HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

Overview

When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Dustproof Brown can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, is a linear switch celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes and bright sound profile, making it an excellent option for users who prioritize a seamless typing feel and minimal resistance. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that offers noticeable feedback on keypresses, appealing to those who enjoy a more responsive and engaging typing experience. While the Macchiato excels in providing a quiet and fluid typing environment, the Dustproof Brown caters to those who appreciate the satisfaction of tactile bumps with each keystroke. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, one of the most significant distinctions lies in the top housing. The Macchiato utilizes nylon, known for its softer qualities that contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile, absorbing sound effectively and creating a muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is distinctly stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference not only affects the acoustic properties of the switches but also their compatibility with RGB lighting; polycarbonate’s translucency enhances vibrancy when backlighting is utilized, a feature absent in the more opaque nylon top housing of the Macchiato.

On the bottom housing side, both switches share a commonality in material, utilizing nylon for their construction. This duality means that despite the contrasting top housing materials, both switches evoke a deeper, fuller sound profile when bottomed out. The nylon material's softer texture effectively absorbs sound, leading to a muted experience that enhances tactile feedback when the keys are pressed down. The similarities in the bottom housing ensure that typists and gamers alike will find comfort and consistency in how the keys feel, allowing users to maintain a sense of familiarity regardless of the differing top housings.

Overall, if one were to combine the distinct sound profiles of the Macchiato and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches, they would allow for a unique typing experience. The softer nylon bottom housing of both designs ensures that the tactile feedback remains cohesive, while the choice of top housing creates a diverse soundscape, suitable for different user preferences. Therefore, users of the Macchiato would enjoy a muted sound experience paired with a deeper resonance, while those opting for the Dustproof Brown would appreciate a crisper auditory feedback without losing the comfortable touch characteristic of nylon. The interplay between housing materials ultimately shapes the overall tonal diversity and tactile experience provided by the switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a comfortable typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a more pronounced bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial tactile experience. As a result, while both switches serve their respective preferences well, the Macchiato is the lighter option, promoting endurance for long hours of typing or gaming. Conversely, the Dustproof Brown's higher forces may appeal to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke response.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience identical distances as they engage both switches. Since the travel distances are equal, this will yield similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness for those who prefer either type of switch. Thus, users can expect a consistent experience regarding key travel regardless of their choice between the Macchiato and Dustproof Brown switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is renowned for its bright sound profile, which adds an engaging auditory experience while typing. This characteristic can make each keystroke feel more lively and dynamic. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specific sound profile detailed, leaving its sound characteristics less defined. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is heavily influenced by other factors, including the keyboard build and keycap material, which means that both switches could potentially deliver varying auditory experiences depending on these variables.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Macchiato linear switch excels with its silky smooth typing experience, offering a seamless keystroke that many typists find pleasurable. This smoothness is typically favored by users who appreciate fluidity and speed while typing, as there are no tactile bumps or resistance to disrupt the flow. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is primarily categorized as tactile but lacks specific details on its feel. Tactile switches generally provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can give typists feedback and a sense of assurance when pressing keys, although specifics about the Dustproof model remain uncertain.

In conclusion, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch is clearly distinguished by its bright sound and silky smoothness, the Outemu Dustproof Brown lacks defined auditory and tactile qualities, making it harder to assess its performance explicitly. Users looking for an engaging typing experience may prefer the Macchiato, while those seeking to explore a tactile option may still find value in the Dustproof Brown, albeit with less certainty regarding its characteristics. Regardless, the environment, board selection, and keycap choice can influence your overall experience with either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force, the Macchiato is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy the satisfying sound that accompanies each keystroke. It’s particularly well-suited for long hours of typing or gaming, where a fluid motion can enhance comfort and performance. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback with a more pronounced resistance that can help you feel each key activation, the Dustproof Brown provides a satisfying, responsive experience. The higher actuation force is ideal for users who appreciate a more structured feel while typing and can also deter accidental key presses, making it suitable for both typing and gaming where precision matters. In essence, your individual typing style and personal preferences should guide your decision between these two distinct and enjoyable switch types.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more