TTC Gold Brown vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 stand out, each offering unique benefits tailored to different typing preferences. The TTC Gold Brown is celebrated for its balanced feel, providing a tactile bump that enhances typing feedback without overwhelming the user. With a moderate weightiness and a rounded, soft sound profile, it appeals to those who enjoy a classic typing experience that combines a gentle touch with a sophisticated auditory cue. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 excels in delivering a smooth, linear typing experience, perfect for gamers and typists who prefer an unbroken keystroke. Its light touch and solid bottom-out feel, along with generous factory lubrication to reduce friction, make it a great choice for long typing sessions where speed and fluidity are crucial. While the Gold Brown offers tactile feedback that many find satisfying and reassuring, the Matcha Latte V2 caters to those seeking seamless keystrokes and minimal distraction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, distinct differences emerge in the top housing but similarities in the bottom housing. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a brighter and crisper sound profile, especially beneficial for those who prefer a more pronounced high-pitched tone during keystrokes. Additionally, the polycarbonate's transparency makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts, allowing light to diffuse effectively through the switch. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK top housing, a material renowned for its smoothness and impressive durability. Although POK isn't translucent like polycarbonate, it offers a low coefficient of friction that promotes a slick keystroke experience, lending itself to a less defined yet refined sound profile.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, a classic choice in the switch manufacturing realm. The nylon material contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, effectively absorbing sound waves and thereby generating a softer bottom-out feel. This shared characteristic means that regardless of the top housing material—be it polycarbonate or POK—both switches will deliver a robust and muted sound experience that many typists and gamers find appealing.
The contrasting properties of the top housings coupled with the similar nylon bottom housings create a unique sound signature for each switch. The Gold Brown, with its polycarbonate top, promises a sharper sound when keys are released, while the Matcha Latte V2's POK top offers a smoother touch and sound output. However, due to the nylon bottom housing shared by both switches, users can expect a cohesive downtempo sound on bottoming out, making each switch capable of providing enjoyable tactile feedback. Thus, combining the strengths of their respective top materials with the familiar characteristics of nylon results in a delightful typing experience, albeit with unique auditory nuances based on the top housing choices.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium force switch. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is not specified, leaving that aspect unknown. Given that the Gold Brown's bottom out force is relatively higher, it may appeal to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter key feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is the better choice, while the TTC Gold Brown caters to those who enjoy a heavier, more robust keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, it’s clear that they differ significantly. The Gold Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional feel that many users appreciate for its hearty depth. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who prefer a more responsive experience, particularly gamers who benefit from quicker actuation. Thus, while the Gold Brown is the longer option, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a shorter, more immediate feedback. Users seeking responsiveness may lean towards the Matcha Latte, while those who enjoy a deeper engagement might favor the Gold Brown.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Gold Brown and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences. The Gold Brown has a rounded sound profile characterized as neutral, which means it produces a moderate level of noise that is suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office setting. It strikes a balance that appeals to both beginners and advanced users, delivering a pleasant yet unobtrusive typing sound. In contrast, the specifics of the Matcha Latte V2's sound profile are unknown, but it is implied that its linear design might render it quieter or less resonant compared to more tactile options, potentially aligning it with a smoother acoustic experience. Ultimately, the Gold Brown's softer sound may contribute to a quieter workspace, while the Matcha Latte V2 could offer a different, subtler auditory quality.
Regarding feel, the Gold Brown tactile switch is defined by a mild and buttery characteristic, providing a gentle yet satisfying typing experience. It offers a smooth keystroke with an accented tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor scratchy, making it approachable for nearly every user. The quality of being polished adds to its luxurious typing sensation, resulting in reduced friction and more effortless key travel. For the Matcha Latte V2, while the specific details about its feel aren't provided, the linear switch design suggests it may lack the tactile bump present in the Gold Brown, offering instead a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This likely results in a less pronounced tactile feedback but maintains a high level of sophistication and ease during typing.
In summary, while both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they each offer their unique advantages. The TTC Gold Brown is lauded for its balanced sound and tactile response, making it a versatile choice for both typists and gamers. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 provides a smooth linear option, prioritizing a seamless typing experience. Depending on personal preferences—whether one leans toward tactile feedback or a purely linear feel—either switch can satisfy a range of typing desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between TTC Gold Brown tactile switches and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches really depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a balanced typing experience with noticeable tactile feedback, the Gold Brown is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams and softer sound profile create a satisfying yet unobtrusive interaction, making it suitable for both work and casual use. You might opt for the Gold Brown if you appreciate a mild tactile bump while you type, providing a sense of engagement without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a seamless, smooth keystroke experience, the Matcha Latte V2 could be the better option. With its generous factory lubrication and solid bottom-out feel, it offers a buttery and polished performance that is ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity. If you're looking for a linear switch that delivers premium performance without pronounced tactility, the Matcha Latte V2 will likely suit you better. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you favor the tactile feedback of the Gold Brown or the smoothness of the Matcha Latte V2, making it essential to consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and environment.
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