HMX Macchiato vs. Outemu Spring Breeze

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Spring Breeze presents a fascinating contrast in typing experience and sound profile. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is a linear switch known for its silky smooth actuation and feathery lightness, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid and unobstructed typing experience, along with a bright sound profile that adds a touch of auditory pleasure to each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze offers a distinctive clicky experience with its nylon housing and POM stem, producing a deeper sound that sets it apart from other clicky switches. This unique material combination not only enhances the auditory feedback but also contributes to a more engaging typing experience for those who relish audible confirmation with each keypress. Each switch has its unique allure: the Macchiato for its smoothness and subtle sound, and the Spring Breeze for its satisfying tactile response and engaging click. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

Outemu Spring Breeze Clicky

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Spring Breeze both utilize nylon for their switch housings, consisting of a nylon top and bottom housing. This shared material choice positions both switches to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows the switches to absorb sound better than switches made from harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a muted, rounder acoustic experience with each keystroke on both the Macchiato and the Spring Breeze. The similarities in housing material ensure that the audio characteristics, especially the bottom-out sound and the resonance when releasing a key, will reflect comparable tonal qualities across both switches.

In examining the acoustic performance, the nylon top and bottom housings of both switches contribute to a unified sound experience. For instance, the top housing primarily influences the sound once a key is released, while the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when a key is pressed. Since both switches use nylon in both their top and bottom housings, users can expect that the overall auditory feedback will remain consistent with the unique sound signature attributed to nylon. This consistency ensures that typists will encounter a similar acoustic environment, making it easier to switch between the two without adjusting to significantly different sound profiles.

Despite the fact that the HMX Macchiato and Outemu Spring Breeze share identical housing materials, it’s important to recognize that variations in design and manufacturing could result in subtle differences in typing feel. However, the fundamental characteristics of nylon will prevail, leading to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback. This makes both the Macchiato and the Spring Breeze excellent choices for users looking for durable yet acoustically pleasing switches, reinforcing the notion that the choice of housing material plays a critical role in defining the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Spring Breeze has a slightly lower actuation force at 40 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. As a result, the Macchiato is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Spring Breeze offers a more pronounced resistance, which may appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Macchiato is the lighter option in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it easier on the fingers for longer periods, whereas the Spring Breeze provides a bit more heft.

Travel distance

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that users will experience similar keypress feedback and responsiveness when using either switch. This equal travel distance implies that both switches will require the same amount of force to reach the actuation point, providing a consistent feel for typists and gamers alike. Since both switches share this travel distance, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of key travel, enhancing versatility in keyboard choices without sacrificing performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato switch has a clacky character, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. Its bright and percussive nature adds an engaging layer to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and dynamic. This is particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more active sound profile while typing, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch creates a deeper sound due to its unique material combination of nylon housing and a POM stem. This gives it a distinctive auditory quality compared to traditional clicky switches, resulting in a sound that may not be as sharp as the Macchiato but offers its own satisfying tonal characteristics.

In terms of feel, the Macchiato is exceptional in providing a silky smooth typing experience, which minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness is complemented by a bouncy sensation that provides a spring-like feedback, enhancing the overall typing engagement. Additionally, its feathery nature means it requires minimal exertion, making it an ideal choice for extended typing sessions where comfort is key. The Spring Breeze switch lacks detailed descriptions of its feel, but its specialized material choices suggest it may not deliver the same level of smoothness or feedback that the Macchiato provides. Hence, users looking for a lively, tactile experience may find the Macchiato preferable.

In conclusion, both the HMX Macchiato and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Macchiato excels in providing a bright, clacky sound and a silky, bouncy feel, the Spring Breeze offers a deeper auditory profile that many may appreciate, albeit with less clarity in its tactile feedback description. Ultimately, if sound plays a significant role in your typing enjoyment, the Macchiato may be the superior choice, while the Spring Breeze could appeal to those interested in exploring different auditory experiences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and silky typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Macchiato is an excellent option, particularly if you enjoy typing for extended periods without feeling fatigued, thanks to its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams. This switch is particularly suitable for those who appreciate a bouncy, feathery feel that enhances comfort during longer sessions, whether for gaming, writing, or professional work. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky feedback that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing, and you appreciate a slightly deeper sound due to its nylon housing and POM stem, the Outemu Spring Breeze may cater to your needs. With a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, it strikes a balance between tactile feedback and ease of use, making it ideal for users who enjoy both the satisfaction of a pronounced click and a more assertive feel while typing. By assessing these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Spring Breeze Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more