HMX Macchiato vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the Durock Piano are two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for providing a silky smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who value a refined touch and satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Durock Piano switches are renowned for their unique proprietary material blend, offering a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature that many typists find irresistibly pleasant. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback; while the Macchiato leans towards a crisp and bright auditory experience, the Piano delights those who enjoy a more resonant and enveloping sound. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Durock Piano switches, it becomes evident that both employ distinctive materials that contribute fascinatingly to their overall sound profiles. The Macchiato utilizes a traditional nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its relatively soft composition, allowing it to absorb sound effectively. This absorption results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a pleasurable auditory experience for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Durock Piano employs a proprietary POM blend for its housing, which, while not precisely detailed, is touted for providing a uniquely satisfying and deep sound. The characteristics of each material subtly influence the acoustic feedback that users experience when typing.

One of the critical points of examination is the impact of housing materials on sound profiles. For the Macchiato, the combination of nylon in both the top and bottom housings elicits a duller and rounder sound, offering a consistent auditory experience throughout every keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Piano's use of the POM blend aims to deliver distinct sound qualities that fall within a similar realm of depth but may vary slightly in clarity and resonance due to the inherent properties of POM compared to nylon. Even though the two switches utilize different materials, both are constructed to cushion sound and provide a rich auditory feedback, enabling users to appreciate deeper tonal qualities.

Ultimately, while the HMX Macchiato and Durock Piano incorporate different housing materials—nylon for the former and a proprietary POM blend for the latter—the resulting sound profiles are comparable in their depth and richness. This similarity arises from the design philosophy behind both switches; the two housing types are engineered to absorb and modulate sound in ways that enhance the typing experience. Therefore, users can expect a satisfying auditory output from either switch. The variations in material may influence specific characteristics, but both switches deliver an overall experience marked by fullness and satisfaction.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, as lower weights generally minimize fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Piano lacks an officially listed actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This suggests a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to those who favor the feel of a stronger push when they engage with their keyboard. Therefore, while the Macchiato is definitely the lighter option, providing a gentler touch, the Piano provides a firmer response, catering to users who enjoy a heavier switch. Although some specifications for the Piano remain unknown, the distinct differences in their bottom out forces highlight the contrasting experiences they offer.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this regard. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel distance, resulting in a similar tactile feel during use. Since both switches provide the same travel distance, users can expect comparable performance and key response, allowing for an equally satisfying typing experience regardless of the switch choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, contributing to a more cheerful auditory experience while typing. The Durock Piano switch, on the other hand, offers a deep, creamy sound signature that is noticeably bassy. This deeper tone creates a richer acoustic environment during use, with lower frequency sounds that can be quite satisfying. The contrast between the bright sound of the Macchiato and the bass depth of the Piano highlights the distinct auditory experiences each switch provides, making the choice largely subjective based on personal preference.

When it comes to tactile feel, the HMX Macchiato switch provides an incredibly silky smooth typing experience, which is ideal for those who value a seamless tactile response. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch is noted for its frictionless and silky characteristics, creating a typing experience that minimizes resistance. Both switches emphasize a smooth travel, ensuring a fluid motion from key press to release. While the Macchiato offers a general smoothness, the Pianos enhance this with an effortless and near-invisible friction, potentially appealing to typists who prefer a more gliding sensation.

In conclusion, the HMX Macchiato and Durock Piano switches stand out in their respective sound and feel qualities. While the Macchiato presents a bright auditory experience with a silky tactile feeling, the Piano offers a deeper sound profile accompanied by a frictionless and silky touch. Depending on your personal preference for auditory feedback and typing sensation, either switch can provide a compelling experience, though they do cater to slightly different tastes in sound and tactile response.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the HMX Macchiato and Durock Piano linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and the force needed for actuation. If you enjoy a light touch while typing and prefer a smooth, silky experience accompanied by a bright sound, the HMX Macchiato will likely meet your needs. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for quick, effortless keystrokes that can enhance your typing speed without causing fatigue over extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams and enjoy a deeper, bassy sound profile, the Durock Piano switches will serve you well. Their gliding push feel and creamy acoustics create a rich typing experience that many users appreciate. In essence, select the Macchiato for a light, airy typing experience and the Piano when you desire a heavier switch with a satisfying auditory depth.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more