Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, and two noteworthy options are the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX SU, both of which offer a linear typing experience. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle actuation, striking a perfect balance between lightness and a satisfying bottom-out feel, thanks to its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a premium tactile performance without breaking the bank. In contrast, the HMX SU switches offer a full PA12 housing, which produces a relatively deep sound profile paired with a T5 stem, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they do so in unique ways that can significantly impact your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

HMX SU Linear

$3.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX SU, distinct differences emerge in their top materials while both switches share the same bottom housing material. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, characterized by its exceptional smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK allows for a seamless typing experience that is not only smooth but also robust, showcasing impressive wear resistance and shock absorption capabilities. This contributes to a distinct "clacky" sound when typing, influencing the acoustic profile as one releases a key. In contrast, the HMX SU opts for a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound better than harder materials. Thus, while both types of housing serve to enhance the typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 leans towards a smoother and more pronounced sound, whereas the SU focuses on warmth and a rounded acoustic signature.

The bottom housings of both the Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX SU are made from nylon, which is a classic material choice for switch housings. Since both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, they share similar acoustic properties, producing a deeper and fuller typing sound. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that the overall auditory experience during bottom-out will be notably consistent between the two switches, regardless of their top housing differences. The nylon's sound-absorbing qualities contribute to the overall feel and sound of the key presses, maintaining a cohesive auditory profile amid the contrasting top materials.

Ultimately, the combination of different top materials and the shared nylon bottom housing results in unique, yet comparable, typing experiences. The POK top on the Matcha Latte V2 enhances the smoothness and creates a distinct clacky sound upon key release, while the nylon top of the HMX SU provides a softer, more cushioned sound response. Therefore, despite the differences in the top materials, users can expect a rounded and deep sound profile during bottom-out due to the shared nylon bottom. This compatibility in bottom housing ensures that while the tactile experience may differ, both switches can provide satisfying results for users looking for a pleasurable typing experience.

Weight

The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, allowing for similar performance in terms of typing responsiveness. However, the difference lies in the bottom out force, where the HMX SU boasts a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 remains unknown. This indicates that the SU switch provides a heavier overall feel when pressed all the way down, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, without a specified bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2, we can infer that it might be lighter when fully pressed down, thus potentially making it more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Overall, the Matcha Latte V2 is the lighter option, which caters well to users who favor lightweight switches, while the HMX SU offers a heavier feel for those who enjoy increased resistance.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch is identical, measuring 3.6 mm each. This means that when pressed, both switches provide the same tactile feedback and responsiveness, resulting in comparable performance for users. Since their travel distances are equal, one can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation, making either switch a reliable choice for those who prefer a consistent typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is known for its smooth auditory profile, which contributes to a subtly refined typing experience. While the specific sound characteristics are less defined, the overall impression leans towards a more muted, pleasant noise without harsh peaks. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by a relatively deep sound profile, thanks to its full PA12 housing combined with the T5 stem. This results in a more resonant sound, offering a richer auditory experience compared to the Matcha Latte V2. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 switch stands out for its smooth and light typing experience, coupled with a solid bottom-out sensation that feels both satisfying and reassuring. The generous factory lubrication further enhances this smoothness, resulting in minimal stem wobble and a reassuring sense of control with each keystroke. The HMX SU linear switch, while not explicitly detailed in terms of tactile feel, can be inferred to provide a coherent linear typing experience overall. Given the tonal and mechanical differences, it may not match the same subtlety found in the Matcha Latte V2, but users can expect a reasonably smooth action.

In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch cater to those seeking linear functionality, but they emphasize different subjective qualities. The Matcha Latte V2 offers a smooth experience with a more subdued sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU boasts a deeper sound profile which may appeal to those looking for a richer auditory sensation, though its feel has less specified information. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying performance, but users will find distinct characteristics that may lead them to one switch over the other based on personal preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth, subtly responsive typing experience along with an exceptionally light feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is a strong contender. Its generous factory lubrication and solid bottom-out sensation create a satisfying balance that many typists and gamers appreciate, particularly if you spend long hours at your keyboard. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more grounded typing experience with a defined actuation force and a slightly deeper sound profile, the HMX SU may be the ideal choice for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a tactile feedback that some users prefer for both typing and gaming. The full PA12 housing and T5 stem contribute to the nuanced acoustic properties, making it a satisfying switch for those who enjoy a slightly deeper sound. So, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight, smooth experience or a solid, tactile feel with a distinctive sound.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

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HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more