HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Gold

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Gold offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, is a linear switch celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet yet fluid keystroke without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that provides not only an audible feedback with each press but also a tactile bump, which many users find satisfying and engaging, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Macchiato may appeal to typists seeking a quieter and more streamlined interaction, the Outemu Gold is perfect for those who enjoy the classic clicky sound and feedback that comes with a tactile switch. 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 Gold Clicky

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Gold switches, the differences in their top housing materials are particularly noteworthy, as they significantly impact sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs sound effectively, producing a deeper and fuller audio experience when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Gold features a polycarbonate top housing that presents a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely attributable to polycarbonate's stiffer structure, which enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a more defined auditory feedback. Therefore, the fundamental difference in sound characteristics arises from the materials, with nylon producing a more muted sound versus polycarbonate's clearer tones.

Conversely, both the Macchiato and the Outemu Gold share the same nylon material for their bottom housings, rendering their tactile feedback and deeper sound qualities quite similar. As both switches employ nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent experience when bottoming out. The softness of nylon leads to a rounder, more subdued sound that enhances the tactile experience, regardless of the differing top housing materials. Thus, while the top housings contribute distinct auditory profiles, the bottom housings unify the overall feel and sound experience, making them a constant regardless of the top's properties.

Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials and identical bottom housing will influence the overall typing experience in nuanced ways. The Macchiato will deliver a more cohesive, softer sound combined with a rounded bottom-out feel thanks to its nylon components. Meanwhile, the Outemu Gold will offer a more vibrant and crisp auditory experience during key releases. Users interested in RGB customization may find the polycarbonate housing of the Gold advantageous for lighting effects; however, the deep sound of the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that users experience a resemblance in overall feel and typing satisfaction when bottoming out, despite the notable audio differences introduced by their respective top housings.

Weight

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces, appealing to different preferences among keyboard users. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it easier to press, which is ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Gold has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users might prefer for tactile feedback. Consequently, if you are after a lighter switch for comfort, the Macchiato is the better choice, while the heavier Gold switch may suit those who enjoy a more resistant typing experience. Overall, these force differences highlight the importance of selecting a switch that matches your typing style and usage needs.

Travel distance

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This identical travel distance means that users can expect a similar key feel when pressing down on either switch, resulting in a consistent typing experience across both options. Since both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, there are no longer or shorter distances to compare. This similarity in travel distance contributes to the overall performance and responsiveness, allowing users to achieve comparable results in terms of key actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is noted for its bright sound profile, which can enhance the overall typing experience. The clear, crisp acoustic feedback provides a pleasing auditory experience that many users find appealing, especially in quieter settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its distinctive click sound that delivers a satisfying auditory cue with every keystroke. This click sound is sharper and can be more pronounced compared to the Macchiato, making it suitable for users who enjoy that auditory confirmation while typing.

Regarding feel, the Macchiato switch is celebrated for offering a silky smooth typing experience. It provides consistent key presses without tactile bumps or interruptions, allowing for fast, effortless typing—ideal for users who prioritize speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switch, being a clicky switch, offers a tactile bump that provides more feedback during use. This tactile sensation, combined with the click sound, can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a more engaging and interactive feel while typing.

In conclusion, if you're drawn to a smooth and bright sound experience, the HMX Macchiato linear switch would likely suit your preferences, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch caters to those who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing styles, ensuring that, regardless of your choice, you'll encounter an engaging and satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth and satisfying keystroke, the Macchiato is an excellent option, especially for tasks that require prolonged typing sessions or a gentle response from your keyboard. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who emphasize speed and fluidity, making it a fantastic choice for both gaming and typing in a quiet environment. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile experience and appreciate the audible feedback that comes with a clicky switch, the Outemu Gold is the way to go. With a slightly heavier 60-gram bottom-out force, it provides a more deliberate feel that can enhance your typing accuracy, making it suitable for those who like to feel their keystrokes with each press. Each switch brings its unique sound and feel to the table; therefore, consider your typing habits and audible preferences when making your choice. In the end, whether you opt for the silky smooth Macchiato or the satisfying click of the Gold, both can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in different ways.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Gold Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more