HMX Macchiato vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Macchiato and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to distinct preferences. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, specializes in providing a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a bright sound profile that many typists find enjoyable. Its characteristics—clacky, bouncy, and feathery—make it ideal for those who relish a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 excels in crafting a smooth and subtle linear experience, characterized by its creamy feel and satisfying bottom-out sensation. This switch features generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, offering premium performance at an accessible price point, making it a fantastic choice for users who prioritize a balanced and solid typing experience without the louder clacks. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different workflows and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 Macchiato and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 showcase a mix of similarities and differences that shape their typing experiences. Both switches feature nylon as the bottom housing material, which is consistent across the two models. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, both switches produce a muted sound signature, particularly noticeable when bottoming out. This shared aspect means that users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches once pressed down, further emphasizing the acoustic characteristics that nylon brings to their design.
However, the top housing of each switch presents contrasting materials that significantly impact their overall feel and sound. The HMX Macchiato uses nylon, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 employs POK, or polyketone, for its top housing. Each material introduces its own unique properties: the nylon on the Macchiato adds to the soft and rounded sound profile, promoting a seamless transition to the bottom housing's characteristics. In contrast, the POK material on the Matcha Latte V2 boasts a notably lower coefficient of friction, contributing to a smoother feel during typing. This differentiation can create a more clacky and responsive typing experience, while still offering the warm sound backdrop established by the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the contrasting materials between the two switches result in distinct yet complementary experiences. While both share nylon as the bottom housing, the variances in top housing materials—nylon in the Macchiato and POK in the Matcha Latte V2—facilitate different sensory experiences during typing. Despite the differences in top housing composition, users can still anticipate a muted sound profile attributed to the nylon bottoms. Typists seeking a softer feel will appreciate the Macchiato, while those who prefer a smoother action and a clackier response will enjoy the Matcha Latte V2, yet both switches retain a coherence rooted in their common nylon bottom material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, the actuation force reveals a noticeable difference: the Macchiato requires 42 grams to actuate, while the Matcha Latte V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This gives the Macchiato a lighter feel, making it more suitable for users who prefer extended typing sessions with less finger fatigue, whereas the Matcha Latte V2, with its heavier actuation, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 remains unspecified, which means we cannot directly compare its bottoming out characteristics to those of the Macchiato, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. As such, individuals who seek a balance between a lighter actuation and a known bottom out measurement may find the Macchiato more favorable, while those who prefer a higher actuation force without detail on their bottoming out could explore the Matcha Latte V2.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a traditional option that provides a more substantial keypress feel. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which can cater to users seeking quicker key response times, a feature often favored by gamers. Thus, those who prefer a more robust typing experience and a deeper keypress may gravitate towards the Macchiato, while those who lean towards a snappier and more responsive feel will likely opt for the Matcha Latte V2. In summary, the Macchiato is the longer switch, while the Matcha Latte V2 is the shorter switch, catering to different user preferences in typing feel and responsiveness.
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 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
When considering the sound profile of the HMX Macchiato switch, it’s characterized as clacky, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive sound that many typists find invigorating or satisfying. This adds an energetic ambiance to the typing experience, making every keystroke feel pronounced. Conversely, the Huano Matcha Latte V2’s sound qualities are not explicitly described in the provided information, leaving some room for uncertainty. However, it’s worth noting that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, meaning you might find some similarities in auditory feedback depending on your specific setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX Macchiato switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness and bounciness. This creates a typing experience that not only minimizes resistance but also provides a delightful elastic feedback that lends itself well to energetic typing and gaming sessions. The added feathery quality also reduces finger fatigue, making it a comfortable choice for extended periods of use. On the other hand, the Matcha Latte V2 shares the bouncy sensation, offering a similar rebound effect when keys are pressed. Its creamy descriptor implies a smooth, buttery feel, combining the elements of gliding ease with a tactile sensation that enhances the typing experience. Both switches cater to a preference for smoothness, though the Matcha Latte V2 may provide a different tactile experience due to its unique creamy texture.
Overall, both the HMX Macchiato and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches present compelling options for newcomers, each with its distinct characteristics. While the Macchiato offers a pronounced clacky sound and a silky, feathery feel, the Matcha Latte V2 excels in its creamy smoothness and balanced responsiveness. Those looking for immediate auditory feedback may lean toward the Macchiato, while those preferring a subtly rich typing feel with solid bottom-out performance might appreciate the Matcha Latte V2. Regardless of choice, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that caters to the comfort and enjoyment of users.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch boils down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth, lively touch with a clacky sound that provides a unique auditory feedback, the HMX Macchiato is your best bet. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams, combined with its silky, bouncy, and feathery feel, makes it an excellent choice for those who engage in extensive typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue while delivering an engaging experience. On the other hand, if you seek a subtle yet satisfying linear feel with a premium performance at an accessible price, the Matcha Latte V2 is the way to go. Designed for those who appreciate a creamy, bouncy typing sensation with generous factory lubrication, it ensures minimal stem wobble and offers a solid bottom-out feel, ideal for a variety of tasks without being overly aggressive in sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and sound preferences, allowing you to select the switch that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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