Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly enhance your typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch that stands out with its thoughtfully designed gentle bump, providing just enough feedback to enrich the typing flow without being overwhelming. This switch is especially appealing for those who appreciate a blend of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, complemented by a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 caters to fans of linear switches, offering a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a deliberate balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, these switches promise a premium linear experience at an accessible price. Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Matcha Latte V2 hinges on your personal preference for tactile feedback versus smoothness in keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, notable differences emerge between their top housings. The G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic stems from polycarbonate's stiffness, allowing for a clear and resonant acoustic quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting setups, making it an appealing choice for users seeking both performance and aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK top housing, which is known for being incredibly smooth and durable. While POK offers a slightly higher coefficient of friction, resulting in a different texture feeling when typing, it excels in shock resistance and overall durability. Thus, while both materials lend themselves to unique auditory experiences, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's polycarbonate is positioned to deliver a more vibrant sound, whereas the Matcha Latte V2's POK material provides a smooth, smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, presenting an interesting point of similarity. Nylon is a traditional choice in switch manufacturing known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer characteristics. As both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Matcha Latte V2 utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect similar auditory feedback when pressing down on the switches, as the nylon's natural sound-absorbing qualities contribute to a rounded, rich sound regardless of the distinct top housing materials. This shared use of nylon underscores a foundational aspect of both switches that appeals to users seeking a warm, full sound while typing.
Ultimately, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 exhibit contrasting qualities in their top housings—each greatly influencing their sound profiles—the insulating effects of the nylon bottom housing serve as a common thread, creating a harmonious acoustic experience when engaging with the switches. The combination of a sharper sound from the polycarbonate top in the G Pro 3.0 and the smoother touch from the POK material in the Matcha Latte V2 illustrates the personalized typing sensations each switch can offer. Thus, even with different top housings contributing distinctive auditory qualities, the similar nylon bottom construction ensures users will still enjoy a consistent sound signature prominently characterized by depth and fullness across both options.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch to the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, a notable difference in actuation force is evident. The G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a force of 55 grams to activate, while the Matcha Latte V2 is lighter at 45 grams. This distinction suggests that users who prefer a lighter switch might favor the Matcha Latte V2 for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's higher actuation force provides a more substantial push, appealing to those who appreciate a firmer typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a heavier overall feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown, leaving its fully pressed feel undetermined. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option overall, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a lighter actuation force, catering to differing preferences in typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 features a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This difference may influence user experience significantly: those who prefer a more satisfying, deeper actuation might favor the G Pro 3.0 Brown due to its traditional travel distance, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Matcha Latte V2, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness. In essence, if you lean toward a swift gaming experience, the Matcha Latte V2 would be the better choice, while those seeking a fuller pressing experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Brown more to their liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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
When examining the sound profile of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch, it offers a medium-high pitch that provides satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience without being overly distracting. This quality makes it enjoyable for both typists and gamers alike, contributing a nuanced sound that fits well in various environments. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is not explicitly described in terms of sound, which leaves some uncertainty regarding its auditory characteristics. However, it is essential to remember that the sound produced by any switch can be significantly influenced by the keyboard's construction, keycaps, and overall assembly, meaning users may still adjust the auditory experience to their liking regardless of the switch type.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, with a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This makes it particularly comfortable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing responsiveness. The switch is designed with a mild tactile bump, which is more subtle than that found in more pronounced tactile switches. The stepped response allows users to experience a distinguishable point throughout the keystroke without overwhelming feedback. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 focuses on delivering a smooth and linear typing experience characterized by a balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. Though it lacks any tactile feedback, generous factory lubrication and minimized stem wobble ensure a premium typing experience, albeit differently than the tactile sensation provided by the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches provide a tactile experience with a pleasing sound profile that offers auditory satisfaction, particularly for those who enjoy the tactile feedback during typing. Meanwhile, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 excels in smoothness and linearity, tailored for users who prefer a straightforward keypress with less tactile sensation. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences—tactile vs. linear—they can be successfully integrated into satisfying builds depending on individual typing styles and environmental needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate tactile feedback and are looking for a switch that provides a gentle and pleasant bump, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams strikes a balance, ensuring a comfortable typing experience while minimizing finger fatigue during long sessions. The sound profile offers a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment, making it particularly appealing if you enjoy the sensation of feeling your keys engage. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear typing experience devoid of tactile bumps, the Matcha Latte V2 is the way to go. With generous lubrication and a focus on a light yet solid bottom-out feel, these switches are designed for those who favor a seamless glide with minimal stem wobble. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 ideal for fast typists or gamers who seek rapid key presses. Ultimately, consider what you prioritize most in your typing experience—tactility or smoothness—to find the switch that will best serve your needs.
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