HMX Macchiato vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can be a game-changer for your typing experience. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is a linear switch that excels in delivering a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch that showcases gentle tactility, allowing for smooth actuation paired with a satisfying pop that many find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. The Violet's neutral sound signature adds to its charm, providing a balanced experience that doesn't overwhelm the senses. While the Macchiato is ideal for those seeking linear perfection and minimal resistance, the Violet caters to those who appreciate a tactile feedback without being overly loud. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and Jerrzi Violet utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which results in different auditory experiences when typing. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively, thus creating a rounded and muted auditory experience. In sharp contrast, the Violet employs a polycarbonate top housing, delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness allows for clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer an elevated auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Violet, particularly when RGB lighting is employed, as the light can pass through seamlessly.
Both the Macchiato and Violet feature nylon for their bottom housings, which ensures that they share a common aspect in terms of sound profile during key presses. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, as it too absorbs sound waves effectively. This ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistently rich across both switches despite the different top housing materials. When typing on either switch, users will experience this depth in sound, highlighting the effectiveness of nylon in providing resonance at the base of their key switches.
In conclusion, while the HMX Macchiato and Jerrzi Violet differ significantly in their top housing materials—nylon vs. polycarbonate—their shared nylon bottom housing helps create a balanced typing experience. The contrasting top materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different auditory preferences, while the nylon base ensures a consistent depth and richness in the bottom-out sound. Therefore, typists can choose between these two switches based on their desired acoustic feedback, knowing that both will deliver a satisfying sound experience at their core.
Weight
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch present a contrast in their actuation forces, with the Macchiato requiring 42 grams to actuate and the Violet necessitating a slightly heavier 45 grams. This difference indicates that the Macchiato is the lighter option, which may appeal to those who prioritize comfort during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Jerrzi Violet switch is unspecified, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the Macchiato's bottom out force of 50 grams. Therefore, while both switches excel in their unique ways, the Macchiato offers a lighter actuation and a defined bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch, whereas the Violet may attract those who prefer a firmer typing experience, although more information is needed to fully assess its performance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, the Macchiato boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Violet has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Macchiato offers a more traditional and deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying for a tactile feel. On the other hand, the Violet's shorter travel distance caters to those who prefer faster responses, making it potentially advantageous for gamers or individuals seeking quick keystrokes. While both switches each have their appeal based on personal preference, the Macchiato's 4 mm travel distance is the longer option, providing a heartier depth compared to the Violet's 3.7 mm.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 offers a bright sound profile, characteristic of its design aimed at providing a lively auditory experience for users. This may evoke a sense of excitement and engagement during typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch presents a neutral sound signature, which means it produces a moderate sound that's versatile enough for various environments. This quality makes the Violet ideal for both professional and home settings, allowing users to type without drawing too much attention. While the Macchiato will appeal to those who enjoy a more vibrant sound, the Violet caters to individuals seeking a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Macchiato is recognized for its silky smooth typing experience, delivering an exceptionally fluid keystroke without any tactile interruption. This smoothness can contribute to a feeling of speed and efficiency while typing. Conversely, the Jerrzi Violet switch is classified as a gentle tactile switch, featuring a stepped design that provides a noticeable but mild tactile feedback during actuation. This dual-stage feel allows users to experience both pre-travel and post-travel engagement, creating a pleasant typing rhythm without being overwhelming. While the Macchiato emphasizes fluidity, the Violet focuses on a balanced tactile experience, appealing to different preferences in typing sensations.
Combining the information on sound and feel, both the HMX Macchiato and Jerrzi Violet switches present distinct yet compelling characteristics tailored to varied typing preferences. The Macchiato is perfect for enthusiasts who prioritize a bright sound and smooth actuation, bringing excitement to each keystroke. In contrast, the Violet offers a mild yet enjoyable tactile experience with a neutral sound, making it a great choice for those who favor versatility across different settings. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to individual needs: if you prefer a lively auditory presence with a silky feel, the Macchiato is your best bet, while those who enjoy subtle tactile feedback and a balanced sound may find the Violet more suitable.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and what you value most in a keyboard experience. If you’re someone who enjoys a lightweight feel—a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile—the Macchiato switch may be the better fit for you. Its 50 grams of bottom-out force allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming scenarios where speed is essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile sensation with a pleasing bump during each keypress, the Jerrzi Violet could be your preferred choice. With its gentle tactile feedback and neutral sound that fits seamlessly into both home and office settings, the Violet switch is great for those who enjoy a more balanced typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize speed and smoothness in your keystrokes, or if you prefer a tactile response that provides satisfying feedback with each press.
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