HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to optimizing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switch can make all the difference. The HMX Macchiato, a linear switch crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for providing a silky smooth typing feel and a bright sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more understated acoustic feedback while enjoying a fast, responsive keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is categorized as a clicky switch, known for its distinct auditory feedback and tactile bump at actuation, appealing to users who thrive on the satisfying sound and feel that traditional typing evokes. Each switch caters to different typing preferences: the Macchiato encourages a fluid and quieter environment, while the Dustproof Blue energizes the workspace with its pronounced clicks. 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches, notable differences emerge between their top housing components. The Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. This characteristic results in sound absorption that leads to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue employs a polycarbonate top housing, which, conversely, produces a sharper and more resonant sound state. The rigid structure of polycarbonate provides a crisp audio profile, complemented by its translucency that facilitates effective RGB lighting integration. Therefore, while the Macchiato's nylon top promotes a warm and muted sound, the Dustproof Blue’s polycarbonate generates a brighter and more vibrant sound experience.
However, the bottom housings of both switches share a similarity, as they are both constructed from nylon. This consistent material choice results in a depth of sound that both switches can be expected to deliver when pressed. The nylon’s inherent characteristics lead to a soft bottom-out feel, promoting a fuller and rounder auditory response regardless of the differences found in the top housing materials. This means that in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile when the keys are fully traversed, both switches will likely evoke a similar response, centered around a deeper sound thanks to the nylon composition.
In summary, while the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches differ markedly in their top housing materials — with the Macchiato leveraging nylon for a more muted tone and the Dustproof Blue favoring polycarbonate for a crisper sound — the shared nylon bottom housing creates a binding element in their acoustic performance. This interplay of materials allows for a nuanced typing experience across both switches, with each bringing distinct characteristics to the table while maintaining a cohesive feel in the actuation phase. This contrast and consistency exemplify the intricate relationship between switch design and sound performance, illustrating how different materials can result in unique user experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that users of the Macchiato can type for extended periods with less effort, ideal for work and long gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Dustproof Blue switch. Overall, the Macchiato offers a smoother and lighter typing experience, whereas the Dustproof Blue provides a more tactile and assertive keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both exhibit a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This similarity means that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch, resulting in comparable tactile feedback during typing or gaming. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke depth and responsiveness, ensuring that their experience remains consistent regardless of the switch choice.
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 Dustproof Blue 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is celebrated for its bright sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory experience during typing. The Outemu Dustproof Blue switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its clicky sound, which is generally favored by users who enjoy a more tactile and mechanical feedback with an audible confirmation for each keypress. The Macchiato’s bright sound can create a cheerful typing atmosphere, while the Dustproof Blue’s clicky experience may evoke a more traditional retro typing feel, often appealing to enthusiasts of vintage keyboards. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can vary depending on various factors, including the keyboard construction and keycap material.
As for feel, the HMX Macchiato is renowned for its incredibly smooth action, allowing users to glide effortlessly from key to key with minimal resistance, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue features a distinctly tactile bump that gives strong feedback upon actuation, which can be particularly satisfying for users who enjoy the sensation of each keystroke being accompanied by a pronounced click. The smooth feel of the Macchiato aligns perfectly with users looking for a more fluid typing experience, while the tactile response of the Blue switch can enhance typing accuracy for those who prefer a more interactive touch.
In conclusion, the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offer distinct audio and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Macchiato excels in providing a silky smooth feel along with a bright sound, making it suitable for users who prioritize a seamless typing experience. Conversely, the Dustproof Blue's clicky feedback combined with its tactile nature appeals to those who enjoy sensory engagement with an old-school keyboard vibe. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can yield enjoyable typing experiences, though they suit differing styles and needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a typing experience that is both smooth and light, the Macchiato is an excellent choice, especially for long typing sessions where fatigue could be a concern. Its 50 gram actuation force ensures that you can type effortlessly, while the bright sound profile adds a pleasant auditory feedback without being overly distracting. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback with each keystroke, the Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. With a heavier 65 gram bottom-out force, it offers a solid resistance that can enhance precision in your typing, making it ideal for users who prefer to feel each action distinctly and enjoy the classic clicky sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a light, smooth experience or a more tactile and pronounced feedback in your keyboard setup.
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