HMX Macchiato vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Macchiato and the Durock T1 often comes down to personal preference and typing style. The HMX Macchiato, created by YG Studio, is celebrated for providing a silky smooth typing experience coupled with a bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a seamless and enjoyable keystroke. In contrast, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying medium bump during typing, evoking a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window—perfect for those who value feedback and subtle auditory cues in their typing experience. While the Macchiato is great for those who prioritize fluidity and brightness, the T1 caters to individuals who prefer tactile feedback and a more nuanced acoustic response. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Macchiato and Durock T1 switches, a significant distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a more muted auditory experience compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Durock T1 uses polycarbonate for its top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate not only contributes to a clearer auditory feedback but also enhances the visual appeal when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucence. Thus, when it comes to sound quality during key releases, the Macchiato produces a duller sound while the T1 delivers a crisper auditory response.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing materials, as both the Macchiato and T1 utilize nylon for this component. This consistency means that they will both exhibit the same characteristics—specifically, a deeper and fuller sound profile during key presses. Nylon’s sound-absorbing qualities help create a softer bottom-out feel that can enhance the typing experience, regardless of the contrasting top housing materials. Therefore, when users type on either switch, the feel and sound produced by the bottom housing will align closely, making both options feel familiar to typists who prefer this soft touch.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings results in a unique acoustic profile for each switch. The Macchiato's nylon top and bottom should appeal to those seeking a muted auditory experience, while the T1 offers a blend of nylon bottom housing with a more vibrant polycarbonate top. In practice, this means that while the bottom-out experience remains consistent across both switches, the audible characteristics during key release will noticeably differ. Thus, users can choose based on their preference for sound—whether a bolder, crisper profile or a softer, more subdued experience is desired.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while its bottom out force of 50 grams also remains on the lighter side. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch is still a bit heavier, as it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, but the actuation force is unknown in this case. This suggests that the T1 may require a more substantial pressure for activation, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Therefore, with the Macchiato being the lighter switch and the T1 leaning towards the heavier end, users must note their own preferences in actuation feel when selecting between these options.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in comparable keypress feel and responsiveness. Since both switches require the same amount of travel from top to bottom, users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and tactile feedback. This equal travel distance allows users to experience a consistent typing sensation regardless of which switch they choose to use.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato switch is known for its bright sound profile, which tends to create a lively auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch produces a low-pitched, gentle sound reminiscent of raindrops against a window—a delightful, mellow tone that many users find calming and suitable for various environments. While the Macchiato's brightness may stand out more in a quiet setting, the T1's neutral sound profile makes it versatile enough for both home and office use, allowing users to enjoy a pleasant auditory atmosphere irrespective of their workspace.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato switch is designed for a silky smooth typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across each key. The Durock T1, on the other hand, delivers a tactile feel characterized by a stepped response. This switch provides a distinctly mellow tactile bump, allowing for a sensation that feels nuanced rather than overwhelming. Additionally, the T1 is described as accented, striking a balance of tactility without feeling scratchy. This medium tactile feedback contributes to a polished typing experience, making them both comfortable and satisfying for prolonged use.
Overall, the HMX Macchiato and Durock T1 switches cater to different preferences, yet they both offer enjoyable typing experiences. The Macchiato's bright sound and smooth feel provide a lively yet sophisticated alternative for those seeking a seamless ride with each keystroke. Conversely, the T1’s low-pitched sound and layered tactile response create a more relaxed environment for typing. Depending on your priorities—whether it’s sound, feel, or both—you can choose a switch that suits your personal style, knowing that both options will yield satisfying results in their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a lighter keystroke and enjoy a silky smooth typing experience, the Macchiato is likely the better fit for you, particularly if you appreciate a bright sound profile that enhances your overall typing experience. It's a great choice for prolonged typing sessions since the lower bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a medium-heavy feel, you'll find the T1 tactile switch appealing. Its 67-gram bottom-out force and well-defined tactile bump provide a satisfying feedback during typing, which can help improve your accuracy. The T1 also offers a unique sound reminiscent of rain, which may enhance the ambiance of your workspace. In essence, prioritize the Macchiato for smoothness and lightness, while gravitating towards the T1 for a tactile and more pronounced keyboard experience.
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