Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Poro linear switches both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Matcha Latte V2 is renowned for its smooth, understated typing experience, providing an ideal balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, complemented by generous factory lubrication that minimizes stem wobble. This switch is particularly appealing for those seeking premium linear performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the HMX Poro is designed for users who crave a silky smooth keystroke coupled with a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, thanks to its ultra-light actuation force and meticulous lubrication. While both switches promise an enjoyable linear typing experience, they cater to slightly different desires in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Poro showcase distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK (polyketone) material for its top housing, which is known for its superior hardness and low coefficient of friction. With a friction coefficient of 0.04, POK offers a smooth typing experience, enhanced durability, and impressive shock resistance compared to more traditional materials like Nylon and POM. This contributes to a satisfying, clacky sound that many enthusiasts seek in their switches, setting it apart from the Poro's construction.
In contrast, the HMX Poro opts for Nylon for both its top and bottom housings. As a classic switch material, Nylon benefits from its softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, ultimately providing a duller yet smooth auditory experience. Since both the top and bottom housings of the Poro are made from Nylon, the switch is likely to produce a more cohesive sound that resonates uniformly for a more muted bottom-out sound. The use of Nylon instead of the more advanced POK in the Matcha Latte V2 leads to a fundamental difference in the tactile feedback and overall sound output of these two switches.
Despite their differences, both the Matcha Latte V2 and HMX Poro switches share the commonality of using Nylon on the bottom housing, thus giving them a similar deep sound quality. The Matcha Latte V2 blends the enhanced characteristics of POK in the top switch with the soft sound-absorbing properties of Nylon in the bottom switch. On the other hand, the Poro's use of Nylon in both housings creates a distinct sound signature that prioritizes muffled tones. Consequently, enthusiasts might find a familiar feel in the bottom-out experience across both switches, but the auditory feedback profiles will differ due to the choice of top materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar effort when pressing the keys to register a keystroke. However, the HMX Poro switch features a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel upon pressing the key fully down compared to the Matcha Latte V2, which unfortunately does not have a specified bottom out force. This difference indicates that the Poro switch delivers a more noticeable resistance at the bottom of the keystroke, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Matcha Latte V2 is lighter overall since there is no additional bottom out force specified, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, those who enjoy a stronger push feel might find the HMX Poro to be a more suitable option due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Matcha Latte V2 is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer for quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial press, providing a deeper and more tactile experience. Both switches fall within the range of modern preferences, catering to different user needs; if you choose the Matcha Latte V2, you can expect a snappier response, while the Poro offers a bit more depth in key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro 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 Matcha Latte V2 is characterized by its smooth and subtle acoustic profile that complements its linear nature, allowing for a muted yet pleasant typing experience. This switch maintains a balanced sound that minimizes distraction, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch introduces a more vibrant auditory element with its poppy and clacky sound profile, which adds a bit of character to each keystroke. This difference in sound can greatly influence the typing experience depending on personal preference; however, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound will also depend on the choice of board and keycaps used with these switches.
When examining the feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is renowned for its smooth and subtle typing experience, providing an excellent balance of lightness during actuation and a satisfying solid bottom-out feel that appeals to those who enjoy a more cushioned response. The generous factory lubrication also enhances this sensation by minimizing stem wobble, providing a consistent experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch boasts an effortlessly gliding feel due to meticulous lubrication, delivering silky smooth keystrokes that make typing feel seamless and fluid. However, the ultra-light actuation force can give the Poro a more sensitive feel that may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more deliberate and controlled action.
Overall, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and HMX Poro linear switches offer unique yet desirable attributes for keyboard enthusiasts. The Matcha Latte V2 provides a more muted acoustic experience with a balanced feel, while the HMX Poro emphasizes a livelier sound and an ultra-smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will likely come down to your personal preference regarding sound and feel, but both options are capable of delivering a satisfying linear experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you value a smooth, neutral typing experience with a solid bottom-out feel and appreciate a bit of lightness in your keystrokes, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option. Its generous factory lubrication and low stem wobble ensure a pleasant and refined sensation with each press, making it a great choice for both typing and gaming scenarios where precision matters. On the other hand, if you are drawn to ultra-light actuation forces and enjoy a lively, poppy sound with clacky feedback, the HMX Poro linear switch may suit you better. With its meticulously lubricated design that promotes an effortless glide, this switch provides an engaging tactile experience, particularly if you favor rapid key presses and fast-paced gaming. Ultimately, consider both your tactile preferences and the characteristics of each switch to make the most informed decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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