Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 present two compelling options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its beautiful translucent design and a smoother, lighter typing feel that stands out among its peers, offering a distinctively clacky and high-pitched sound that creates an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a more subtle linear typing experience, characterized by a satisfying balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out that gives users a firm response with every keystroke. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice for those seeking consistent performance without breaking the bank. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Ink Box Pink appealing to those who enjoy a lively, sound-focused experience, while the Matcha Latte V2 caters to those who favor a smooth and premium feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, we find distinct differences in their compositions that significantly influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a clacky, high-pitched sound profile that is both satisfying and engaging during typing. This sound characteristic is attributed to the pointed design and the specific properties of the INK material, which combines a unique balance of rigidity and resonance. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 features a POK material for its top housing and a nylon bottom housing. While the POK material also promotes a clacky sound, the nylon's softer nature results in a deeper, rounder sound, showcasing how different materials can create varied auditory experiences even within the same switch configuration.

In terms of durability, the differences between the materials used in these two switches present another layer of contrast. The POK top housing in the Matcha Latte V2 is touted for its exceptional strength, boasting wear resistance up to 14 times stronger than POM and significantly better shock resistance than nylon. This superior durability contributes to a long-lasting typing experience, particularly for users who may frequently bottom out their keys. The Gateron Ink Box Pink, while still offering durability through its INK blend, does not possess the same extreme resilience attributes as the POK material. Therefore, users considering longevity and resistance to wear and tear may find the Matcha Latte V2's combinations more appealing.

Despite their differences, there remains a common ground between the Ink Box Pink and the Matcha Latte V2, particularly in terms of the pressing and releasing experiences offered by these switches. While the Ink Box Pink achieves an appealing high-pitched sound through its uniform INK blend, the Matcha Latte V2's combination of POK and nylon allows for a unique split sound profile that still retains a satisfying clack when actuated. The profound impact of the bottom housing is evident; the nylon's sound-dampening properties will soften the overall auditory signature during bottom-out, while the POK material ensures that release characteristics still give off that familiar satisfying clack. Thus, users may find that, despite the materials being different, they can achieve a similarly engaging typing experience with both switches, albeit through different acoustic signatures.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces, as well as an unknown factor regarding the bottom out force of the latter. The Ink Box Pink boasts an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option suitable for those who appreciate a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may be better for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as less effort is required to register each keystroke. However, without the specified bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2, we cannot make a direct comparison there; it could be comparable or fall below the Ink Box Pink's 60 grams. Overall, if a lighter switch is preferred, the Matcha Latte V2 would be the better choice, while the Ink Box Pink would cater to those who desire a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they have identical distances from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and response when typing or gaming with either switch, providing a uniform experience in their keystroke depth. Consequently, whether you choose the Ink Box Pink or the Matcha Latte V2, you will achieve similar results in terms of switch travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are characterized by a bright, high-pitched clack that offers a sharp and snappy auditory response when pressed. This makes them appealing to users who prefer a crisp, percussive sound profile over the deeper, bassy qualities some other switches offer. In contrast, the sound profile of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches is not specifically detailed; however, it can be noted that their construction does lend itself to a more muted auditory experience due to their smooth and subtle nature. This means that while the Ink Box Pink delivers a more vibrant acoustic performance, the Matcha Latte V2 might be quieter and less pronounced in sound, appealing to those who prefer a simpler auditory backdrop while typing.

In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switches shine with their silky and polished typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance and smooth key travel. This refined touch provides a sensation that enhances the overall typing experience, making them a well-rounded choice for frequent typists. The Matcha Latte V2 is designed to balance lightness with a solid bottom-out feel, allowing for a comfortable typing experience that feels dependable without sacrificing responsiveness. Although the details on the tactile qualities of the Matcha Latte V2 are less thoroughly described, their generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble suggest a smooth operation that can still compete with the polished feel of the Ink Box Pink.

Overall, users choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches will reap distinct benefits from each option. The Ink Box Pink provides a lively and bright sound along with an exceptionally smooth feel, suitable for those who enjoy an energetic typing experience. The Matcha Latte V2 offers a subtle balance of sound and feel with its firm yet smooth linear typing experience and minimal noise. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, but they can deliver satisfying results depending on what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing. If you enjoy a lighter typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky sound that provides a bit of auditory feedback, then the Ink Box Pink is likely the better fit for you. Its silky and polished qualities contribute to an exceptionally smooth experience, making it a great choice for those who value both a pleasant auditory profile and tactile satisfaction while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and harmonious linear experience that emphasizes a solid yet balanced feel without excessive sound, the Matcha Latte V2 may suit you better. Its generous factory lubrication minimizes stem wobble and enhances overall performance, perfect for users who favor a quiet workspace or long periods of typing without distraction. By determining your priorities in sound and typing feel, you can confidently choose the right switch for your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more