HMX Macchiato vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Jade stand out, each offering distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its exceptionally silky smooth typing experience, enhanced by its bright sound profile that provides a vibrant feedback echoing a delightful clack with each keystroke. It is characterized by its unique blend of clacky, silky, bouncy, and feathery traits, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a lively and tactile feel in their typing. In contrast, the WS Jade boasts a distinctive metallic insert in its stem base, resulting in a resonant and bright sound that captivates users while typing. Additionally, its light diffuser creates an enchanting RGB experience, making it visually stunning too. With a typing sensation described as creamy and smooth, combined with a rock-solid bottom-out feel, the WS Jade appeals to those who prioritize both aesthetics and a substantial typing feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that truly suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it becomes clear that each switch utilizes a different top housing material—nylon for the Macchiato and POM for the Jade. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a dulled, rounder tone. In contrast, POM (polyoxymethylene) is renowned for its unique audio characteristics, creating a pleasing sound that remains on the deeper end of the spectrum but with a more muted quality. This difference in top housing materials indicates that users may experience variations in sound signature when typing, with the Macchiato likely providing a more resonant experience compared to the refined yet restrained tones of the WS Jade.
Both the HMX Macchiato and WS Jade feature nylon and POM respectively in their bottom housings as well, maintaining a clear distinction between both switch types. The nylon bottom housing of the Macchiato continues to contribute to a fuller sound experience when bottomed out, as it similarly absorbs sound and minimizes sharp impacts. The WS Jade, utilizing its POM bottom housing, also aims to achieve a more muted sound experience, presenting a unique auditory profile. Though both bottom housings incentivize a deeper sound, the variations in material could lead to differences in tactile feedback during active typing; with the nylon likely providing a softer bottom-out feel, while the POM may yield a slightly crisper response.
Interestingly, regardless of the dissimilar materials, both switches can produce similar results in terms of overall acoustic experience. The qualities of each housing material are essentially split between the top and bottom, meaning that while each has its unique sound profile, they both cumulatively contribute to an enjoyable typing environment. Users of the Macchiato will experience the rounded, absorbing qualities of nylon in both the top and bottom housings, while Jade users will appreciate the crisp, clean sounds of POM. In either case, the fundamental design allows for a hybrid of sound experiences that cater to varied preferences, suggesting that both options can appeal to typists seeking distinct but enjoyable auditory responses.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Jade requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a firmer feel. As a result, while the Macchiato is the lighter switch, the WS Jade offers a medium-weight option for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to varied user preferences regarding typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we see a clear distinction: the Macchiato has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Jade measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Macchiato the longer option, offering a more traditional depth that some users might find more satisfying. In contrast, the WS Jade’s 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who prefer a shorter, snappier response, often favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation. Thus, users seeking a more responsive feel may gravitate towards the WS Jade, while those who appreciate a fuller depth might opt for the HMX Macchiato.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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
In terms of sound, both the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches feature a clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive. However, the WS Jade distinguishes itself with an additional resonant quality due to its metallic insert, which results in a higher-pitched and more immersive sound. While both switches will create a lively auditory atmosphere that can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choice, the WS Jade’s metallic edge provides a unique audio characteristic that may appeal to those seeking a richer soundscape.
When assessing the feel of these switches, both the Macchiato and WS Jade are celebrated for their silky smoothness, ensuring a comfortable typing experience that reduces resistance during keypresses. The Macchiato, however, adds an element of bounciness, providing a rebound effect that can enhance the typing experience with a lively, spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the WS Jade leans towards a creamy feel, which imparts a buttery, effortless sensation when typing. This smoothness may be further enhanced by factory lubrication and special materials, making it exceptionally pleasurable for long typing sessions.
Considering all aspects, the HMX Macchiato and WS Jade switches each offer a unique experience, though they share similarities in sound and silky feel. The Macchiato provides a bouncy quality that some users may prefer, while the WS Jade captivates with its resonant character and creamy texture. Ultimately, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for smooth and engaging typing experiences, making them excellent choices depending on whether one prioritizes a lively sound or a rich auditory quality.
Conclusion
To conclude, when you’re considering the HMX Macchiato linear switch versus the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, your choice should largely depend on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound characteristics. If you favor a lighter actuation force and enjoy a silky smooth typing sensation with a delightfully clacky sound profile, the HMX Macchiato is your best bet. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue while providing an engaging auditory experience. However, if you’re drawn to a richer sound with a slight metallic resonance and prefer a slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 60 grams, the WS Jade would be the better option. Its creamy texture and additional tactile feedback cater to those who appreciate a robust typing experience with an enchanting RGB display that enhances your setup visually. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight and airy typing experience with the Macchiato, or a sturdier, more immersive option with the WS Jade.
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