Huano Acacia vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and KTT Matcha present two distinct yet compelling options, each catering to different preferences. The Huano Acacia, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, all contributing to a smooth and satisfying typing experience right out of the box. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha stands out as one of the finest examples of a tactile switch, delivering a comfortable and snappy tactility that enhances the typing experience. Its long pole stem produces a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, making it perfect for users who enjoy the satisfaction of tactile feedback with every keystroke. With such contrasting characteristics, potential switch users have much to consider depending on whether they prefer linear smoothness or tactile responsiveness. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and KTT Matcha both feature polycarbonate top housings that share similar acoustic characteristics, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound when the keys are pressed. As both switches utilize a transparent material for the top housing, users will enjoy the visual effects of RGB lighting if their keyboards are equipped with it. This commonality implies that when it comes to the sound produced during key releases, both switches will elicit a comparable auditory experience, making them ideal for users seeking feedback and clarity in their typing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly, affecting the overall auditory experience. The Acacia utilizes nylon, traditionally known for its softer qualities that absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder profile when typing. This material choice makes for a contrasting experience to the KTT Matcha, which opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, characterized by its rigidity that contributes to a sharper sound profile. Therefore, while both switches can deliver crisp sounds from their polycarbonate tops, the Acacia's nylon bottom dampens the sound more, producing a fuller, more muted typing experience compared to the Matcha's sharper resonance.
Ultimately, the differing materials in the bottom housings highlight the way tactile feedback and sound experience can vary even when top housing characteristics are aligned. The nylon bottom of the Acacia allows for a significantly different typing feel, emphasizing a deeper thock, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom enhances the quick, snappy response with heightened clarity. Users who prioritize the sound and feel when bottoming out keys may prefer the Acacia for its fuller sound, while those who enjoy a sharper auditory response may gravitate towards the Matcha, showcasing how housing materials can drastically change the dynamics of a switch despite similarities in top housing.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Acacia requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the Matcha is lighter overall, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the KTT Matcha switch is easier to press down, making it potentially better suited for extended typing sessions or gaming, where less effort can lead to less fatigue. The Acacia, with its heavier actuation and bottom-out forces, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, providing more feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for lightness or heft in the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Huano Acacia linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Acacia switch will provide a slightly shorter travel feel compared to the Matcha. For those who prefer quicker, more responsive action in their keys, the Acacia’s shorter distance may be more appealing, offering a snappier response suited for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Matcha with its 4 mm travel distance may be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced keypress and a depthier feel, as it sits closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a more satisfying depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
When considering the sound profile of the Huano Acacia and KTT Matcha switches, the Acacia is known for its smoothness, producing a sound that is less pronounced, making it ideal for quieter environments. On the other hand, the Matcha switch generates a distinctly clacky noise that is bright and percussive. This snappy sound arises from its design and is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out phase of a keypress due to its long pole stem. The contrast between the two is notable, as the Acacia offers a more subdued auditory experience, while the Matcha's clackiness will be more engaging, making them suitable for different settings depending on noise preference.
In terms of feel, the Huano Acacia provides an enjoyable typing experience with its medium-light weight and minimal stem wobble, contributing to a general sense of smoothness and control that typists appreciate right out of the box. Conversely, the KTT Matcha is characterized by its snappy and stepped action, offering a comfortable tactile bump that lets users feel a clear transition during key presses. This bump, along with its feathery touch, allows for a light yet responsive experience that is perfect for both typing and gaming. While the Acacia focuses on smoothness with slightly less tactile feedback, the Matcha delivers a more tactile sensation, appealing to those who prefer to feel the mechanics of their switches more acutely.
In conclusion, the Huano Acacia and KTT Matcha switches cater to different typing preferences, with the Acacia leaning towards a smoother and quieter experience, while the Matcha emphasizes a crisper sound and more pronounced tactility. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, each switch can fulfill different roles effectively. Users who prefer quieter environments or a smoother keystroke will resonate with the Acacia, while those who enjoy tactile feedback and engaging acoustics will likely favor the Matcha. Ultimately, understanding these distinctions can significantly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smoother and more consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Acacia switches might be your best bet. Their medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, combined with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, ensures a pleasant typing experience straight out of the box. They are particularly suitable for long typing sessions, where fatigue could become an issue, and they provide a quieter typing experience, making them ideal for environments where silence is appreciated. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more tactile feel and enjoy auditory feedback when typing, the KTT Matcha switches might be more appealing. With a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, these switches offer a snappy and responsive experience that enhances the joy of typing, while their stepped tactile design provides clear feedback at the actuation point. The clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory element that can make the typing experience feel lively and energizing. Thus, weigh your needs based on typing style, environment, and personal preference to choose the switch that complements your keyboard usage best.
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