HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing style, as illustrated by the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Dustproof Green. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is a linear switch that is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for typists who favor a quiet yet responsive feedback without the tactile bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that delivers an audible and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy the satisfying "click" with every keystroke, which can enhance the typing experience and boost typing accuracy. Each switch has its unique strengths: the Macchiato provides a seamless glide with minimal noise, ideal for office settings or late-night gaming, while the Dustproof Green is perfect for users who crave auditory confirmation and a more pronounced response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs most effectively.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 HMX Macchiato's nylon top housing with the Outemu Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing, notable differences in sound profiles emerge. The Macchiato's nylon housing elicits a deeper, fuller sound while typing, attributed to the material's ability to absorb sound more effectively due to its softer structure. This creates a more muted and rounded auditory experience, making it ideal for users who prefer enveloping and subtle typing sounds. Conversely, the Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffer and more resonant properties, produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinct sound quality can enhance auditory feedback during typing, particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced and clear typing experience.
On a different note, both the Macchiato and the Dustproof Green share the benefit of using nylon for their bottom housings. In both switches, the nylon bottom contributes to a similar, deeper sound profile that is consistent between the two. The absorption qualities of the nylon material ensure that bottoming-out actions produce a smooth and rounded sound. This consistency allows users to experience a cohesive auditory feedback regardless of the differences present in the top housings—while the top housing influences the sound upon release, the nylon base guarantees a uniform response when keys are pressed down.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings leads to a unique yet balanced typing experience for each switch. The HMX Macchiato's distinct sound profile from its nylon top is complemented by the depth from the nylon bottom, creating a cohesive tactile and auditory experience. The Outemu Dustproof Green, while featuring a polycarbonate top that provides a sharper sound, still benefits from the nylon bottom's rounded characteristics. Users can expect rewarding experiences from both switches, with the potential for customization through the blend of sound qualities brought forth by their different housing materials. The sound profiles will differ upon key press versus release; however, the nylon bottom of each ensures that both switches exhibit a deeper, fuller auditory experience at their core.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces are evident. The Macchiato features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, facilitating longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch requires a considerably heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. This heavier force can provide a satisfying pushback that some users find desirable. As a result, the Macchiato is the lighter option, while the Dustproof Green is the heavier one. These differences in force characteristics can lead to distinct typing experiences, allowing users to choose a switch that best matches their preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is identical, with each switch having a travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect comparable keypress feedback and responsiveness when using either switch. Since both have the same travel distance, the typing experience in terms of key travel will feel consistent across the two options, allowing for a seamless transition between them without any adjustment in finger movement. Overall, the equal travel distance of 4 mm in both switches highlights their design compatibility in providing similar tactile experiences.
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 Green 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch produces a bright sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel more pronounced without being overly harsh. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have a widely recognized sound characteristic, so its sound profile remains less defined compared to the Macchiato. However, generally, clicky switches like the Dustproof Green are expected to emit a distinctive "click" upon actuation, contributing a sharp auditory feedback that many typists enjoy.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato is characterized by its silky smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that many users find satisfying and pleasant. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is likely to provide a tactile bump, typical of clicky switches, which gives a noticeable feedback when the key is actuated. This tactile response can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy a more engaged feel with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the HMX Macchiato linear switch offers a bright sound profile and a smooth feel, appealing to those who prefer a more flowing typing style. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch presents a potentially less defined sound but a tactile experience that many typists appreciate. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways. If you enjoy auditory feedback during your typing, the Dustproof Green may be a better fit, while fans of smooth operation will likely prefer the Macchiato.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you use your keyboard. If you prioritize a light, smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and enjoy a brighter sound profile, especially in a quieter setting where you don't want to disturb others, the HMX Macchiato would be an excellent fit for you. Its bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with audible feedback and don't mind a heavier key press — perhaps in a personal or more isolated space where the clicky sound won't bother anyone — the Dustproof Green could satisfy your preference for a more pronounced, engaging feel. With a bottom-out force of 80 grams, it provides a satisfying resistance that some typists find appealing. Ultimately, your typing style, sound preference, and the context of your keyboard usage will guide you in selecting the switch that best enhances your typing experience.
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