HMX Macchiato vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the SP-Star Polaris Purple represent two distinct yet appealing options tailored to different typing preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is lauded for its silky smooth operation and bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a seamless and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple offers a pronounced tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating tactile feedback, complemented by a snappy sound profile, catering to those who enjoy a more engaging and attentive typing experience. While the Macchiato excels in providing an uninterrupted flow, the Polaris Purple invites users to relish in the tactile sensations of their keystrokes. Choosing between these switches ultimately hinges on personal preference, but the nuances extend beyond mere surface characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it becomes evident that each switch employs a distinct material for its top and bottom housings, leading to contrasting sound profiles. The Macchiato's use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings results in a deeper, fuller sound that emphasizes a rounder auditory experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, adequately absorbs sound, creating a unique typing experience characterized by its warm tones. In contrast, the Polaris Purple employs polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, which leads to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate ensures that the acoustics produce a crisper and higher-pitched feedback, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory response.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the differences in material become even more pronounced. The translucent nature of the polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. Conversely, the opaque nature of nylon used in the Macchiato does not allow for similar lighting effects, but the material's ability to absorb sound offers a more muted typing experience that some users may prefer for a quieter environment. Therefore, despite both switches being designed for typing, the choice in material plays a crucial role in the overall user experience and functionality of the keyboards.
However, it is essential to recognize that the combination of top and bottom housings in both switches leads to a divergence in sound quality during operation. While the Macchiato's all-nylon construction results in a cohesive deep sound profile, producing a duller but rounder experience, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate materials deliver a clearer and crisper auditory feedback. Nonetheless, if one were to take the approach of mixing and matching components with similar materials in mind, you could achieve a balanced sound profile by considering the interplay of each housing's attributes. The way sound is absorbed or reflected by each material can often lead to pleasantly surprising results—the distinct tonal qualities of nylon could be utilized to soften the sharper sounds from polycarbonate, thus creating a hybrid experience tailored to the user's typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there is a clear difference in their 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 ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Polaris Purple lacks a specified actuation force, but its bottom out force of 67 grams indicates a heavier resistance. This suggests that the Polaris Purple offers a more substantial feel, which some users may prefer for enhanced typing feedback. Therefore, while the Macchiato is the lighter option overall, the Polaris Purple's heavier bottoming out experience caters to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. If both actuation forces were known, it would provide a more direct comparison, but currently, the Polaris Purple's unknown actuation force prevents a full analysis of the two switches.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience the same keypress distance when pressing down on either switch, resulting in similar tactile feedback and overall feel during typing or gaming. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they can be expected to provide comparable performance in terms of actuation and keystroke response. Whether one prefers the linear nature of the Macchiato or the tactile feedback of the Polaris Purple, the travel distance remains a constant factor, ensuring a uniform experience in this regard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
The SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When considering the sound characteristics, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is renowned for its bright sound profile, which contributes to an engaging typing experience. This bright sound can often enhance the overall enjoyment of typing, especially for those who favor a lively auditory feedback. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch has a more neutral sound profile. This means it produces a moderate sound level that balances well in various environments, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users alike. While the Macchiato offers a more vibrant auditory experience, the Polaris Purple is designed to blend seamlessly into any setting, achieving a pleasant yet unobtrusive sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato switch is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience. This linear switch allows for uninterrupted travel, making it ideal for those who favor a consistent keypress without tactile interruptions. Conversely, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides an exhilarating tactile experience due to its prominent bump. Users will appreciate the physical feedback with each keystroke, offering a sense of interaction that many typists find satisfying. Additionally, the Polaris Purple is described as mild and polished, indicating a more gentle typing experience coupled with reduced friction and a smooth finish. This combination makes the Polaris Purple approachable for a wide range of users, enhancing its versatility.
Ultimately, both the HMX Macchiato and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Macchiato's bright sound combined with its smooth linear action appeals to those who desire an engaging and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's snappy sound and pronounced tactile feedback provide a more pronounced interaction with each keystroke. Both switches deliver satisfactory results, but your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a smooth and lively typing experience or a tactile and responsive one.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you gravitate towards a lighter, smoother typing experience that emphasizes a bright sound profile, the Macchiato would serve you well, especially for prolonged typing sessions or gaming where quick, effortless key presses enhance performance. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly inviting for those who prefer a softer touch. However, if you find joy in the tactile feedback that helps you feel each key press distinctly, the Polaris Purple is your go-to option. Its 67-gram actuation force delivers a more substantial and satisfying tactile bump that many typists find exhilarating, making it ideal for writing and activities where you seek confirmation of key presses. Ultimately, consider whether you value a smooth, quiet experience or a more defined, tactile interaction, as this will guide you toward the switch that best aligns with your mechanical keyboard journey.
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