Durock Ice King Tactile vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between tactile and linear switches can significantly affect your typing experience, and two standout options are the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Huano Matcha Latte V2. The Ice King Tactile excels at creating a refined tactile experience, characterized by a creamy smoothness and a well-defined tactile bump that elevates the act of typing beyond mere functionality. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy feedback with every keystroke, merging enjoyment with efficiency in a polished package. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is designed for those who prefer a fluid, uninterrupted typing experience. Its smooth action, combined with a balanced lightness and solid bottom-out feel, makes it an excellent choice for users who value a seamless transition between keystrokes. Both switches bring their unique character to the table—one offering a delightful tactile sensation and the other delivering effortless linearity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
58g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, significant differences can be seen in the choice of top housing material. The Ice King Tactile utilizes nylon for its top housing, a classic option known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness allows it to absorb sound effectively, making the typing experience feel rounder and more muted. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 employs a POK material, also known as polyketone, which is recognized for its exceptional durability and lower friction coefficient. While nylon attracts a softer sound profile, POK contributes to a smoother and somewhat clackier experience, showcasing a distinct auditory character in each switch despite their functional similarities.
When looking at the bottom housings, an interesting convergence can be found—both the Ice King Tactile and Matcha Latte V2 use nylon for their bottom housing. This uniformity leads to a similar experience concerning sound absorption and overall feel when bottoming out keys. As nylon is consistently characterized by its softness, both switches will deliver a fuller sound when the key is fully pressed, maintaining a muted quality that users may expect. This commonality in material choice ensures that, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches produce a comparable bottom-out sound, contributing to the overall tactile experience.
The overall impact of the different top housing materials, nylon for the Ice King and POK for the Matcha Latte, is essential to underline. The Ice King Tactile’s softer nylon brings about a classic muted sound and feel when keys are released, while the POK top housing of the Matcha Latte V2 enhances the tactile feedback with a smoother, more pronounced auditory response. This duality means that while both switches offer appealing characteristics, they cater to different typing preferences. Users looking for a richer sound profile may favor the Ice King Tactile, while those in pursuit of a smoother and more durable experience might gravitate toward the Matcha Latte V2. In essence, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing providing commonality in sound impact, the dissimilarities in top housing materials create unique sensory experiences for keyboard users.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch offer distinct tactile experiences, particularly when comparing their actuation forces. The Ice King Tactile features a medium-heavy actuation force of 58 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 is designed with a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press and potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. While the Ice King has a specified bottom out force of 68 grams, the Matcha Latte V2 does not have a recorded bottom out force, leaving some uncertainty about its overall resistance when fully pressed. This means that keyboards equipped with the Ice King switches will provide a heavier tactile feedback compared to the lighter, more effortless feel of the Huano Matcha Latte V2, catering to different user preferences. For those who enjoy a lighter feel in their keyboards, the Matcha Latte V2 would likely be the better choice, while the Ice King Tactile would be ideal for users seeking a more pronounced tactile response.
Travel distance
The Durock Ice King Tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ice King Tactile the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers looking for quicker actuation times. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2's greater depth could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, offering a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches provide a compelling option for users, the choice between them will depend on personal preference regarding tactile feedback and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 it comes to sound, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch delivers a more subdued auditory profile. This means it has a dampened sound when pressed, providing a quieter typing experience that won’t be overly distracting in a shared workspace. While it’s not entirely silent, the subdued nature allows for a more subtle sound signature compared to other switches. In contrast, specific sound characteristics of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch are not detailed, making it difficult to directly compare sound quality; however, linear switches are typically known for their smooth and quiet operation. Therefore, you can expect that, while the Ice King Tactile may offer a slightly more audible experience, the Matcha Latte’s linear nature could also lend itself to a quieter overall sound.
Regarding feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness, frictionless action, and pronounced tactile bump. This combination creates an engaging tactile experience, where users can appreciate the clear differentiation between pre-travel and post-travel due to its stepped design. The polished finish enhances the typing feel even further by reducing friction and ensuring fluid keystrokes—a hallmark of a high-quality tactile switch. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch lacks any specific descriptors regarding feel. Generally, linear switches are known for their uninterrupted key travel without tactile bumps, resulting in a seamless typing experience. Without detailed information, one can assume that while the Ice King Tactile aims for a sophisticated tactile experience, the Matcha Latte V2 focuses on providing enjoyable linear feedback.
In conclusion, while the Durock Ice King Tactile excels in both sound and feel with its subdued auditory output and a complex tactile experience, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch showcases a focus on smooth linear performance. The overall experience you choose will depend on whether you prefer the tactile feedback and sound nuances of the Ice King or the smooth, quiet performance typically associated with linear switches like the Matcha Latte. Each switch has its unique attributes, and your choice will ultimately reflect personal preferences in typing style and sound preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Durock Ice King Tactile and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches should reflect your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you crave a tactile experience that combines a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile switch is a superb choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 68 grams provides a satisfying resistance that enhances your typing rhythm, making it ideal for those who want to feel each keystroke distinctly while still enjoying a silky, frictionless travel. The subdued sound signature adds to a pleasant auditory experience without being obtrusive, making it suitable for both quiet workspaces and more dynamic environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear typing experience characterized by smoothness and subtlety, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 would be your go-to option. These switches offer a balanced feel with lightness and a satisfying bottom-out, enhanced by generous factory lubrication that minimizes stem wobble. This makes them perfect for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming, where a seamless keystroke is essential. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you want the tactile feedback and richer sensory experience of the Ice King Tactile or the gliding efficiency of the Matcha Latte V2—each offers distinct advantages tailored to different typing styles.
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