HMX Macchiato vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When navigating the world of mechanical keyboards, switching between the HMX Macchiato and Wuque Studio WS Brown can be a pivotal choice for typists and gamers alike. The HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, caters to those who favor a silky smooth typing experience, delivering a bright auditory profile that enhances each keystroke without feeling heavy. This linear switch is ideal for users who prefer a quiet yet fluid typing experience, making it an excellent choice for both office environments and late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Brown switch skillfully combines tradition and modernity, offering a tactile response with a medium-light actuation force that promotes a comfortable yet engaging typing experience. Its distinctive auditory feedback, thanks to a nylon housing and POM stem, makes it particularly cherished by enthusiasts who seek familiarity paired with innovation. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactile feedback—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Brown both utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components of their switches. This shared choice of material allows for a cohesive sound profile and similar tactile experiences when typing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its softer texture, which contributes to deeper and fuller sound characteristics. Specifically, these switches produce a rounder sound, largely due to nylon's ability to absorb sound better than standard, harder plastics. Consequently, users of both the Macchiato and WS Brown will enjoy a pleasantly dampened auditory experience when typing, enhancing the overall enjoyment of their mechanical keyboards.
Both switches achieve their distinct audible qualities through the use of nylon across the board, resulting in a consistent sound profile. For instance, when typing on either the HMX Macchiato or the WS Brown, the sensation of a fuller sound is noticeable—thanks to the way nylon material significantly dampens the impact noise during key presses. Given that both models have identical housing material, both top and bottom housings will contribute equally to how users perceive sound and feel while typing. Therefore, irrespective of slight variations in switch design or actuation point, the nylon housings ensure that users can expect a similar experience and auditory feedback.
Although the sound characteristics are consistent due to the identical housing materials, it is essential to recognize that differences may arise in overall key feel or switch actuation based on the internal switch mechanisms themselves. While the impact of these differences may not drastically alter the sound profile created by the nylon housings, the feel of each keypress can still vary due to how each model is engineered or tuned. Regardless, the use of nylon in both the HMX Macchiato and WS Brown guarantees a rich auditory experience that emphasizes depth and warmth—a testament to the versatile nature of nylon in sound-enhancing applications.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as lighter, which is beneficial for those who type for extended periods, as it reduces fatigue. In contrast, the WS Brown switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a heavier resistance when fully pressed. Despite the unknown actuation force, the WS Brown’s bottom out force suggests that it may provide a more substantial typing feel, suitable for users who prefer a firmer touch. Overall, the HMX Macchiato is the lighter option, ideal for prolonged use, while the WS Brown offers a heavier experience, appealing to those who appreciate a stronger push.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference means that the Macchiato offers a greater depth when pressed, which some users may find appealing for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers or fast typists looking for quicker response times. While both switches are designed for different preferences, the Macchiato's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, whereas the WS Brown may feel more abrupt. Therefore, if you prefer a deeper and more robust feel, the HMX Macchiato is the better choice, whereas if you lean towards a quicker, more responsive key press, the Wuque Studio WS Brown might be more appealing.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 tone, providing a pleasant auditory cue with each keystroke. This makes it appealing for users who enjoy a clearer, more pronounced sound while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch offers a familiar auditory experience that enthusiasts appreciate. Although it features a medium-light actuation force, enhancing its responsiveness, the sound produced is often more subdued compared to the Macchiato, reflecting its design aimed at balancing comfort and traditional feel. Both switches' sound characteristics, however, can be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato excels in delivering a silky smooth typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This is particularly advantageous during long typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue and enhances overall typing comfort. Conversely, the WS Brown switch introduces a tactile bump that offers a more distinct sensory feedback upon actuation, making it ideal for users who prefer a noticeable response as they type. While both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, their approaches cater to different preferences: one prioritizes smoothness while the other embraces tactile feedback.
In summary, both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch present unique offerings tailored to diverse typing experiences. The Macchiato excels with its bright sound and silky feel, ideal for those who enjoy a smooth, linear typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS Brown provides that cherished tactile feedback alongside its medium-light actuation force and familiar, pleasant sound. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve satisfying keyboard experiences with either switch, whether you lean towards the smoothness of the Macchiato or the tactile comfort of the WS Brown.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you're someone who enjoys a light actuation force, appreciates a silky smooth typing experience, and values a brighter sound profile, then the Macchiato is likely the way to go. This switch is perfect for those who want an effortless and enjoyable typing feel, making it an excellent choice for long writing sessions and gaming where quick key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force that offers a satisfying tactile bump and a more familiar auditory experience, the WS Brown switch would be more suitable for you. Ideal for those who appreciate a balance between comfort and responsiveness, these switches provide a fatigue-free typing experience that can enhance your overall productivity. Ultimately, consider your personal typing style, whether you prioritize a smooth and light touch or a tactile, engaging feedback, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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