Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between two standouts: the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), both of which are linear switches renowned for their unique characteristics. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth yet subtle typing experience, striking an excellent balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, this switch delivers a premium performance that is both satisfying and accessible to new gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro stands as a paragon of budget-friendly switches, merging speed with a "thocky" sound and a satisfyingly thick resistance. Often heralded as an all-rounder, it is perfect for both gaming and typing, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious enthusiasts. While both switches offer compelling advantages, such as the Matcha Latte's smoothness and the Milky Yellow Pro's versatile and tactile feedback, it's important to consider your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), we see distinctive differences in the material used for the top housing. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes POK (polyketone), a material renowned for its smoothness and impressive durability. POK has a low coefficient of friction, contributing to a smooth typing experience while also offering remarkable wear resistance, being fourteen times stronger than POM and significantly more shock-resistant than both Nylon and POM. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro opts for a traditional nylon top housing. Although nylon is a trusted choice in the switch industry, it doesn't match the performance of POK in terms of smoothness. Instead, nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, owing to its softer nature that absorbs sound rather than reflecting it, highlighting a different auditory experience.
On the other hand, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, representing a point of similarity between the two. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing for both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Milky Yellow Pro contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile upon keypress. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively dampens sound, allowing for a more muted auditory feedback compared to harder plastics. This commonality may yield a perceived similarity in the bottoming-out sound and feel, even though the impact of the differing top housing materials will create unique experiences overall.
The nuanced differences between the top and bottom housings ultimately affect the tactile and acoustic properties of these switches. While the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes the advanced POK material to deliver a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro relies on the classic nylon to provide a fuller auditory experience. Nonetheless, because both models employ nylon in the bottom housing, certain aspects such as sound absorption and feel during keypress will maintain some consistency, leading to a shared undercurrent of performance in terms of sound profile. In essence, the interaction of the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in the overall typing feel, with the different materials contributing to distinct characteristics and experiences while typing.
Weight
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch exhibit noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Matcha Latte V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, potentially allowing for more comfortable extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Additionally, the Matcha Latte V2's bottom out force is unknown, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer resistance at the end of the keystroke, which can enhance tactile feedback. For users who appreciate a lighter switch conducive to long use, the Matcha Latte V2 would be the preferable choice, while those seeking a heavier, more pronounced typing experience might favor the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, notable differences arise. The Matcha Latte V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter of the two options, providing a more responsive feel that gamers often favor for quicker key presses. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro's longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a more substantial depth, which some users prefer for a more tactile experience. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Matcha Latte V2 would be the better choice; however, if you enjoy a deeper key press, the Milky Yellow Pro would be more suited to your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 Matcha Latte V2 switches provide an experience that is distinct yet not elaborated upon in the given descriptions. However, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is highlighted for its deep, "thocky" sound profile, which is characterized by a bass-heavy, low-pitched thud when the key is engaged. This acoustic quality not only contributes to a satisfying auditory feedback during typing but can also enhance the overall enjoyment of the keyboard experience. The sound produced by switches like the Milky Yellow Pro can be influenced by the keyboard design and keycap material, which means that users looking for a robust auditory experience may find this switch particularly appealing.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is noted for its smoothness, lightness, and solid bottom-out feel, courtesy of its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This combination yields a premium typing experience marked by fluid keystrokes and consistent resistance. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is described as buttery, which denotes a seamless and smooth actuation, complemented by a notable thickness in resistance. While both switches aim for a refined linear experience, the Matcha Latte V2 may deliver a subtly different sensation due to its focus on lightness and feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a very defined tactile point with each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Matcha Latte V2 and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches offer unique qualities that can elevate the typing experience, albeit in different ways. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smoothness and solid feel, while the Milky Yellow Pro stands out with its pleasingly thocky sound and buttery keystrokes. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but both switches provide excellent options for newcomers seeking to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, your decision should hinge on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you’re looking for an ultra-smooth and light typing experience with minimal resistive feedback and a premium feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is likely your best bet. Its generous factory lubrication and solid bottom-out sensation make it ideal for those who enjoy a whisper-quiet keyboard with a balanced actuation feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a thicker and more tactile resistance paired with a rich, bassy sound, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will serve you well. Its all-around capabilities make it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing, especially if you enjoy that satisfying "thocky" feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a super smooth, light switch or a more resistive, tactile experience; both options offer unique benefits that can enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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