Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Perky both shine as excellent linear options, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and nuanced typing experience, combining a light actuation force with a solid bottom-out feel, thanks to its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This makes it a fantastic choice for users who appreciate a premium feel at an accessible price point. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switches offer a softer, glittery nylon housing that lends itself to a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience. With a shorter travel distance, they encourage a more condensed and responsive keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a quicker actuation. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them desirable depending on your typing style and preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Perky, one can observe both distinctions and similarities that influence their overall performance. The Matcha Latte V2 features a polyketone (POK) top housing, which is known for its low coefficient of friction (0.04), ultimately contributing to a smoother feel during typing. The durable nature of POK, with its wear resistance being 14 times higher than POM and exceptional shock resistance, sets it apart. In contrast, the Perky utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon, while a classic material, offers a distinct typing experience, characterized by a deeper and rounder sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. Thus, while the Matcha Latte V2 aims for a smoother typing experience with a more pronounced sound when releasing a key, the Perky leans towards a fuller auditory profile when pressed down.
Both switches share nylon as a common material for their bottom housing, bringing consistency in the tactile qualities and overall sound characteristics when typing. The nylon used in both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Perky helps to create a muted acoustic profile that adds depth to the keystroke sound. This consistency means that irrespective of the differences in upper housings, users can expect similar auditory experiences and tactile feedback from the bottom-out sound. As nylon absorbs sound effectively, the bottom housing impacts the feel when the key is pressed, leading to a smoother, more rounded sound from both switches when bottomed out.
In summary, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Perky both incorporate nylon in their bottom housings for a consistent sound profile, but they diverge significantly in their top housing materials. The Matcha Latte V2's POK top enhances smoothness and durability, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quick and responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Perky's nylon top offers a softer touch with a richer, more resonant sound. These differences allow each switch to cater to varied typing preferences, yet both models will deliver satisfying results, balanced by their shared nylon bottom housing. Hence, while the experience may vary slightly due to the top housings, the foundational qualities derived from the bottom nylon housing ensure comparable performance in terms of sound and feel when both switches are utilized.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, we find that the Matcha Latte V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, while the Perky features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This difference in actuation force may appeal to users based on their typing preferences; those who favor a lighter switch for prolonged use might lean towards the Perky. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown, while the Perky has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer feel at the end of the keystroke. Thus, if one prefers a more pronounced feedback when bottoming out, the Perky may be the preferred choice. Overall, the Matcha Latte V2 is heavier in terms of actuation force, while the Perky, with its lighter actuation and known bottom out force, offers a more gentle touch that can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Matcha Latte V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Perky has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you prefer a switch that provides a bit more depth and a heartier feel when pressing down, the Matcha Latte V2 is the better choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more responsive feel, the Perky’s shorter travel distance may cater to that preference. Ultimately, the Matcha Latte V2 is the longer option, while the HMX Perky is the shorter one, making them suitable for different user experiences based on individual preferences for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky 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 Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is generally smooth and subdued, providing a quiet typing experience that makes it suitable for both office and home environments. Its balance of lightness and solid bottom-out enhances the overall audio feedback without becoming overly distracting. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch also produces a mellow sound, thanks to its softer nylon housing, which can create a warm and subtle acoustic presence. While both switches lean towards quieter operation, the Matcha Latte V2 may be slightly more refined in sound because of its optimized design, potentially offering a more premium auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 stands out for its smoothness and responsiveness. The generous factory lubrication contributes to a silky typing experience, minimizing any stem wobble and ensuring a solid bottom-out that instills confidence with each keystroke. The HMX Perky switch, however, presents a unique typing experience with its slightly condensed travel distance. This makes for a different kind of satisfaction, as the switch allows for quicker actuation while still providing a neutral and comfortable touch. While both switches allow for enjoyable typing experiences, the Matcha Latte V2 emphasizes an overall smooth and slightly firmer feedback, whereas the Perky focuses on a softer and potentially more playful feel.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Perky linear switches offer unique yet satisfying experiences that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Latte shines with its smooth auditory and tactile feedback, making it a solid choice for those seeking a premium feel. On the other hand, the Perky offers a delightful typing experience with its condensed travel and soft housing, perfect for users looking for responsiveness and comfort. While there are differences in sound and feel, both switches maintain high quality and performance, ensuring a rewarding typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a smooth and subtle linear experience with an emphasis on a solid bottom-out feel and minimal stem wobble, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice. Its premium performance coupled with generous factory lubrication makes it ideal for those who enjoy a balanced typing experience without any harshness. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter touch with a unique, condensed feel thanks to its shorter travel distance, the HMX Perky might be more suitable for you. The softer nylon housing contributes to a satisfying typing experience that is both neutral and pleasant, making it great for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize a smooth ride with a firmer bottom-out or a lighter, condensed experience, so consider trying both to see which one resonates with your typing style best.
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