HMX Macchiato vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct choices stand out: the HMX Macchiato and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The HMX Macchiato, designed by YG Studio, is a linear switch that excels in providing a silky smooth typing experience combined with a bright, clacky sound profile. This makes it an ideal pick for typists and gamers who seek speed and fluidity without any tactile resistance, enhancing the overall experience of rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is a tactile switch that delivers a luxurious feel with its deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out, and a sharp tactile bump that offers feedback during typing. Categorized as muted and bassy, the U4Tx RGB caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile sensation while also enjoying quieter operation. Both switches have their unique benefits depending on user preference; the Macchiato shines for smoothness and brightness, while the U4Tx RGB offers refined tactile feedback and a subdued sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, it becomes evident that both utilize nylon and proprietary plastic blends, albeit in different compositions. The HMX Macchiato features a traditional nylon top and bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic nature. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, as the nylon's inherent characteristics dampen the sound more effectively than harder plastics. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB employs a unique proprietary blend often referred to as "boba plastic," which is specifically designed to offer a similarly rich and deep sound profile because of its soft composition. Thus, even though the materials differ technically, both switch types are engineered to achieve comparable auditory results.

The distinction between the two switches becomes clearer when we examine the specific roles of the materials used in their bottom and top housings. Each switch’s bottom housing significantly influences the sound and feel when the switch bottoms out, while the top housing impacts the sound released upon key release. In the Macchiato, both the top and bottom nylon housings combine to create a harmonious sound signature, reinforcing the experience with a consistent acoustic quality. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, featuring its proprietary blend for both top and bottom housings, similarly leverages the softness of its materials to enrich the overall typing experience. This design choice imparting consistency across both housing types likely contributes to a fluid and engaging action, echoing the Macchiato’s sound experience albeit from a different material perspective.

Ultimately, while the HMX Macchiato and Gazzew U4Tx RGB are constructed from different materials, their design philosophies converge at the point of achieving an optimal auditory experience. Both nylon and "boba plastic" contribute to a smoother and more appealing sound profile, allowing users to enjoy a fuller auditory feedback when typing. Despite the differences in composition, this shared focus on sound quality in both the top and bottom housing designs enables users to achieve similar results in tactile and auditory performance, making either choice appealing for keyboard enthusiasts who value sound depth and warmth in their typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force highlight their unique characteristics. The Macchiato switch features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter feel that allows for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has an unknown actuation force but bottom out at a more substantial 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy in terms of feel. This difference suggests that the Gazzew switch may provide a firmer typing experience, catering to those who appreciate a stronger push feel. Therefore, while the Macchiato is the lighter option overall, the heavier U4Tx RGB switch could be preferred by individuals seeking more tactile feedback and resistance when typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx RGB has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The longer travel distance of the Macchiato offers a more substantial feel during key presses, which might appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB, with its shorter travel distance, provides a quicker response time, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking faster actuation. Ultimately, the Macchiato is the longer switch, providing a more traditional depth, while the U4Tx RGB is the shorter option, catering to those who favor speed over depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch presents a bright and clacky profile, offering a crisp and snappy auditory experience with each keystroke. This sharp percussive quality adds a lively character to typing, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch combines a muted sound with a deep "thock" when bottoming out, creating a richer, bassy tonal quality. This switch produces a more subdued audio experience overall, with a focus on minimizing typing noise while still delivering a satisfying resonance that makes each key press feel impactful.

The feel of the Macchiato switch is exceptionally smooth, characterized by its silky texture that enhances the typing experience. It's designed to offer minimal resistance, resulting in a bouncy and feathery sensation when typing, making it perfect for users who engage in lengthy sessions. This gives a lively, almost spring-like feedback that can make typing feel effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB does not have specific descriptors for its feel, but given its refined design and tactile bump, it likely offers a satisfying tactile feedback that appeals to users who enjoy a luxurious typing sensation, though the precise experience remains unknown.

In summary, the HMX Macchiato and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Macchiato's clacky sound and silky, buoyant feel make it ideal for those seeking an engaging typing experience, while the U4Tx RGB’s muted yet rich tones and likely tactile feedback provide a more refined, luxurious alternative. Although both switches cater to different preferences, they each offer unique qualities that can elevate the overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal taste and the kind of experience that a typist or gamer values most.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences for feel, sound, and the type of tasks you plan to engage in. If you value a lighter touch, enjoy a silky and bouncy typing experience, and prefer a clacky, bright sound profile that adds an energetic vibe to your setup, then the Macchiato is the ideal choice for you. It's perfect for extensive typing sessions, whether for work or gaming, as its feathery nature minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you lean toward a more balanced typing feedback and appreciate a tactile bump for added precision, the U4Tx RGB will likely suit you better. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force provides more resistance and control, making it a fantastic option for both productivity and typing accuracy, especially in a quieter environment where a muted but bassy sound is preferred. Depending on your specific needs, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing styles and sound profiles; thus, your decision should align with the tactile and auditory experiences you hope to achieve in your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more