Gateron Mars vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mars and Huano Matcha Latte V2 both stand out as exceptional linear options, catering to different preferences and styles of typing. The Gateron Mars is recognized for its innovative design, featuring a unique POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, which contributes to its smooth keystrokes and durability. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers a subtle linear typing experience characterized by a satisfying balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, enhanced by generous factory lubrication that minimizes stem wobble. While the Mars may appeal to users seeking cutting-edge materials and design, the Matcha Latte V2 attracts those looking for premium linear performance at an accessible price point. 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 Mars Linear

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

$3.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Mars and Huano Matcha Latte V2, notable differences arise in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Mars features a nylon top housing, renowned for producing a fuller, deeper sound profile. Due to its softer composition, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a quieter and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which offers a different acoustic characteristic. With a higher coefficient of friction, POK is engineered for smooth operation, which produces a sound profile that is clackier than that of nylon. The varying properties of these materials yield contrasting sound and tactile feedback during typing, though both materials serve to enhance the overall experience, each offering its unique texture and auditory appeal.

Turning to the bottom housings of these switches, both employ materials that further differentiate their performances in terms of sound. The Mars features a POM bottom housing, which is known for its unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. This deep sound, combined with the softness of the nylon top, creates an overall auditory experience that is rich and well-rounded. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2 opts for a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the Mars in its tendency to produce a deeper, fuller sound. This means that while the top housings differ, with the POK yielding clackiness, the bottom housings share a common trait that assists in achieving a rich sound profile. The bottom housing materials thus harmonize within each switch, balancing the auditory effects created by their respective top housings.

Ultimately, the interplay between the different materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Mars and Huano Matcha Latte V2 highlights how each contributes to the overall performance of the switches. While the Mars utilizes nylon on the top for warmth and depth with a POM bottom, the Matcha Latte V2 uses POK for smoothness alongside nylon. As a result, both switches can provide a full and satisfying auditory experience while successfully catering to distinct user preferences. Those seeking a softer, warmer sound might gravitate towards the Mars, while others who prefer a sharper clack might prefer the Matcha Latte V2, despite both ultimately delivering enjoyable typing experiences.

Weight

Both the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar effort when triggering a keystroke with either switch. However, the bottom out force for both switches remains unknown, which prevents a direct comparison in that aspect. Nevertheless, since both switches have equal actuation forces, users can anticipate a similar typing feel and responsiveness when engaging with these switches. Neither switch is definitively lighter or heavier based on the available information regarding their actuation forces alone. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, both options would be suitable, but the heavier push feel enthusiasts may find themselves wanting more information on the bottom out force to make a decision tailored to their preference.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. Since the travel distance is the same for both switches, users can expect similar tactile experiences when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This consistency means that, regardless of the choice between the two, the feel of the keystroke will remain uniform, providing a comparable performance in terms of key actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Mars switches produce a sound profile that is generally characterized as smooth and subdued. This gives them a relatively quiet typing experience, making them suitable for both home and office environments where noise may be a concern. Conversely, while the specific sound profile of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is not articulated in detail, it is known to offer a similar sound quality due to its linear nature, which typically results in a quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky switches. It's important to remember that sound can vary based on the specific keyboard and keycap material used, so both switches may present similar auditory experiences when installed in comparable settings.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars switches stand out with their unique POK stem design, contributing to a smooth linear action that minimizes friction. This switch aims to deliver an effortless keystroke with a defined but soft bottom-out. The Huano Matcha Latte V2, on the other hand, is known for its lightness combined with a solid bottom-out feel, bolstered by factory lubrication that reduces stem wobble. Users will find both switches provide a satisfying linear experience, characterized by minimal resistance throughout the keystroke, although the Mars may offer slightly different tactile nuances due to its materials and design.

Overall, both the Gateron Mars and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches cater to the preferences of those seeking linear switches, delivering a smooth and quiet typing experience. While the Gateron Mars emphasizes its unique design and potentially quieter operation, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a light yet robust feel thanks to its factory lubrication. Both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, and newcomers can expect similarities in sound and feel whether they choose one over the other, making either a solid choice for their mechanical keyboard journey.

Conclusion

To summarize, when deciding between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, your personal preferences and typing style should guide your choice. If you’re seeking a unique and innovative typing experience, the Gateron Mars, with its blend of Nylon and POM housing and distinctive POK stem design, might be the perfect fit for you. It’s ideal if you appreciate switches that stand out and want a switch that offers a different feel compared to conventional options. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more traditional linear experience that assures a satisfying bottom-out feel, the Matcha Latte V2 would likely serve you better. Its factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble promise a premium performance at an accessible price, making it a great choice for both everyday typing and gaming. Ultimately, consider your tactile preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard to make the optimal decision between these two excellent switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more