HMX Macchiato vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often boil down to tactile feedback and sound profile. The HMX Macchiato linear switch, designed by YG Studio, is celebrated for its impossibly smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, catering to those who appreciate a quieter yet seamless keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch combines smooth operation with a snappy, perceptible tactile bump, providing satisfying feedback while maintaining a neutral sound signature. This can be particularly appealing for users who desire a bit more engagement with each keystroke without overwhelming noise. While both switches offer unique advantages—smoothness for the Macchiato and tactile feedback for the WS Light—each suits different typing preferences and environments. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile presents a striking contrast, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, a material renowned for its softer properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This acoustic characteristic is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, which results in a more rounded auditory experience upon key release. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency, yielding a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials distinctly influences the auditory feedback experienced by users; while the nylon top of the Macchiato generates a warm, muted tone, the polycarbonate top of the WS Light Tactile creates a clear and resonant sound that can be especially striking when paired with RGB lighting.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Macchiato and WS Light Tactile utilize nylon, showcasing a shared trait that enhances their sound profiles during typing. The nylon bottom housing in both devices contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, making the bottom-out feel more solid and satisfying. Here, the similarities in the bottom housing material create a common ground, as both switches will produce rich and muted sounds upon activation. This aspect highlights that, despite differences in their top housings, the two switches share a fundamental approach towards the tactile experience by employing nylon for the bottom, thus ensuring a consistent auditory and haptic sensation at this stage of the keypress.
The interplay of materials in these two switches illustrates the nuanced ways in which housing composition can affect both sound and feel during typing. With the Macchiato's combination of a nylon top and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a cohesive auditory experience characterized by softness and warmth. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile's polycarbonate top combined with a nylon bottom results in a hybrid character: users will benefit from the bright clarity of the polycarbonate upon key release while still enjoying the deeper tones produced by the nylon during bottom-out. This complexity in sound engineering allows both switches to fulfill specific user preferences, showcasing how the interplay of materials can lead to a diverse array of typing experiences despite having a shared element in their bottom housings.
Weight
The HMX Macchiato linear switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, with the same 50 grams for the bottom out force. While both switches share the same bottom out force, they differ in their actuation forces; the Macchiato’s lower actuation force provides a lighter feel that may appeal to users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. The WS Light Tactile's heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience, which may be preferred by users looking for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter touch for comfort in prolonged usage should lean towards the Macchiato, while those who enjoy a firmer key feel may be inclined to choose the WS Light Tactile.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel and feedback when pressing down on the keys of either switch, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Since both switches have identical travel distances, those seeking consistent key responsiveness will find that either option will provide similar tactile results when engaged.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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, the HMX Macchiato switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, which appeals to those who enjoy a more resonant and lively acoustic experience when typing. This contrasts with the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, which features a neutral sound signature. The neutral profile provides a moderate actuation force and sound level, making it versatile for various environments—be it a quiet office or a more casual home setting. While both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, the Macchiato undoubtedly leans more towards producing a brighter tone, while the WS Light Tactile is more subdued and adaptable.
When it comes to feel, the Macchiato switch offers a silky smooth typing experience that stands out for its effortless key presses. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile employs a stepped tactile feel, characterized by a pronounced tactile bump that provides clear feedback during typing without being overly aggressive. This design adds dimension to the keystroke, allowing the typist to distinctly feel the moment of actuation. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switches are described as easy-to-press, promoting a low-resistance action that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In this regard, the Macchiato is optimally smooth, while the WS Light Tactile offers comfortable tactile feedback along with effortless presses.
Combining this information, the HMX Macchiato linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel. If you prioritize a bright sound and silky smooth feel, the Macchiato is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you prefer the nuanced feedback of a tactile bump and a more neutral sound, the WS Light Tactile would serve you well. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, enabling you to find one that fits your specific typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, consider the nature of your typing experience and your personal preferences. If you value a silky smooth feel alongside an engaging auditory experience, the HMX Macchiato switch will likely suit you best. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams ensures that your fingers won’t tire during lengthy typing sessions, while its bright sound profile can make your keystrokes feel lively and enjoyable. This switch is perfect for users who may prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted typing flow without tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a noticeable tactile bump for better key recognition, the WS Light Tactile is an excellent choice. With its stepped tactile feel, it delivers responsiveness without overwhelming force, enhancing your typing accuracy while still maintaining a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments. Ultimately, if comfort and feedback are high on your list, the WS Light Tactile will serve you well. This way, you can align your choice with your specific preferences—whether you seek smoothness or tactile feedback, there’s an ideal option for your typing style.
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