HMX Macchiato vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy contenders are the HMX Macchiato and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, both of which embody the characteristics of linear switches but cater to different user preferences. The HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, is celebrated for delivering a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy an expressive audio feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is lauded for its innovative design, featuring a whisper-quiet topping-out sound that contrasts with a clacky bottom-out sound, appealing particularly to users who want a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile pleasure. While both switches offer a smooth feel, the Macchiato leans towards a more vibrant auditory experience, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear emphasizes subtlety with subdued acoustics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your unique typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the auditory experience of typing. The Macchiato utilizes nylon for its top housing, yielding a sound profile characterized by its deeper and fuller tones. This is attributed to the soft nature of nylon, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear employs polycarbonate for its top housing, imparting a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for clearer and more resonant acoustics, enhancing the typing experience, particularly for users who prioritize a brisk, precise keystroke.
When inspecting the bottom housings, both the Macchiato and Semi-Silent Linear utilize nylon, providing a similar foundation in terms of sound characteristics and tactile feedback. Each switch, regardless of its top housing material, benefits from the soft nylon's ability to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience whenever a key is bottomed out. This consistency in bottom housing material means that while the top housing influences the release sound, the foundational experience remains comparable when typing on both switches. Users can expect a smooth response and a notable bass reverberation in the sound profile due to the nylon's absorption properties.
Ultimately, while the top housing may create discernibly different auditory characteristics between the HMX Macchiato and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, the shared nylon material in their bottom housings ensures that some similarities in tactile feedback and overall typing experience persist. The combination of materials demonstrates how varied acoustic properties can coexist within the same switch, allowing users to appreciate different sound dynamics based solely on housing material choices. Thus, while users may enjoy distinct typing profiles due to the top housing variations, the underlying richness and depth imparted by the nylon bottom housing will maintain a sense of familiarity in their overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch present distinct profiles in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato has a notably light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear's bottom out force is measured at 62 grams, which indicates a heavier feel that some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience; however, its actuation force remains unspecified. Consequently, users seeking a lighter switch would gravitate toward the Macchiato, while those who enjoy a firmer push will likely opt for the heavier Semi-Silent Linear. Ultimately, the differences in these switches may cater to varying preferences in typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances that cater to different preferences. With a travel distance of 4 mm, the Macchiato provides a deeper keypress experience that some users may find more satisfying, offering a traditional and hearty depth that can enhance typing comfort. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, which may appeal to gamers or users who seek quicker response times and a more tactile feel. While both switches offer a smooth linear action, the Macchiato will likely deliver a more pronounced sensation during use due to its longer travel distance, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear might feel more abrupt, catering to those who prefer a swift typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key travel and responsiveness.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is noted for its bright sound profile, which may create an uplifting auditory experience while typing. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a more subdued sound, characterized by a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out noise. This means that while the Macchiato can resonate with a livelier character, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a more subtle auditory experience that balances dampened sounds with the presence of a satisfying bottom-out click. Both switches offer different soundscapes, with the Macchiato leaning towards brightness and clarity while the Semi-Silent Linear opts for a nuanced middle ground.
When it comes to feel, both switches showcase qualities aimed at delivering a smooth typing experience. The Macchiato is designed to provide a silky smooth typing sensation, though its specific nuances are not detailed. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing feel that is approachable for all users and a snappy response that enhances typist engagement through its spring design. Additionally, it boasts buttery movement and polished finishes, resulting in a refined keystroke experience. Thus, while the Macchiato focuses on silkiness, the Semi-Silent Linear enriches the texture of the experience with multiple dimensions of feedback and responsive characteristics.
In conclusion, while the HMX Macchiato and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches cater to different sound profiles and tactile characteristics, they both promise smooth typing experiences. The Macchiato thrives on its bright auditory presentation while providing a smooth ride, while the Semi-Silent Linear excels in its balanced sound output and multifaceted feel. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback; however, both switches would provide a satisfying mechanical experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, consider your preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a force of only 50 grams and enjoy a bright sound profile that enhances a silky smooth feel, the Macchiato is an excellent choice. It's tailored for those who appreciate feedback and the lively character that can brighten up your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a more balanced switch, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear might be the better option, especially with its heavier bottom-out force of 62 grams. This switch provides a subdued sound and a mild typing experience, making it suitable for both work and casual use where quiet operation is preferred. The Semi-Silent Linear's semi-silent nature, along with its snappy response, offers a great middle-ground for users who want to minimize distractions while still enjoying a responsive typing feel. Ultimately, your choice should align with your tactile preferences and the ambient noise levels of your workspace or gaming environment.
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