HMX Macchiato vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and the Jwick Splash Brothers present two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, characterized by a clacky, bouncy feel and a bright sound profile that adds an engaging auditory dimension to your keystrokes. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers, inspired by the dynamic duo of basketball legends, offer a unique "speed" design with a shorter activation point and a long pole stem that contributes to a mild yet snappy typing sensation, accompanied by a creamy and polished sound signature. While both switches provide a bouncy feel sought after by many users, the choice between the two often hinges on whether you prefer the vibrant acoustics of the Macchiato or the refined touch and speed of the Splash Brothers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and Jwick Splash Brothers exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter using polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Macchiato produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, influenced by the softness of the plastic that aids in sound absorption. This characteristic allows for a more resonant typing experience that feels more subdued. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers is known for generating a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who favor a more lively and aggressive auditory experience. Thus, when comparing these two housing materials, it becomes clear that the Macchiato is designed for those who appreciate warmth in sound, while the Splash Brothers appeals to those who enjoy a more vibrant and crisp auditory feedback.
Interestingly, both the Macchiato and the Splash Brothers feature nylon for their bottom housings, creating a striking similarity in their tactile feedback. The shared nylon material in both switches ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, regardless of the differences presented by the top housings. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches offer a consistent experience in that regard. When you press down on either switch, the qualities imparted by the nylon bottom result in a smooth and rounded feel. This commonality in material means that while the top sound profiles might differ significantly, the foundation of the typing experience remains linked through the nylon bottom housing.
Ultimately, the contrasting sound profiles brought forth by the HMX Macchiato and the Jwick Splash Brothers can create varied experiences for typists, despite their similarities in bottom housing material. The wide variance in the top housing materials directly affects the sound produced when the key is released, while the nylon bottom helps maintain a consistent tactile experience throughout the action of key presses. This combination allows both switches to be distinct not only in auditory feedback but also in overall user sensation. Despite their differences, users can expect a familiar, comfortable bottoming experience across both options, thereby appealing to a diverse range of typing preferences depending on whether one seeks depth and warmth or clarity and brightness in their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we see some interesting nuances in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato has a known actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, both of which classify it as a light switch. In contrast, the Splash Brothers has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is also light. This creates some ambiguity in terms of direct comparison for actuation; however, if we assume the actuation force is similar to the Macchiato, users can expect a comparable typing experience. In terms of weight, the Macchiato is lighter due to its specified actuation force. Therefore, for those looking for a keyboard that provides a gentler touch and allows for longer typing or gaming sessions, the Macchiato may be the more suitable option. Meanwhile, the Splash Brothers could still appeal to users if it offers a similar actuation feel despite the unknown value. Overall, both switches cater to users who favor a lighter typing experience, though the Macchiato has a definitive edge in terms of specified actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we observe a clear difference. The Macchiato boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which is closer to the traditional standard and offers a more pronounced key press experience. In contrast, the Splash Brothers features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker actuation for faster response times, such as gamers. While the shorter distance of the Splash Brothers may feel more responsive, some users might find it too abrupt compared to the Macchiato's deeper travel. Thus, if you value a more substantial key press, the Macchiato is the preferable choice, making it the longer of the two. Conversely, if responsiveness is your priority, the Splash Brothers' shorter travel distance may be more suitable.
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 Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Macchiato linear switch is characterized by a clacky quality, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience. This bright and crisp sound can enhance the satisfaction of typing, creating an engaging atmosphere for both the user and anyone nearby. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature. The moderate sound levels make it a versatile option that fits seamlessly into various environments, whether at work or home. Overall, while the Macchiato is more audibly striking, the Splash Brothers present a balanced alternative that may appeal to those seeking a quieter experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Macchiato excels with its silky, bouncy, and feathery characteristics. The silky texture ensures an exceptionally smooth typing experience, while the bouncy feedback provides a spring-like sensation that enhances overall engagement with the keys. Additionally, the feathery nature of the switch makes it particularly comfortable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue. The Jwick Splash Brothers, on the other hand, emphasize a mild and polished feel. They are snappy and bouncy, giving users responsive feedback that contributes to an energized typing experience. While both switches boast a bouncy quality, the Macchiato leans more towards luxurious comfort with its feathery touch, whereas the Splash Brothers focus on creating a balanced, approachable feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Macchiato and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches both offer unique attributes suited to different user preferences. The Macchiato shines with its clacky sound, silky smoothness, and enhanced comfort, making it ideal for those who appreciate a lively and engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the Splash Brothers provide a neutral sound and a balanced feel that caters to a broader audience, making them versatile for various usage scenarios. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but each switch presents a quality experience in its own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch should largely depend on your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you find joy in a smooth, silky typing experience and appreciate a brighter, clacky sound profile, the HMX Macchiato will likely be more suited to your tastes. Its light actuation force and feathery feel make it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, whether for work, school, or casual gaming, especially if you like a lively feedback with a bit of bounce. Conversely, if you're after a more versatile switch that caters to both casual and focused environments, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch may be the better option. Its moderate sound profile and snappy responsiveness can enhance your productivity without overwhelming your workspace with noise, making it suitable for shared spaces. Plus, the shorter activation distance and polished sensation provide a dynamic typing experience that can keep up with fast-paced gaming or intensive typing tasks. Ultimately, consider your environment and how you plan to use your keyboard to guide your decision, as both switches offer unique features that cater to different styles and needs.
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