HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean stand out as exceptional linear options, each offering a unique blend of features suited to different user preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who value auditory feedback and a fluid keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean aims to provide a quieter typing experience with its dustproof design, perfect for users in shared or noise-sensitive environments. While both switches cater to the linear typing style, the Macchiato excels in delivering a more engaging auditory experience, whereas the Silent Ocean focuses on minimizing sound and maximizing durability. 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 Silent Ocean Linear

$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 Silent Ocean, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller acoustic profile when typing. This softer plastic is advantageous for users seeking a muted sound experience, as it dampens any peaks in sound, creating a less harsh environment for typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean employs a polycarbonate top housing, which inherently offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The clarity that polycarbonate lends allows for a more resonant auditory experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing, especially in RGB-lit setups where the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances visual aesthetics.

Interestingly, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, which results in joined characteristics in terms of typing sound and feel. The use of nylon in the Macchiato's bottom housing mirrors the material used in the Dustproof Silent Ocean, thereby generating a consistent experience in both switches' bottom-out sound. This means that when users press down on either switch, they will experience the same deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to the softness of the nylon. Despite the differing top housings, the shared bottom housing material ensures a level of uniformity in the tactile experience during actuation.

Ultimately, the combination of these different housing materials results in a well-defined sound characteristic for each switch. The HMX Macchiato, with its nylon top housing, excels in creating a subdued typing experience, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean shines through with its polycarbonate top housing producing brighter auditory feedback. Nevertheless, the nylon bottom housing reconciles these differences, allowing users to feel and hear a familiar depth when bottoming out on either switch. By understanding these variations and overlaps, users can make informed choices based on their personal preferences and typing environments.

Weight

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, which can be particularly beneficial for extended periods of use. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Macchiato measures 50 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean significantly increases to 65 grams, reinforcing its medium-heavy classification. Overall, the Macchiato switch offers a lighter touch throughout its range, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a heftier resistance both in actuation and bottoming out, making it suitable for different preferences in typing dynamics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Macchiato switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional threshold favored by many users who enjoy a satisfying depth when pressing keys. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, catering to those who prefer a quicker response for gaming or fast-paced actions. While both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, users seeking a more visceral keypress may enjoy the longer travel of the Macchiato, whereas those who appreciate a swift key response might opt for the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Thus, the Macchiato switch is the longer of the two, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean is the shorter option, highlighting the varying preferences among users based on travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is characterized by a bright sound profile, making it pleasing to the ear without being overly loud. This makes it suitable for environments where a little acoustic feedback is appreciated, enhancing the typing experience without disturbing those around you. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have a widely described sound profile, which could imply a more subdued auditory presence. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound of a switch is greatly influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap material, so personal preferences may vary.

Regarding feel, the HMX Macchiato switch is renowned for delivering a silky smooth typing experience, which is particularly appealing for users who favor effortless keystrokes and a consistent actuation. This smoothness can be particularly satisfying during long typing sessions. The feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is not specifically detailed but, as a linear switch, it is likely to offer a relatively smooth experience as well. Linear switches, in general, are known for their lack of tactile bump, allowing for smooth key presses from top to bottom.

In conclusion, those who opt for the HMX Macchiato can expect a bright auditory experience complemented by an exceptionally smooth feel, making it a great choice for typing enthusiasts. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, while lacking explicit details about its sound characteristics, is likely to provide a quieter and reasonably smooth feel typical of linearity in mechanical keyboard switches. If you’re looking for specialized qualities, the HMX Macchiato stands out with its vibrant sound and tactile smoothness, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean may suit those seeking a more muted experience without sacrificing the linearity many prefer.

Conclusion

To conclude, when selecting between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, your choice ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you seek a light, smooth, and bright-sounding typing experience, the HMX Macchiato is perfect for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more effortless keystroke, enhancing your productivity and comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a firmer feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would be the better option, particularly in settings where noise reduction is crucial, as its design minimizes sound while still providing a satisfying tactile response. Therefore, consider the kind of typing experience you desire, along with your workspace acoustics, to make the most informed decision between these two excellent switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more