HMX Canglan V2 vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and Huano Matcha Latte V2 both stand out as noteworthy options for enthusiasts seeking linear performance. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its "thocky" sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience while maintaining a smooth, lightweight feel that appeals to those who prioritize both sound and tactile feedback. Its meticulously crafted materials and enhanced molding techniques ensure a premium typing experience that many avid typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a more subtle approach, delivering a seamless linear typing experience with a perfect balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. Generously lubricated right from the factory, these switches reduce stem wobble while maintaining affordability, making them an attractive choice for those seeking value without compromising performance. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches showcase a blend of traditional and advanced materials, each contributing distinct characteristics to the overall typing experience. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which is renowned for its softer plastic properties. This inherent softness allows nylon to absorb sound effectively, creating a deeper and fuller acoustic profile that users often describe as warm and round. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 employs POK for its top housing, a material that offers a higher friction coefficient and remarkable durability. This difference creates a unique typing feel characterized by smoothness and a slightly sharper acoustic quality, which can be considered clackier and more tactile compared to the subdued warmth of nylon.
While both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, the difference in the top materials between the two models emphasizes how each contributes to the overall sound and feel. The Canglan V2's dual nylon construction promotes a cohesive and immersive typing experience, with both the bottom and top housing reinforcing similar acoustic qualities. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 combines nylon's softer qualities in the bottom housing with the POK's innovative characteristics in the top housing, effectively splitting the experience. Here, the nylon bottom provides a muffled, deeper sound when bottoming out, while the POK top enhances the clarity and sharpness during release, allowing for a contrast in feelings when typing that the Canglan V2 does not present.
Despite the differences in top materials, both models share similar bottom housing materials, which stabilizes some aspects of their performance. This ensures that while the Canglan V2 delivers a more consistent deep sound profile across both housing components, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a distinctively smooth and vibrant typing experience due to its varying materials. Ultimately, for users who enjoy a deeper sound, both switches will perform well thanks to the nylon bottom housing; however, for those looking for a more textured feel with clackier notes at the top, the Matcha Latte V2's POK top will offer a unique take. This juxtaposition illustrates how the choice of materials tailors the experience of each switch while maintaining a fundamental similarity in sound quality due to the shared use of nylon.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch exhibit notable differences in actuation force, which can affect the typing experience. The Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Matcha Latte V2's 45 grams, making the Canglan V2 a preferable choice for users who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 remains unspecified, leaving an incomplete comparison regarding how deep the switch feels when fully pressed. The Canglan V2 has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which provides a firm feedback upon keystroke registration, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while both switches cater to different user preferences—lighter for the Canglan V2 and potentially heavier (though unspecified) for the Matcha Latte V2—they create distinct tactile sensations according to their measured forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you choose the Canglan V2, you will experience a slightly shorter press compared to the Matcha Latte V2. For gamers and individuals who prefer quicker response times, the Canglan’s shorter travel distance may be more appealing as it can offer a faster actuation. Conversely, those who favor a more pronounced keystroke may find the Matcha Latte V2’s 3.6 mm travel to be more satisfying, providing a deeper feel with each key press. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches centers on personal preference, where the Canglan V2 provides a more responsive experience, while the Matcha Latte V2 offers a slightly more substantial depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Canglan V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Canglan V2 for $2.99.
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 comes in at $3.99 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 Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its thocky sound signature, characterized by a deep, resonant tone that many enthusiasts find particularly satisfying. This robust auditory profile is a result of the switch's crafted materials and advanced molding techniques, elevating the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switch employs a more subtle approach with a smooth, linear sound that balances lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. While it may not produce the same depth as the Canglan V2, its sound profile is still pleasant and unobtrusive, making it suitable for both quiet environments and louder typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 offers a smooth and light experience that allows for fast and effortless typing, making it ideal for those who appreciate a lighter touch. Its design minimizes friction, ensuring a seamless keystroke. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a well-balanced feel with generous factory lubrication, which contributes to its smoothness and minimizes any potential stem wobble. The Matcha Latte V2 maintains a solid bottom-out sensation, giving typists a satisfying feedback without being overly heavy. Both switches cater to a linear typing experience but differ in their tactile feedback, with the Canglan V2 being lighter and the Matcha Latte V2 emphasizing stability and balance.
Overall, the HMX Canglan V2 and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches each offer unique qualities that can satisfy different typing preferences. While the Canglan V2 excels in producing a deep, thocky sound and a smooth, lightweight feel, the Matcha Latte V2 emphasizes a subtle auditory experience paired with a balanced and stable typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches cater to smooth linear experiences, so your choice may come down to whether you prefer the distinct deep thock of the Canglan V2 or the balanced and lubricated touch of the Matcha Latte V2.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches, you'll want to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, as well as your typing style. If you find yourself drawn to a thocky sound profile combined with a smooth, light feel, the Canglan V2 will likely cater to your desires beautifully, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a deep auditory experience while typing. However, if you prefer a linear switch that emphasizes a more subtle and serene typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a satisfying balance with its light touch and premium performance. Moreover, if you appreciate factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, this switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing habits—think about whether you favor a heavier, more textured auditory feedback or a refined, smoother experience during long typing sessions. With these considerations in mind, you'll be well-equipped to select the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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