HMX Macchiato vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing between the HMX Macchiato and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its silky smooth feel and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy an auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch introduces a revolutionary silent typing experience, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This allows for unparalleled smoothness and stability, coupled with a soft, elastic feel that effectively absorbs sound and minimizes noise, perfect for quiet environments or late-night typing sessions. While the Macchiato caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback, the Zero Degree 0° is tailored for users seeking a quieter and more subdued typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches present distinct contrasts in the materials of their top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles while typing. The Macchiato features a nylon top housing, a classic switch material known for its softer texture. This results in a deeper and more muffled sound quality, as the nylon absorbs sound effectively, producing a fuller auditory experience. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° employs a polycarbonate top housing that is recognized for its stiffness and translucency. This material enhances the sound profile to produce sharper and crisper acoustic feedback, offering a more resonant sound when keys are released. Thus, the choice of top housing contributes fundamentally to the overall auditory character of each switch, with the Macchiato leaning towards a warmer sound and the Zero Degree 0° producing brighter tones.
When analyzing the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon as their material, which aligns their acoustic qualities in this regard. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a consistent deeper sound profile when typing, producing a duller and rounder experience that remains unaffected by the variances in top housing materials. This shared choice of nylon in both switches means that when pressed down, users of either switch will feel and hear a similar quality influenced by the bottom housing. The deeper profile that comes from the nylon ensures that both switches deliver a consistent tactile sensation, regardless of the differences in their top housings.
Overall, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Macchiato and Zero Degree 0° introduces a unique juxtaposition that affects the typing experience. While both switches share nylon bottom housings that contribute a fuller sound, their top housings diverge significantly in material, leading to different auditory experiences. Therefore, if a user seeks a more muted and rounded sound, the HMX Macchiato would be favorable due to its nylon top. Conversely, for those wishing to achieve a clearer and more resonant sound profile, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° would be the better option. Ultimately, these differences allow for tailored auditory experiences based on user preference, while maintaining a sense of continuity in the feel provided by the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both provide unique tactile experiences, particularly when comparing their actuation forces. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, favoring those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys. However, while the Macchiato has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Zero Degree 0° is unavailable, leaving a gap in comparison for this metric. This uncertainty prevents a direct comparison of bottoming out characteristics. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter switch experience may prefer the HMX Macchiato, while those seeking a somewhat heavier pressure should consider the Gateron Zero Degree 0°.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Macchiato provides a more substantial pressing experience, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more tactile keypress. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° may cater to gamers and users who favor quicker response times and a more immediate action, though some may find this abruptness less enjoyable. Therefore, if you appreciate a hearty depth in your typing experience, the Macchiato's longer travel distance is the better choice, whereas for those prioritizing rapid key activation, the shorter distance of the Zero Degree 0° may be preferable.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato linear switch offers a bright sound profile, making it well-suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly for users who appreciate the tactile connection to their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on silent operation through its innovative self-padding design. This allows for a remarkably quiet typing experience, minimizing noise and making it ideal for quiet environments where sound may be distracting or unwelcome. While both switches have their unique sound signatures, the Macchiato provides a more lively auditory experience, whereas the Zero Degree excels in silence.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato is characterized by a silky smooth typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize an effortless keypress. This makes it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions, as the smoothness can reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed with a soft, elastic feel that adds to its overall comfort. The dual-rail structure not only enhances stability but also contributes to a perception of suppleness during use. While both switches deliver an enjoyable typing sensation, the Macchiato leans toward a luxurious smoothness, while the Zero Degree offers a comforting, almost pillowy effect.
In conclusion, both the HMX Macchiato and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches bring distinct benefits to the table. The Macchiato’s bright sound profile complements its silky smooth feel, making it a pleasure for those who enjoy audible feedback and a refined typing experience. In contrast, the Zero Degree focuses on silent operation without compromising on smoothness or stability, perfect for users who prioritize noise reduction. Depending on your preferences regarding sound and feel, each switch presents a unique appeal that can significantly enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a smooth and responsive typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback, the HMX Macchiato, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, may be the better fit for you. It’s an excellent choice if you want that tactile enjoyment in every keystroke while still maintaining a relatively light touch. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience—perhaps due to working in a shared space or late-night gaming sessions—the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is designed specifically for this purpose with its innovative self-padding design. The dual-rail structure eliminates noise while providing an exceptionally smooth and stable typing feel. Ultimately, if sound profile and tactile feedback are your top priorities, go with the Macchiato; however, if silence and smoothness take precedence, the Zero Degree 0° would be the ideal switch for you.
Mentioned in this article
