HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing preferences, the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Red both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user needs, despite both being linear switches. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more refined auditory and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a popular option for gamers and typists seeking a reliable and responsive linear switch, even if it lacks the dedicated acclaim of the Macchiato. While both switches provide seamless keystrokes without the tactile bump, the choice between them ultimately comes down to individual preferences regarding sound and overall feel. 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 Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Red switches showcase distinct materials for their top housings, each significantly influencing their sound profiles. The Macchiato utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, allowing it to absorb more sound and thereby create a duller and rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Outemu Red features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for delivering a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, resulting in a brighter auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches are designed to elevate the typing experience, they do so through fundamentally different acoustic characteristics based on their respective top housing materials.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Macchiato and the Outemu Red showcase nylon as the material of choice. This similarity means that both switches will provide that signature deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out, as nylon's softer quality continues to absorb sound effectively. Therefore, while users may experience contrasting sound profiles when typing, particularly during key release, the bottom-out sound will possess a consistent quality thanks to the nylon material used in both switches' bottoms. This element can foster a sense of familiarity for users switching between the two, as they will retain a similar bottoming-out feel.

The disparate materials in the top housings of the Macchiato and Outemu Red switch also suggest an interesting interplay between how the housing types affect overall sound and feel. The nylon bottom helps mitigate the deeper sound profile of the Macchiato when keys are pressed but will still allow for that final satisfying thud when bottoming out. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate top of the Outemu Red ensures that the sharper sound melds with the nylon bottom's characteristics. Thus, the unique combinations yield varying experiences that maintain consistent bottoming-out qualities while diverging in sound when releasing the key. Ultimately, users seeking distinct sound profiles while enjoying similar housing characteristics during performance can find satisfaction in either switch's nuanced auditory experiences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch to the Outemu Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use in both work and gaming contexts. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which provides a more substantial feel for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. This makes the Macchiato the lighter option, while the Outemu Red is heavier. If the actuation and bottom out forces were equal for both switches, they would deliver similar typing experiences, but in this case, the different specifications highlight the distinct tactile preferences they cater to.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, both switches exhibit the same distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. This equality in travel distance means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when activating keys on either switch. Since both the Macchiato and the Red switches share identical travel distances, users will achieve comparable results in terms of key actuation and overall feel, making either option suitable for those who prefer a consistent linear switch experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, delivering a clear and pleasing acoustic signature that can enhance the typing experience. This can be especially enjoyable for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. The Outemu Red switch, however, does not have a specific sound profile described, which leaves it somewhat ambiguous in comparison. It's worth noting that sound perception can vary significantly depending on the specific keyboard construction, including factors like the choice of board and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Macchiato excels with its silky smooth typing experience, which ensures that each keystroke feels consistent and satisfying. This smooth action can help reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The feel of the Outemu Red switch is not explicitly detailed, but typically, linear switches like the Outemu Reds are known for their smooth keystrokes as well. This similarity suggests that both switches can provide a fluid typing experience, but the Macchiato may offer a more refined quality due to its design focus.

In conclusion, while the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Red switches both provide smooth keystrokes typical of linear switches, the Macchiato distinguishes itself with a brighter sound profile and a more luxurious feel. If you prioritize auditory feedback and a premium typing sensation, the Macchiato is the better choice. However, if you're looking for a basic linear switch, the Outemu Red can still offer a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but both switches are poised to deliver a fluid typing action.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios will play a significant role. If you value a smooth and light typing experience, the HMX Macchiato switch, with its lower actuation force of 50 grams, is likely to meet your needs, especially if you enjoy a more responsive feel and a brighter sound profile. This switch is particularly suitable for extended typing sessions or tasks that involve a lot of keystrokes, as it reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feedback and slightly heavier resistance while typing, the Outemu Red, with its 62 grams of bottom-out force, might be the better option for you. Although the Red switch may not have the specific acclaim of the Macchiato, its medium resistance provides a solid feel that some users appreciate for both gaming and typing due to the added durability and control. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preference, and the pressure you like in your switches to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more