Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to distinct characteristics that cater to differing preferences and typing experiences. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch renowned for its pronounced tactile bump and a deep, resonant sound signature that can enhance the typing experience with feedback that is both enjoyable and invigorating. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 sets itself apart as a linear switch, offering a smooth and seamless typing experience marked by a delicate balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, the Matcha Latte V2 delivers premium performance without breaking the bank. While tactile switches like the Creamy Purple Pro may appeal to those who value audible feedback and pronounced tactile sensations, linear switches such as the Matcha Latte V2 are often favored by typists seeking a quieter and more fluid keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches feature distinct materials in their top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles and performance. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This combination results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it particularly ideal for users looking to enhance RGB lighting effects due to the clear nature of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 opts for a POK material as its top housing, which offers a smoother typing experience due to its lower coefficient of friction. While its acoustic profile leans towards clackiness rather than crispness, the POK material boasts exceptional durability and wear resistance, contributing to its overall performance longevity.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, a choice that creates similarities in their acoustic characteristics. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder bottom-out sound. This similarity effectively balances the distinct sound profiles introduced by the top housings. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. This is especially beneficial as users will enjoy a consistent bottom-out feel when pressing down the keys, maintaining an overall sound depth that is characteristic of nylon's acoustic properties.
When considering the combined effects of these housing materials, it becomes evident that the unique characteristics of each switch will manifest during use. The sharper sound of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro will likely be noticeable during key releases due to the polycarbonate top, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 will offer a smoother, clackier response. However, as both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they will ultimately deliver a full-bodied sound, balancing their disparate tonal qualities to ensure a cohesive experience. Thus, users can expect both switches to offer delightful auditory feedback, albeit through different sound signatures influenced by their top housing choices.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an actuation force of 30 grams, making it a lighter option ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, as the reduced resistance can lessen finger fatigue. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which caters to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force of the Matcha Latte V2 is unavailable, leaving us without a comparative measure for that particular aspect. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro's bottom out force is 50 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully depress the key compared to its actuation force. Overall, those who favor a lighter touch will likely prefer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while those who enjoy a heftier response may gravitate toward the Matcha Latte V2.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is 3 mm, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro the shorter of the two switches, providing a quicker response time that many gamers may favor for better performance. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 with its longer travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback, offering a sense of depth that some find preferable for a more satisfying typing experience. Thus, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Akko V3 would be the ideal choice, whereas those who prefer a heartier feel might lean towards the Huano Matcha Latte.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch produces a notably loud sound signature with a bassy pitch, which can be quite invigorating and engaging while typing. This acoustics quality is often favored by those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during their keystrokes. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switch offers a more subdued sound, characteristic of linear switches, where the sound is less prominent and more muted. Its smooth operation contributes to a quieter typing experience, making these switches ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. However, it’s important to remember that the ultimate sound profile of each switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the materials used for the keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is equipped with a significant tactile bump that provides a distinct feedback when actuated, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile sensation during typing. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and aid in a more engaged typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is designed for a linear experience, characterized by its smooth travel and minimal resistance. The feel is subtle yet satisfying, with a solid bottom-out that provides a comforting end to each keystroke without the tactile interruption found in the Creamy Purple Pro. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 perfect for users who prefer a seamless and fluid typing motion.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Creamy Purple Pro excels in delivering a pronounced tactile feedback and a louder, bassier sound, while the Matcha Latte V2 provides a smooth and quiet linear feel with its soothing operation. Depending on your typing style and environmental needs, both switches can provide enjoyable experiences, whether you prefer the tactile engagement of the Creamy Purple Pro or the fluidity of the Matcha Latte V2.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy typing that is characterized by a pronounced tactile bump and a louder, bass-heavy sound signature, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice. Its light 50-gram bottom-out force makes it beginner-friendly while providing an engaging feedback loop for typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter experience with a subtle, linear feel, then the Matcha Latte V2 is your go-to option. With its premium linear performance, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, this switch is ideal for those who want a more serene typing experience, whether for coding, long writing sessions, or gaming without the distraction of noisy tactile feedback. Ultimately, considering these aspects will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your typing style and environment.
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