Durock Dolphin vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2

Overview

When comparing the Durock Dolphin and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches, both options stand out with their unique characteristics tailored for distinct typing preferences. The Durock Dolphin is celebrated for its quiet operation, making it a fantastic choice for office settings or any workspace where maintaining low noise levels is crucial. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, it strikes a compelling balance between resistance and a satisfying press, appealing to users who prefer a slightly firmer touch while typing. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers an incredibly smooth and light typing experience, enhanced by factory lubrication that minimizes stem wobble. This results in a plush bottom-out feel, ideal for those seeking a more effortless typing experience at an accessible price point. Both switches provide unique benefits catering to different user needs—whether you prioritize noise reduction and tactile feedback or smoothness and lightness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Dolphin Linear

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

$3.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Dolphin and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects the acoustic profiles of each switch. The Dolphin features a polycarbonate top housing, celebrated for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer construction. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 employs a POK (polyketone) top housing that, while also high-performing, offers its distinct advantages through exceptional smoothness and durability attributed to its low coefficient of friction. Although both materials contribute to a clear sound, the unique properties of polycarbonate enhance RGB lighting effects with its translucent quality, whereas POK focuses on delivering durability and a smooth typing experience. Consequently, while both switches deliver enjoyable auditory feedback, they do so through different strengths.

In terms of their bottom housings, both the Durock Dolphin and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 utilize nylon, a common choice that results in a fuller and deeper sound profile. The nylon material is softer compared to the stiffer alternatives, allowing both switches to absorb more sound, which creates a rounded acoustic output. This similarity in bottom housing indicates that users will experience a consistent richness in sound across both models. As a result, irrespective of the top housing's material differences, the foundational qualities of the nylon bottom housing ensure that users can expect a similar bottom-out feel and sound profile when typing on either switch.

The combination of the differing top housing materials with the consistent nylon bottom housings illustrates how the overall sound and typing experience can be finely tuned. While the polycarbonate of the Dolphin's top housing offers a sharper sound upon release, complemented by the deeper tones of its nylon bottom, the Matcha Latte V2's POK top focuses on providing a smooth and clacky sound without losing the depth from its nylon bottom. Therefore, enthusiasts can anticipate diverse tactile experiences and auditory feedback from these two switches, while the commonality in nylon ensures that the deeper, fuller sound profile remains a shared trait in both models.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dolphin switch exhibits a bottom out force of 62 grams, which positions it as a medium-weight option that may appeal to users looking for a more tactile feel. However, its actuation force is unknown, which leaves some uncertainty about how light or heavy the initial keystroke will feel. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 has a well-defined actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter of the two options. Although its bottom out force is also unavailable, the known actuation force suggests that it will offer a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended use during typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, users seeking a heavier, more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the Durock Dolphin, while those preferring a lighter touch may find the Huano Matcha Latte V2 more appealing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, we see a slight difference: the Dolphin has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 a better option for gamers or users seeking faster response times due to its more responsive action. In contrast, those who enjoy a more pronounced feel and depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Durock Dolphin, given its longer travel distance. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, users looking for an ideal balance of responsiveness and tactile feedback will find the differences significant when choosing between these two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Durock Dolphin linear switch is notably muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to more traditional mechanical switches. This low-pitched sound gives the Dolphin a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it an excellent choice for quieter environments like offices where noise levels are a concern. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches lack a specific sound descriptor in the provided information. However, being a linear switch, one might expect the sound to be relatively subdued, though the actual sound will likely vary depending on the keyboard build and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the Durock Dolphin switches are characterized by their polished design, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes friction during key travel. This results in a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, which provides a satisfying resistance for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Unfortunately, the feel aspect of the Matcha Latte V2 switches is not detailed, which leaves it unclear how they compare in terms of tactile feedback or resistance. However, given that they are designed for a smooth typing experience as well, they may offer a comfortable feel similar to the Dolphins.

In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin linear switches stand out for their muted, low-pitched sound and polished, smooth feel combined with a medium-heavy actuation force. While the Matcha Latte V2 switches promise a smooth linear experience, the specifics on their sound and feel characteristics are absent, making direct comparisons difficult. Both switches offer distinct advantages, with the Dolphins catering well to quieter workspaces, while the Matcha Latte V2 may also provide a satisfying typing experience despite the lack of detailed sound information. Ultimately, either choice can deliver quality performance, depending on personal preference for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific use cases. If you frequently type in shared spaces or work environments where noise reduction is essential, the Durock Dolphins offer a muted sound profile and a satisfying 62g actuation force that balances resistance with feedback, making them an excellent choice for a peaceful workspace. Their polished feel adds to the overall pleasant typing experience, offering smooth key travel that many users appreciate. On the other hand, if you're looking for an efficient switch with a lightweight and smooth typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 is ideal. Though the exact bottom-out force is unavailable, its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble contribute to a premium linear feel, making it suitable for quicker, less forceful typing sessions. Considering these factors will help you decide which switch best suits your keyboard needs.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Dolphin Linear

$6.87

$5.41 per 10

Learn more

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more