HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Ocean

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Ocean present distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is a linear switch celebrated for its silky smooth keystrokes and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a streamlined and quiet typing experience, ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that offers a noticeable bump at the actuation point, providing feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging, which can enhance typing accuracy and aid in a more deliberate typing rhythm. While the Macchiato appeals to those who prioritize smoothness and quiet operation, the Ocean caters to users who appreciate tactile sensations and auditory feedback. 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 Ocean Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Ocean switches, one of the most notable differences lies in their top housing materials. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of the plastic. This material effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted acoustic experience that many typists find pleasing. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, offering a crisper acoustic feedback when a key is released. The choice of top housing material in both switches signifies distinct auditory experiences—one leaning towards warmth and depth, while the other provides clarity and brightness.

When examining the bottom housing materials, both the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Ocean utilize nylon. This commonality means that both switches will share similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys. The nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, creating a rounded acoustic reach that enhances the overall typing experience. This uniformity allows the Outemu Ocean to still possess a rich acoustic quality on bottoming out, akin to the Macchiato, despite the differing top housings. Thus, while the top housing materials diverge significantly in terms of auditory impact, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the foundational experience of typing remains consistent.

Ultimately, the interplay between the differing top and identical bottom housings of these switches highlights an interesting dynamic in their performance. The distinct sound profiles introduced by the top materials can create an overall experience where each switch feels and sounds unique, yet the consistent nylon bottom housing ensures that both types will deliver a satisfying bottoming feel. The varying contributions of the top housings play a critical role when releasing a key, while the shared characteristics of the bottom housing guarantee that deeper acoustics remain a defining feature across both models. In this way, both the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Ocean bring their own flavor to the typing experience, balancing contrast and similarity effectively.

Weight

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, impacting the typing experience they provide. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it more suited for users who prefer a softer touch and the ability to type or game for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Ocean switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience that provides a stronger tactile feedback with each keystroke. While the Macchiato's bottom out force is at 50 grams, the Ocean's bottom out force remains unknown, leaving it unclear how it compares in that regard. However, the absence of a specified bottom out force for the Ocean does not affect its initial actuation force, which is distinctly heavier than that of the Macchiato. Thus, if users prefer a lighter switch for comfort and endurance, the HMX Macchiato is the favorable choice, while those who appreciate a firmer feel may gravitate towards the Outemu Ocean.

Travel distance

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making their travel distances equal. This similarity means that users can expect comparable key feel and responsiveness when pressing down on either switch. As a result, you can achieve similar tactile feedback and performance across both switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience. With their identical travel distances, there isn't a shorter or longer option between the two; instead, they deliver the same level of travel from top to bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato switch is celebrated for its bright and clear sound profile, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to the typing experience. It produces a distinct yet pleasant sound that is engaging without being overly loud or disruptive. The Outemu Ocean switch, however, does not have a specified sound character, leading to uncertainty about its acoustic qualities. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can greatly vary depending on the keyboard chassis and keycap materials used, so both switches may sound different in practice based on these factors.

Regarding the feel, the HMX Macchiato switch is characterized by its silky smoothness, which allows for effortless keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience. This smooth action can contribute to reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Outemu Ocean switch does not have a defined tactile feel conveyed, leaving potential users without clear expectations about how it will respond under their fingers. Understanding the nuances of a switch's feel is vital, as this can greatly influence usability and personal preference.

In summary, the HMX Macchiato linear switch stands out for its bright sound and smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize an engaging and low-resistance typing experience. The Outemu Ocean's qualities remain somewhat ambiguous, particularly in sound and feel, making it harder to compare directly without further information. Potential users may find some similarities in typing experiences based on their specific setups, but overall, the Macchiato offers a more defined set of qualities that may appeal to a wider range of typists.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience, the HMX Macchiato would be ideal for you, as its 50g bottom-out force makes it easy to type quickly and effortlessly while enjoying a bright sound profile that adds a layer of satisfaction to your sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback and desire a switch that provides a distinct bump to guide your fingers, the Outemu Ocean would be more suitable, despite lacking detailed sound and feel specifications. The tactile sensation can enhance your typing accuracy and provide a more engaging experience overall. Ultimately, if you're looking for a quieter, smoother typing experience, go for the Macchiato; if you value the tactile feedback and a sense of direction in your keystrokes, the Ocean will serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more