HMX Macchiato vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique benefits that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Macchiato, created by YG Studio, is renowned for delivering a silky smooth typing experience accompanied by a bright sound profile, perfect for those who value a subtle yet enjoyable auditory feedback. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is celebrated for its resonant and clacky notes, providing a more pronounced acoustic experience that many typists find satisfying. Additionally, the impressive factory lube job on the Strawberry Wine (V2) ensures that each keystroke feels smooth and effortless, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the Macchiato leans towards a refined and gentle touch, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers an engaging and vibrant tactile feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) demonstrate distinct characteristics that significantly influence their typing experience. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder materials. As a result, typing on the Macchiato provides a more muted auditory feedback, contributing to a solid and rounded typing experience that many users appreciate, particularly for those who favor a quieter environment.
In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a Ly top housing, a relatively newer material known for delivering a bright and resonant sound signature. This housing excels at producing pronounced clacks during typing, creating a livelier and more engaging auditory feedback compared to the muted sound of the Macchiato. This difference in materials not only shapes the sound profile but also affects the overall typing experience, making the Strawberry Wine (V2) a more suitable option for users who enjoy a more dynamic and high-pitched acoustic environment.
However, both switches share a commonality in their nylon bottom housings, which contribute a deeper sound and feel to their respective typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing's characteristics ensure that both switches maintain a certain level of fullness and depth, though the overall auditory feedback will still differ due to the contrasting top materials. When typing on either switch, users can expect to feel the impact of the nylon bottom housing, as it significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. This unique dichotomy in housing materials allows discerning users to appreciate the nuances in tactile and acoustic experiences between the two switches while still providing a foundation of sound absorption and resonance from the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch with the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option aimed at providing a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This makes the Strawberry Wine slightly heavier than the Macchiato. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming may gravitate towards the Macchiato, while those seeking a more substantial feel with a slightly stronger push may opt for the Strawberry Wine. Overall, the differences in force between these switches suggest they cater to different typing preferences, with the Macchiato being the better choice for those prioritizing decreased actuation resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, there is a clear distinction to note. The Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference makes the Strawberry Wine the more responsive option, catering to gamers and users who prefer quicker key presses for enhanced performance. In contrast, the Macchiato, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who enjoy a deeper key press. If you prioritize a cushioned feel and enjoy the sensation of a switch traveling further, the Macchiato may be your preferred choice. On the other hand, if responsiveness and speed are paramount, opting for the Strawberry Wine (V2) could yield a more effective typing experience.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 bright and clean auditory experience, designed to appeal to users who appreciate a more nuanced acoustic feedback without being overly loud. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches produce a distinctly clacky and resonant sound when typed on. This clackiness adds a sharp, percussive quality, making each keystroke feel crisp and lively. The high-pitched tones of the Strawberry Wine can create an immersive auditory environment that many typists enjoy, but they may not match the subtle brightness of the Macchiato's sound profile, which is comparatively softer.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato switch is known for providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, although specific details about its characteristics are not provided. Conversely, the Strawberry Wine (V2) excels with its silky smoothness, enhanced further by a meticulous factory lube job that minimizes resistance during typing. This lube application contributes to a refined smoothness, making it ideal for users looking for fluid key presses. While the exact feel of the Macchiato is less defined, the described silky experience of the Strawberry Wine suggests that both switches could cater to enthusiasts who value smoothness in a linear switch.
In conclusion, while the HMX Macchiato and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches serve distinct auditory profiles—with the former leaning towards brightness and the latter offering clackiness—both are designed to provide a smooth typing experience. For those who enjoy the auditory pleasure of a bright sound, the Macchiato is an excellent choice. However, for typists who thrive on pronounced keystroke sounds, the Strawberry Wine (V2) might be more appealing, especially with its silky feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to similar preferences in smoothness, but they vary significantly in their sound delivery, allowing users to choose based on their aesthetic and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Macchiato and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you favor a light feel with a bottom-out force of 50 grams and appreciate a smooth, bright typing experience, the Macchiato is likely your go-to choice. Its silky typing sensation makes it ideal for long typing sessions, especially if you're looking for a quiet operation without overly noticeable sound feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer touch with a bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches may be more to your liking. Their clacky and resonant sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience, making it more vibrant and engaging. Additionally, the exceptional factory lube job ensures silky smooth keystrokes, marrying sound with feel beautifully. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a lighter, smoother experience or a firmer touch paired with a lively sound—both options offer unique benefits suited to different typing preferences.
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