PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers distinct advantages tailored to various preferences. The Jacaranda, produced by KTT, is celebrated for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, which ensures a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience. Its clacky sound signature adds an auditory satisfaction, while the extended 22mm spring introduces a bouncy feel that enhances the overall typing enjoyment. On the other hand, the Matcha Latte V2 is recognized for its smooth and creamy linear operation, providing a meticulously crafted balance of lightness and solid bottom-out, along with generous factory lubrication that minimizes stem wobble for a refined typing experience. While the Jacaranda leans towards a more tactile and resonant feel, the Matcha Latte V2 promises a premium yet accessible linear performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 exhibit both distinct qualities and common traits that influence their acoustic profiles. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Its stiffness contributes to a crisper sound profile, and the translucency of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK top housing made from polyketone, which, while offering a smooth and clacky typing experience, does not evoke the same high-pitched resonance as polycarbonate. Though both top housing materials serve distinct purposes, they emphasize different acoustic characteristics, aligning them with specific user preferences for sound profiles.
On the other hand, the bottom housing for both switches is made of nylon, a material celebrated for its ability to yield a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than its stiffer counterparts, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel during keystrokes, both the Jacaranda and Matcha Latte V2 deliver a consistent depth and richness in typing feedback. Thus, while their top housings diverge in material, both switches share the robust acoustic quality provided by their nylon bottom housings.
In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Huano Matcha Latte V2 present a compelling comparison of housing materials that results in distinct auditory experiences. The polycarbonate and POK top housings create different sound profiles, highlighting either crispness or smoothness, but both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which delivers a familiar, deeper sound. This dual-material approach allows users to appreciate the nuanced differences in tactile sensation and acoustic quality while maintaining a common auditory foundation in the overall typing experience. Users seeking specific sound characteristics can select between the two offerings while still enjoying the depth that nylon provides.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, notable differences emerge regarding their actuation forces. The Jacaranda features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams, making it easier to type or game for longer periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel, which may appeal to users who favor a firmer typing experience. Additionally, the Jacaranda has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 remains unknown. This means that if users prefer the sensation of a heavier switch, they might gravitate towards the Matcha Latte V2 despite its unknown bottom out force. Overall, the Jacaranda is the lighter switch, potentially offering a more comfortable experience for extended use, while the Matcha Latte V2 provides a stronger tactile sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, we find that the Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This difference, though minimal, indicates that the Matcha Latte V2 may provide a bit more depth in feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Conversely, gamers and users who prioritize quick response times might lean towards the Jacaranda, as its shorter travel distance could offer faster actuation. Ultimately, if you seek a balance between responsiveness and depth, both switches would deliver enjoyable typing experiences, albeit with slight differences in the tactile feedback provided by their respective travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch produces a distinctly clacky and resonant auditory experience, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that is notably engaging when typing. This sharp feedback contributes to an immersive experience, making every keystroke feel lively and satisfying. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 does not have a clearly defined sound profile mentioned, suggesting it may offer a more muted or neutral sound, though the absence of specific descriptors doesn’t allow for a precise comparison. However, users can expect that both switches will respond differently depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap configuration, which can further influence their overall acoustic impact.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda is described as having a silky typing experience, elevating the smoothness of each keystroke to minimize resistance when pressing and releasing the keys. This quality enhances the overall enjoyment of typing, assuring a gentle action that is easy on the fingers. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a bouncy and creamy feel, providing a lively, spring-like feedback and a buttery smoothness due to its factory lubrication. This combination delivers a delightful tactile experience, making each press feel dynamic and responsive. While the Jacaranda emphasizes a luxurious smoothness, the Matcha Latte V2 combines that with a playful bounce, appealing to different preferences among users.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches offer unique qualitative features that cater to varying tastes. The Jacaranda excels in delivering a clacky sound and a silky smooth feel, aiming for a more luxurious typing experience. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 focuses on delivering a creamy and bouncy touch, prioritizing responsiveness while still offering a smooth experience. Ultimately, while some aspects may differ in nuance, both switches provide engaging typing experiences that could suit newcomers seeking to explore the benefits of linear switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a typing experience that is light and responsive, with a distinct auditory feedback, the Jacaranda’s clacky, resonant sound and bouncy feel might be more appealing. This switch excels for users who type often and prioritize a lively, tactile feedback that helps in reducing finger fatigue, thanks to its gentle bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother, more subtle linear experience paired with a solid bottom-out feel, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is likely your best bet. It offers a creamy texture and more consistent keypress without the added auditory distractions, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience or those who engage in long bouts of use without the need for extra tactile cues. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the atmosphere in which you’ll use your keyboard and the type of feedback that enhances your productivity and comfort.
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