Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a crucial role in determining which switch best suits your typing style and gaming needs. The Huano Matcha Latte V2 switch is known for its smooth and subtle linear typing experience, providing a delicate balance between weight and a satisfying bottom-out feel. This switch benefits from generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, resulting in a premium linear performance that's accessible to all users. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a denser typing experience, crafted with a unique PA12 top housing that promotes softer acoustics and a POM stem that delivers a distinctively crisp resonance. While the Matcha Latte V2 is ideal for those who prefer a gentle touch with reliable feedback, the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users who enjoy a more robust switch with nuanced auditory qualities. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your preferences and usage scenarios.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, there is a notable distinction in the top housing material. The Matcha Latte V2 employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which is revered for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK is designed to offer a slick feel as the key is pressed down. Its strength is impressive, boasting wear resistance 14 times greater than standard POM and impressive shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, rounder auditory experience. This difference indicates that while the Matcha Latte V2 might deliver a smoother typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) may excel in sound profile richness.
Delving deeper into the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon in the same manner. The nylon bottom housing in both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Xinhai (Heavy) brings a consistent sound profile that is full and rounded due to the material's softer characteristics. With both switches sharing this bottom housing material, the impact on keystroke sound and feel comes predominantly from the nylon’s properties. As users bottom out the keys, the resonance from the nylon enhances the auditory feedback, providing a pleasing yet muted sound profile. This commonality ensures that both switches maintain a depth of sound, offering a familiar tactile experience irrespective of the top housings they utilize.
In terms of performance, the distinct characteristics of the top and bottom housings mean that each switch will deliver varying experiences depending on the user's preferences. While the Matcha Latte V2 presents a unique advantage in terms of smooth feel thanks to its POK material on top, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a sound-focused experience with a softer nylon feel. Users seeking a smooth and snappy keypress with an intriguing auditory element may lean towards the Matcha Latte V2. Conversely, those who prioritize a pronounced sound profile and a more subdued acoustic could find the nylon-centric approach of the Xinhai (Heavy) more appealing. Depending on the desired typing experience, both switches can yield satisfying results, albeit with distinctly different attributes shaping their overall appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) requires a stronger push with an actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Regarding the bottom out force, the Matcha Latte V2 does not have a specified value, while the Xinhai has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a firmer response when the key is fully pressed down. Thus, for those who prefer lighter switches for comfort during long sessions, the Matcha Latte V2 is the recommended choice, while those favoring a heavier feel may lean towards the Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Matcha Latte V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Matcha Latte V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced feel when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its shorter distance, caters to gamers or users who favor quicker response times and a more abrupt actuation. Ultimately, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) may allow for faster key presses, while the Matcha Latte V2 offers a more substantial feel for those who enjoy a thicker actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 Matcha Latte V2 switch is generally characterized by its subtlety, providing a quieter typing experience that allows for unobtrusive use, making it suitable for shared spaces or environments where noise reduction is essential. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a more distinct acoustic experience; its unique PA12 top housing contributes to a softer sound profile, while the POM stem produces a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, resulting in a more pronounced and sophisticated auditory feedback. Each switch’s sound can be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap materials, but the Matcha Latte V2 leans towards a muted sound, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) yields clearer, more pronounced tones.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Matcha Latte V2 is renowned for its smooth and subtle linear typing experience, highlighting a satisfying balance between lightness and a firm bottom-out that can create an enjoyable typing rhythm. The generous factory lubrication helps minimize stem wobble, enhancing the overall smoothness in use. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch presents a distinct tactile experience marked by its heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial feel during typing. This switch’s construction aims for precision, with its heavier spring design encouraging deliberate keystrokes that can be particularly appealing to users who favor a more pronounced feedback while typing.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer unique qualities catering to varying preferences in sound and feel. The Matcha Latte V2 excels in providing a smooth, quieter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer subtle feedback, while the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users seeking a more pronounced sound with a substantial tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, as each switch will deliver excellent performance tailored to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch or the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it’s essential to think about your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth, subtle typing experience without the fatigue of a heavier actuation force, the Matcha Latte V2 would be an excellent choice. Its light touch, combined with generous lubrication and minimal stem wobble, comes together to deliver a delightful and comfortable feel, making it perfect for long typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more deliberate typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out force, the Xinhai (Heavy) is ideal for you. With its medium actuation force and unique design elements that enhance sound quality, this switch lets you enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation, particularly suited for typing enthusiasts who enjoy a bit more resistance in their key presses. Ultimately, aligning your choice with how you utilize your keyboard — whether for everyday tasks or competitive gaming — will guide you to the best switch for your needs.
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