Huano Elf vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and the Huano Elf and Huano Matcha Latte V2 both cater to distinct needs while offering linear experiences. The Huano Elf switch is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and provides a deep sound signature that pairs well with its medium-light actuation force, creating a satisfying typing experience that many find appealing. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 stands out with its smooth and creamy typing experience, boasting generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, which contribute to a solid bottom-out feel while maintaining an accessible price point. While the Elf is ideal for those who appreciate unique acoustics and a more tactile feedback, the Matcha Latte V2 attracts users looking for a bouncier, more fluid keystroke. However, to make the best choice for your typing style and preferences, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, it is evident that both switches utilize the same material for their top housing, which is polyketone (POK). The similarities in the POK top housing are significant; both switches share the same low coefficient of friction of 0.04, making them exceptionally smooth during key presses. Additionally, the impressive durability of the POK material, with its superior wear and shock resistance, enhances the overall typing experience, resulting in smooth, clacky, and robust switches. This consistency in top housing material means users can expect a very similar feel and performance from both switches, particularly in terms of the tactile feedback and sound when releasing keys.

In contrast, while the top housings are identical, both the Huano Elf and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, while both switches offer a similar top housing experience in terms of smoothness and durability, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more rounded and subdued sound when the keys are actuated. This places an emphasis on the overall sound profile of the switches that users can expect when typing, which will be influenced by the nylon's acoustic properties.

Ultimately, the effect of the differing materials on the overall sound and feel of these switches is multifaceted. The top POK housing will primarily impact the sound when keys are released, giving both switches a smooth auditory exit. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing will deliver a rich, deeper sound when the keys bottom out, creating a harmonious balance between the two materials. Therefore, despite some differences in sound profiles due to the bottom housing, users can expect an overall cohesive typing experience across both switch types, characterized by smooth operation from the POK material and the warm sound signature provided by the nylon.

Weight

The Huano Elf linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch offer distinct feelings in terms of actuation force, with the Elf requiring 42 grams to trigger a keystroke and the Matcha Latte V2 necessitating a slightly heavier 45 grams. This difference indicates that the Matcha Latte V2 provides a more substantial push feel, which may appeal to users enjoying a firmer typing experience. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, which limits our ability to directly compare their bottoming out characteristics; therefore, we cannot assess how they feel when fully pressed down. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Huano Elf would be the more suitable choice, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 would cater to users seeking a heavier actuation for more tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Elf linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches have identical travel distances, typing on a keyboard with either option will yield comparable results in terms of key actuation depth. As a result, users can expect a consistent performance regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Elf switch showcases a deep sound signature that contributes to a richer auditory experience during typing. The POK top housing is designed to enhance acoustics, making each keystroke resonate with a satisfying depth. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switch is crafted to provide a smooth and subtle auditory profile that emphasizes a quieter typing experience. While both switches might offer pleasing sounds, the Elf leans towards a more pronounced acoustic output compared to the softer tones characteristic of the Matcha Latte V2. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Elf switch delivers a medium-light tactile response, allowing for an enjoyable, satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and control. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a more complex sensation, described as both bouncy and creamy. The bounciness provides a lively, spring-like feedback upon key activation, making it engaging for users who appreciate a touch of responsiveness. Meanwhile, the creamy aspect ensures a silky smoothness in each keystroke, attributed to generous factory lubrication and careful design that minimizes stem wobble. Together, these qualities create a luxurious feel that many users find appealing.

In conclusion, while the Huano Elf switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switch differ in their sound profiles—where Elf is deeper and more resonant and Matcha Latte V2 is subtler—they each provide enjoyable typing experiences. The Elf features a comfortable, medium-light feel, whereas the Matcha Latte V2 combines bounce and creaminess for a more dynamic touch. Overall, each switch caters to distinct preferences, allowing newcomers to find a linear switch that aligns with their desired auditory and tactile experiences. Whether drawn to the deep acoustics of the Elf or the smoothness of the Matcha Latte V2, users can expect satisfying results based on their choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, your preferences and typing style should guide your decision. If you are someone who enjoys a medium-light feel and values a deep sound signature, the Elf might be the perfect fit for you. With its specialized POK top housing, it delivers an acoustically pleasing typing experience that many users find satisfying, particularly if they appreciate a less rigid tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and creamy typing experience with minimal stem wobble, then the Matcha Latte V2 is likely the better choice. Its bouncy feel paired with a solid bottom-out sensation provides an enjoyable, spring-like feedback that makes typing effortless. This switch also excels in providing a premium linear performance due to its factory lubrication, making it an excellent option for those who want a high-quality typing experience at an affordable price. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider which qualities—acoustic depth or smoothness—are more appealing to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more