HMX Hibiscus vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Hibiscus stands out with its incredibly ultra-light actuation force, which makes it a top choice for those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. Its distinct clacky and crispy sound signature enhances the auditory feedback, adding a playful element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers a more subtle approach with its balanced linear performance, featuring generous factory lubrication that reduces stem wobble and ensures a premium feel without breaking the bank. While the Hibiscus may appeal to those who enjoy an exciting acoustic signature alongside fluid simplicity, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a more refined and controlled experience for users who prefer a solid bottom-out feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right 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
T3
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, one notable distinction lies in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This absorption of sound enhances the typing experience, yielding a duller and rounder auditory feedback that many typists enjoy. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which significantly differs in properties. POK offers a much smoother typing experience with a distinct clacky sound, attributed to its lower coefficient of friction and exceptional durability, boasting wear resistance 14 times greater than POM. Thus, while both switches aim to provide a satisfactory tactile experience, their top housing materials fundamentally influence the sound and feel during typing.
The bottom housings for both switches are crafted from nylon, which aligns them in terms of sound absorption and overall experience. Since nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, users of both the Hibiscus and the Matcha Latte V2 will likely experience similar auditory characteristics when bottoming out on a keypress. Both switches can deliver a satisfying typing sound due to the nylon bottom housing's property of absorbing sound, reinforcing that the foundational feel and auditory feedback of both switches align, despite the differing top housings. This shared material fosters a cohesive experience when transitioning between the two, particularly on the bottom-out phase.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials will manifest in the overall typing experience between the two switches. The Hibiscus's nylon top housing creates a softer, more muted sound, whereas the Matcha Latte V2's POK top housing enhances smoothness and introduces a crisper, clackier feedback upon release. However, the combination of nylon bottom housings for both ensures that the typist experiences a consistent sound quality when engaging the switch. This synergy highlights that while the top housings diverge in purpose and acoustic prominence, the underlying similarities in bottom housing materials contribute to an anchored auditory and tactile feel across both models. Consequently, users can expect enjoyable typing experiences with each switch, albeit with unique acoustic signatures depending on their choice.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, with the Hibiscus requiring 42 grams to actuate and the Matcha Latte V2 needing a slightly stronger 45 grams. This makes the Hibiscus the lighter option, which can be beneficial for users who anticipate extensive typing or gaming sessions, as it may lead to less finger fatigue over time. However, the bottom out force of the Matcha Latte V2 remains unknown, making it challenging to fully compare the two switches in terms of their overall feel during key presses. The Hibiscus's bottom out force is 48 grams, indicating a substantial push-through feel when reaching the end of the key press. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter switch that still offers a clear actuation and defined bottom out, the Hibiscus would be the more suitable choice, while the Matcha Latte V2's heavier actuation force may appeal to users seeking a more robust typing experience, provided its bottom out characteristics align with their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, the Hibiscus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Matcha Latte V2 affords a tad more depth when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, could provide a more responsive feel, making it especially suitable for gamers who value quick actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on individual preference for depth versus responsiveness, with the Hibiscus being the shorter option and the Matcha Latte V2 standing as the longer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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
The sound profile of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy quality, which sets it apart and provides an engaging auditory experience while typing. This lively sound signature is particularly appealing for those who value the acoustic feedback of their keyboard, making each keystroke feel more dynamic. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switch offers a smoother sound that strikes a balance between subtlety and clarity. Although its sound may not have the same vibrant character as the Hibiscus, it adds a pleasant auditory backdrop to the typing experience. It's important to remember that the final sound produced by both switches can be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycap choices used, which may further shape their distinctive qualities.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus excels in delivering an ultra-light actuation force, providing a remarkable smoothness that many users find exhilarating when typing. This contributes to a feather-light tactile experience that can be exceptionally satisfying for both gaming and daily tasks. On the contrary, the Matcha Latte V2 is designed to offer a smooth, subtle linear typing experience characterized by a balanced lightness paired with a solid bottom-out feel. Its generous factory lubrication minimizes stem wobble, further enhancing the overall experience. Both switches provide smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, but the Hibiscus is lighter and may produce a more effortless action compared to the slightly more grounded feel of the Matcha Latte V2.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches cater to different aspects of the typing experience, appealing to a range of preferences. The Hibiscus is perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and lively sound along with an ultra-lightly actuated feel, while the Matcha Latte V2 provides a more subdued auditory experience paired with a balanced tactile sensation. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that prioritizes sound and a lightweight feel, the Hibiscus may be your best bet, whereas the Matcha Latte V2 offers a smoother, more grounded typing experience that is also excellent. Depending on your priorities, either switch will deliver a satisfying keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Hibiscus and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you’re looking for a lightweight switch that prioritizes smoothness and delivers a captivating clacky sound, the HMX Hibiscus is the way to go. Its ultra-light actuation force makes it an excellent choice for rapid typing, gaming, or simply enjoying a responsive keystroke sensation. On the other hand, if you want a more balanced typing experience with a rich, subtle linear feel, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is ideal. Its factory lubrication ensures a silky smooth operation with minimal stem wobble, making it suitable for long typing sessions or tasks requiring precision. Ultimately, if you relish a lively acoustic profile paired with a soft touch, opt for the Hibiscus; however, if you prefer a quieter, solid typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 will serve you well.
Mentioned in this article
