HMX Macchiato vs. PH Studio Yoel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, the choice of switch can significantly influence the typing experience. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, stands out with its silky smooth feel, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize a fluid and quiet typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel, manufactured by BSUN, offers a delectably chewy texture paired with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates delightfully with every keystroke. While the Macchiato excels in delivering a straightforward and refined experience, the Yoel's character shines through its pronounced bottom-out resonance, providing a more tactile and engaging feedback for users. Each switch brings its own unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences in feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Macchiato Linear

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the HMX Macchiato and the PH Studio Yoel, we can immediately note the differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic characteristics and overall feel. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing that is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the Yoel employs a polycarbonate top housing that enhances acoustics with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffer composition allows it to resonate more clearly, making polycarbonate a preferred choice for achieving a bright tonal quality, especially in designs featuring RGB lighting due to its translucency.

When examining the bottom housings, we see a similar contrast in material selection that impacts both the tactile experience and auditory feedback. The Macchiato’s nylon bottom housing continues the trend of generating a full sound profile akin to its top, as it effectively absorbs sound, providing a consistent auditory experience without sharp overtones. Conversely, the Yoel’s POM bottom housing delivers a unique sound that is deep and muted, yet enjoyable, due to POM’s durability and density. This distinctive quality means that while both switches may dial into a lower sound spectrum, the material choice affects not just the tone but also the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses.

Ultimately, while the HMX Macchiato and the PH Studio Yoel utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, achieving a rich acoustic result is still possible through careful selection of components. For instance, the combined soft nature of both the Macchiato's nylon top and bottom enhances its warm sound profile. In contrast, the combination of polycarbonate and POM in the Yoel allows for a more complex layering of sound, balancing clear highs with pleasingly muted lows. Thus, players seeking deeper and fuller sound in their typing experience might gravitate toward the Macchiato, while those desiring a crisp resonance with nuanced bass might prefer the Yoel, allowing for a broad spectrum of user preferences based on material characteristics.

Weight

The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch exhibit distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces, influencing the typing experience they provide. The Macchiato has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions due to its ease of activation. In contrast, the Yoel switch features a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. Consequently, those who enjoy a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Macchiato for casual use or extended gaming, while those who appreciate a stronger push might opt for the Yoel. Overall, the Macchiato is lighter, catering to users seeking comfort, while the Yoel, being heavier, appeals to those desiring a more robust tactile response.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Macchiato has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Yoel features a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference highlights a significant characteristic of the two switches; the Macchiato offers a more traditional and longer travel distance that can provide a deeper feel when pressing down, appealing to users who prefer a substantial keypress experience. On the other hand, the Yoel's shorter travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it an attractive option for gamers and users who favor rapid key actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth versus responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Macchiato linear switch is designed for those who seek a bright sound profile, creating a lively auditory experience with each keystroke. Although specific sound characteristics are not detailed, the mention of a "bright" quality suggests it may offer a crisp and clear sound when pressed. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a very pronounced auditory presence, described as bright and clacky, which contributes to a sharp and snappy sound with a resonant quality that can be quite satisfying. This distinction is notable; while the Macchiato leans towards a more understated sound, the Yoel thrives on producing a more engaging and lively auditory experience, providing keyboard enthusiasts with a choice based on their desired sound profile.

In terms of feel, the Macchiato is positioned as offering a silky smooth typing experience, which is a hallmark that many typists appreciate for its lack of resistance and smooth actuation. The PH Studio Yoel, on the other hand, is characterized by a delectably chewy experience, with descriptors such as creamy, polished, and silky highlighting a luxurious typing sensation. This suggests that while both switches are smooth, the Yoel may provide a richer texture under the fingertips thanks to its unique design and possibly the materials used. Users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing may gravitate towards the Yoel, while those who prioritize a traditional smooth experience may find the Macchiato appealing.

In conclusion, both the HMX Macchiato and the PH Studio Yoel linear switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The choice between them ultimately depends on whether one desires a more bright and lively auditory experience with the Yoel, or a silky smoothness with the Macchiato. While both switches emphasize a smooth typing technology, the key differences present themselves in their individual acoustic signatures and tactile sensations, making each a worthy contender for different style preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you favor a lighter keypress and crave a silky smooth typing experience, the Macchiato is the perfect fit for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force paired with its bright sound profile makes it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and minimal fatigue are paramount. However, if you appreciate a more tactile experience with a bit of resistance, the Yoel, with its 60-gram bottom-out force, will likely be more to your liking. The unique chewy feel and pronounced clackiness offer an engaging tactile feedback that many find satisfying, especially when gaming or engaging in quick typing bursts. Thus, consider whether you prioritize a lighter touch and smoothness or a firmer keypress with an auditory punch when making your selection—and choose the switch that aligns with your keyboarding style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Yoel Linear

$4.50

$4.10 per 10

Learn more