HMX Macchiato vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch choice can significantly affect your typing experience, and two popular linear switches that stand out are the HMX Macchiato and the Huano Strawberry Latte. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is renowned for delivering a mesmerizingly silky smooth typing experience and a bright sound profile that enhances the tactile joy of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its super smooth operation, thanks to the use of the latest molds from Huano, coupled with a balanced sound profile that strikes the right chord—neither too quiet nor overly resonant. Both switches cater to users looking for linear options, but their distinct sound and feel can sway one's preference. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean towards the bright, striking characteristics of the Macchiato or the balanced, harmonious vibe of the Strawberry Latte. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Huano Strawberry Latte, significant differences emerge between them, particularly with the choice of top housing. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This quality allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, producing a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is not only smooth and durable but also offers a distinct clacky sound profile thanks to its lower coefficient of friction. Ultimately, while both materials serve as effective switch housings, the nylon of the Macchiato leans into a warmer sound, while the POK of the Strawberry Latte leans into a crisper, more pronounced auditory experience.
Turning to the bottom housings, both the HMX Macchiato and the Huano Strawberry Latte utilize nylon. This similarity in material choice means that both switches will elicit the same acoustic properties when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon's ability to absorb sound translates to a softer auditory profile for both switches when pressed all the way down. As such, when comparing the bottom housing experience between the two, users will find consistency in performance, leading to a fuller, more muted sound when bottoming out the keypresses.
In summary, while the Macchiato and Strawberry Latte differ significantly in the material used for their top housings—nylon versus POK—their shared nylon bottom housing creates a cohesive trait in terms of acoustic performance. The distinct characteristics of the housings combine to offer two uniquely appealing experiences, depending on the user's preference for sound profile and tactile sensation. Ultimately, the performance of these switches highlights how the interplay between materials can shape the overall typing experience, with users likely finding similar fundamental qualities despite differences in tactile feedback and sound in the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Strawberry Latte is easier to press down and requires less force to actuate, making it ideal for extended typing sessions where minimal effort is preferred. Conversely, the Macchiato provides a slightly heavier feel, which could appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience. Overall, both switches are considered light, but the Strawberry Latte is the lighter option, catering to users seeking comfort and ease during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, we observe that the Macchiato has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Latte offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Macchiato provides a more substantial press, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper feel when typing or gaming, as it offers a more traditional travel distance. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte's shorter travel distance aligns with the growing trend among gamers who favor quicker response times, as it allows for faster key presses. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Huano Strawberry Latte would be the better choice, while the HMX Macchiato caters to users who prefer a more pronounced engagement with their keys.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 characterized by its bright sound profile, offering a crisp auditory feedback that many users find appealing for both typing and gaming. This brightness contributes to a lively experience, enhancing the overall satisfaction of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch presents a more balanced sound profile that falls between being quiet and overly resonant. This makes it versatile for various environments, striking a harmonious balance that can appeal to users who prefer a subtler auditory experience without sacrificing the joy of a tactile keystroke.
Regarding feel, the HMX Macchiato is known for delivering a silky smooth typing experience, which many users appreciate as it allows for effortless key presses and minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This smoothness can enhance the overall enjoyment of the switch, making it a great choice for those who value a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte switch also boasts a super smooth operation, leveraging the latest molds from Huano to provide an equally enjoyable experience. This means that both switches excel in providing a consistently smooth keystroke, catering to users who prioritize ease of movement in their typing.
Considering all of this information, both the HMX Macchiato and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches offer compelling qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a bright, lively sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Macchiato may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more balanced sound that still maintains a high level of smoothness, the Strawberry Latte excels as a versatile option. Ultimately, either switch will provide an enjoyable typing experience, and the choice will depend on individual preference regarding sound and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the specific experiences you're seeking. If you value a silky smooth typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Macchiato's characteristics may appeal to you. Its slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams provides a bit more resistance, which can be beneficial for those who desire tactile feedback while typing, allowing for precise keystrokes. This may be particularly suitable if you do a lot of typing or want to minimize accidental key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams paired with a balanced sound profile that isn’t too quiet or overwhelmingly resonant, the Strawberry Latte is an excellent choice. Its super smooth feel, derived from the latest molds, makes it ideal for rapid typing or gaming sessions where speed is crucial. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style—whether you're drawn to the Macchiato’s smoother, brighter experience or the Strawberry Latte’s smoothness coupled with a more balanced acoustic presence.
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