HMX Macchiato vs. Dareu Snow

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the Dareu Snow offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, appealing to those who seek a fluid yet tactile feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow distinguishes itself with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, providing a deeper sound signature that resonates with the user, categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy.' Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference—whether you prioritize a bright acoustical feedback or a fuller, deeper sound experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

Dareu Snow Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Dareu Snow, the differences in their top housings stand out prominently. The Macchiato's top housing is constructed from nylon, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic helps to create a quieter keypress, which many typists appreciate for its more muted acoustics. In contrast, the Snow employs a POK top housing, characterized by its exceptionally smooth surface due to a higher coefficient of friction. The POK material excels in providing a more responsive and clacky typing experience, which can be firmer and sharper in sound compared to the Macchiato's buttery softness. As a result, while both materials serve distinct preferences, the choices yield contrasting auditory and tactile experiences when typing.

When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Macchiato and the Snow utilize nylon, ensuring that their sound profiles will offer a similar depth and softness courtesy of this classic switch housing material. Here, the use of nylon becomes advantageous as it maintains a uniformity in acoustic properties, contributing to a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out. As both models implement nylon for their bottom housings, the consistent material amplifies this softer acoustic quality across both keyboards. Thus, while the top housings differ in their contributions to sound and feedback, the bottom housings unify the tactile experience, creating a harmonious feel during use.

Overall, the combination of materials in the HMX Macchiato and the Dareu Snow introduces unique typing characteristics that appeal to different user preferences. While the Macchiato’s nylon top offers warmth and sonic mutedness, the Snow’s POK top brings a smoother and more vibrant auditory experience. However, both keyboards provide a soft tactile response on the bottom due to their shared use of nylon, facilitating a deeper sound profile that aids in user comfort. Therefore, despite the differing top housing materials, those looking for a similar sound experience can find enjoyment across both models thanks to the cohesion provided by their nylon bottom housings.

Weight

The HMX Macchiato linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a higher actuation force of 50 grams. This difference makes the Macchiato more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue, while the Snow's medium actuation force may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel during use. Additionally, the Macchiato's bottom out force of 50 grams is also lighter than the Snow's bottom out force of 60 grams. As a result, users of the Macchiato can expect a gentler experience both in actuation and bottoming out, while the Snow offers a firmer response overall. In summary, if lighter switches are preferred for extended use, the HMX Macchiato would be the ideal choice, whereas users looking for a more robust typing experience might gravitate toward the Dareu Snow.

Travel distance

The HMX Macchiato linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference indicates that the Macchiato offers a more pronounced keypress experience, which some users might find more satisfying due to its deeper interaction. On the other hand, the Snow's shorter travel distance caters to the preferences of gamers looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a hearty depth and a more traditional feel, the Macchiato would be the better choice, whereas if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Snow would suit you best.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is known for its bright sound profile. This brightness can provide a pleasant auditory experience, particularly for typists who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch boasts a deeper sound signature, characterized by a thocky quality that delivers a satisfying deep "thud" when pressed, alongside a low-pitched tone that offers a mellow and rich auditory feedback. This sound profile can resonate well with users looking for a more subdued and bass-heavy typing experience, making the Snow switch a strong choice for those who prefer a more acoustic presence.

When it comes to feel, the Macchiato is designed for a silky smooth typing experience, known for its seamless key engagement and effortless action. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and comfort over long periods. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch is bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively and engaging aspect to the typing experience. This bounciness can instill a sense of energetic responsiveness, making each keystroke feel more dynamic and engaging.

In conclusion, while both the HMX Macchiato and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique audio and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Macchiato's bright sound and smooth feel may appeal to those who prioritize a crisp and fluid typing sensation, whereas the Snow's thocky sound and bouncy feedback could satisfy users seeking a deeper, richer auditory experience combined with a lively key response. Therefore, the choice between them will largely depend on individual priorities regarding sound and feel, as each switch provides its distinct character while ensuring a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a silky smooth typing experience paired with a bright sound profile, the Macchiato is an excellent choice. Its lower bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, especially if you enjoy a less fatiguing feel under your fingers. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more robust typing experience, you might gravitate towards the Dareu Snow switch. With a slightly firmer bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a bouncier response and a deeper, thocky sound that many find satisfying, especially in a home or work environment where you want to avoid any distracting sounds. Ultimately, your choice should align with your desired tactile feedback and acoustic profile—seek the Macchiato for a light, bright feel, and the Snow switch for a more substantial, low-pitched experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Snow Linear

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

Learn more