, known for its clicky actuation, provides an audible and tactile response that many typists find satisfying, particularly when typing long documents or gaming. This clicky nature can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more interactive and noisier feedback. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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
Both the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Blue Jade utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings, which makes for a significant similarity in acoustic performance and feel. Nylon is well-regarded in the realm of keyboard switches due to its softer plastic composition, which naturally absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that characterizes the typing experience on both switches. Users can expect a pleasant auditory feedback that is rounder and less piercing, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where a more muted sound may be preferred.
Despite their shared use of nylon housing, the impact of material choice diverges when considering the roles of the top and bottom housings in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. As both the Macchiato and Blue Jade employ nylon in both housings, they will deliver consistent acoustic properties. The user will thus enjoy a cohesive sound profile, where the muted characteristics of the nylon are present from the moment of keystroke to the lift-off.
In essence, both the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Blue Jade will provide a similar tactile and auditory experience due to their identical housing materials. This homogeneity suggests that enthusiasts could find both switches appealing, especially if they are seeking a soft, nuanced sound and feel. The main takeaway for users is that their experiences with either switch will align in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback, creating a unified typing experience that possesses the charming hollowness and warmth typical of nylon-based keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky 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 more suitable for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. This clear distinction means that the Macchiato is the lighter option, whereas the Blue Jade is on the heavier side. For individuals who prioritize a softer touch, the Macchiato would be the better choice, whereas those favoring a firmer push might gravitate towards the Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for weight and feedback during use.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, which means users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys. This equal travel distance contributes to a comparable typing experience, as both switches require the same amount of press to register a keystroke. Consequently, if you're looking for consistent performance between these two switches, you will achieve similar results due to their identical travel distance.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The HMX Macchiato linear switch offers a bright sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience while typing. This characteristic makes it suitable for users who enjoy a more vibrant soundscape, as it contributes a pleasingly crisp tone with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a distinct audible click every time a key is actuated, which provides a satisfying tactile feedback. This decisive click can be quite satisfying for typists who prefer an audible confirmation of their inputs, though it may not be as bright as the Macchiato's sound.
When it comes to feel, the Macchiato is renowned for delivering a silky smooth typing experience, characterized by a linear action that allows for effortless key presses without any tactile bump. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize smoothness and fluidity during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Blue Jade switch offers a tactile experience with a pronounced bump at the actuation point, which can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy a bit of resistance and feedback as they type. This tactile response can contribute to a more engaged experience, especially for those who value the physical sensation of their keystrokes.
In conclusion, while both switches provide distinct typing experiences, individuals interested in an elegant and smooth feel with a bright sound might gravitate toward the HMX Macchiato linear switch. Conversely, those who prefer a tactile and audible interaction when typing may find the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches will deliver enjoyable keystrokes but cater to different preferences in sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their specific typing desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a typing experience that is smooth and effortless, characterized by a light resistance of 50 grams, the Macchiato is an excellent choice. Its bright sound profile and silky smooth feel make it ideal for those who enjoy quiet, rapid typings—perfect for long hours of work or gaming without auditory distractions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and engaging experience, the Outemu Blue Jade with its medium-heavy resistance of 65 grams may be more suitable for you. This switch provides a satisfying clicky feedback that many typists find gratifying, making it ideal for those who enjoy the audible confirmation of each keypress and appreciate a bit more resistance. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your individual needs: opt for the Macchiato if you prioritize a smooth and quiet experience; choose the Blue Jade if you seek a hands-on feel and a pronounced auditory cue while typing.
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