HMX Macchiato vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both stand out, enticing typists with their unique characteristics while sharing the common trait of being linear switches. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is revered for its silky smooth typing experience and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a subtle auditory feedback and a seamless keystroke. In contrast, the WS POM+ distinguishes itself with its all-POM composition, offering a deeply satisfying "thock" sound signature and a buttery-smooth action, appealing to users who prioritize a rich audio experience while typing. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts seeking a fluid typing experience, their distinct sound profiles and materials create different sensations that can enhance one's overall typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinctive options in terms of housing materials, which significantly influence the sound profiles and tactile experiences of their respective switches. The Macchiato employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon, characterized as a classic switch housing material, tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft texture. This softness allows it to absorb sound more efficiently than harder plastics, contributing to a rich, dampened auditory experience. Users of the Macchiato can expect a certain consistency in sound quality and tactile feedback, enhanced by the properties of nylon throughout the entirety of the switch.
In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top and bottom housings, which contributes its own unique sound characteristics. Like nylon, POM is known for producing a deeper, relatively muted sound, offering a pleasant auditory experience. However, while both materials deliver a deep sound, the POM housing is noted for creating a distinct acoustic profile that some users might find more refined or "unique." This distinction allows the POM housing to yield a different feel and manner of sound production compared to nylon, even though both materials strive for a similar outcome in sound quality.
Despite their differences, both the HMX Macchiato and the WS POM+ achieve the goal of providing a satisfying and muted sound experience. Each switch's bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing affects the sound generated on release. As a result, even though the materials differ—nylon in the Macchiato and POM in the WS POM+—the two models maintain a comparable depth and quality of sound. This similarity means that users seeking rich sound profiles will find satisfactory options in both switches, albeit characterized by their unique nuances that align with the inherent properties of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light and making it well-suited for prolonged use during typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This difference in weight means that while the Macchiato offers a softer touch ideal for those who favor lighter options, the WS POM+ provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier resistance. Overall, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Macchiato would be the better choice, while the WS POM+ may appeal to those who appreciate a firmer feel in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The HMX Macchiato linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Macchiato offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which can provide a more tactile typing experience for those who appreciate the sensation of pressing down further. In contrast, the WS POM+ caters to users who prefer a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking rapid key activation. Therefore, if you value a more pronounced depth and tactile feedback, the Macchiato would be the ideal option. Conversely, for those who favor a snappier and more responsive typing action, the WS POM+ would be the better choice. Overall, the Macchiato is the longer switch, while the WS POM+ is the shorter one.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 offers a bright sound profile that contributes to an engaging typing experience, making it appealing for users who enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ showcases a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, which produces a more subdued and resonant acoustics. Users seeking a bolder auditory experience may prefer the Macchiato, while those who appreciate a more mellow and rich sound might find the WS POM+ to be more to their liking. It’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by the specific keyboard build and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Macchiato is renowned for its silky smooth typing experience, providing a seamless keystroke that many users find enjoyable for long typing sessions. The WS POM+, on the other hand, delivers a buttery-smooth keystroke that enhances the overall tactile experience. Both switches prioritize a smooth actuation, but the Macchiato leans toward a lighter touch, while the WS POM+ might be perceived as slightly more substantial in its keystroke feedback. This distinction can subtly influence user preference based on individual typing habits and comfort levels.
In summary, the HMX Macchiato and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Macchiato excels with its bright sound and silky smooth feel, making it a great choice for users who prioritize those qualities. Conversely, the WS POM+ is favored for its deeper sound and buttery keystrokes, appealing to those who appreciate a richer auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference, as both switches provide high-quality typing experiences with some distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, if you value a lighter typing experience with a focus on a silky smooth action and a bright sound profile, the HMX Macchiato linear switch is likely the better choice for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for rapid typing or gaming, allowing for a less strenuous finger movement while still providing satisfying feedback. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly firmer tactile experience combined with a deeper, more resonant "thock" sound and an overall luxurious feel, the WS POM+ linear switch may be more to your liking. With a 55-gram bottom-out force, it offers just enough resistance to enhance control without feeling overly harsh. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should reflect your personal preferences in typing feel and sound, so consider what aspects matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard experience.