Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Cherry MX Black offer two distinct yet appealing options for fans of linear switches. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth typing experience, striking a balance between light actuation and a satisfying bottom-out feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a responsive yet subtle touch during long typing sessions. Additionally, its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble enhance the overall performance while keeping it budget-friendly. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switches have a robust reputation for their deep sound profile and textured smoothness, thanks to Cherry's advanced Hyperglide tooling, which has refined the classic design. With a noticeably stiffer actuation, these switches are often favored by gamers and typists seeking greater resistance and durability. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them suitable for a variety of users. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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 switch and the Cherry MX Black switch, significant differences are noted, particularly in their top housings. The Matcha Latte V2 employs a POK material for its top housing, which is highly praised for its low friction coefficient of 0.04, thus ensuring a remarkably smooth keystroke experience. This contrasts with the Cherry MX Black’s top housing, made from nylon, known for its sound-absorbing properties that provide a softer and rounder acoustic profile. While both materials serve the function of enhancing user interaction with the switches, POK's superior strength and durability likely lead to a more robust performance over time, especially in terms of wear resistance and shock absorption compared to the traditional nylon used in the MX Black.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Cherry MX Black utilize nylon, which adds a layer of similarity between the two switches. Nylon’s inherent softness plays a significant role in shaping the sound quality, producing a fuller and deeper tone that is characteristic of switches made from this material. Consequently, both switches would produce a clacky sound when typing, given that the nylon bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, minimizing harsh acoustics. This shared material provides users with a consistent auditory experience when bottoming out the keys, regardless of the differing top housing materials.
The combined effects of the top and bottom housings reveal a nuanced interplay in both switch designs. Even though the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Cherry MX Black differ in their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing commonality means that users can still expect a similarly rich auditory experience when pressing down on both switches. The Matcha Latte V2’s POK top housing introduces a smooth action during the keypress, enhancing the tactile feedback when releasing the keys, while the MX Black’s nylon top retains the classic feel and sound. Thus, while the materials vary, the overall user experience retains similarities, making each switch appealing in its own right while catering to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Cherry MX Black requires a heavier push at 60 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Matcha Latte V2 to be more comfortable. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 remains unknown, while the MX Black has a definitive bottom out force of 80 grams, which is considered heavy. Therefore, for users seeking a more substantial typing experience with increased resistance, the Cherry MX Black would be the appropriate choice. Overall, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a lighter actuation feel, ideal for prolonged use, while the MX Black caters to those who enjoy a firmer push.
Travel distance
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance results in the Matcha Latte V2 offering a slightly more responsive feel, which may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker actuations. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black, with its deeper travel, may be favored by those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress and a traditional typing experience. For individuals seeking a balance between responsiveness and depth, the Matcha Latte V2's distance might provide an appealing middle ground, but overall, the Cherry MX Black is the longer option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 comes in at $3.99, whereas the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00.
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 switch is known for its smooth, subtle auditory feedback that complements its linear typing experience. It tends to produce a fairly neutral sound profile, which may not be as pronounced as other switch types, making it less distracting in quieter environments. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black offers a low-pitched sound, characterized by a deep and bass-heavy tone. This gives the MX Black a more robust auditory experience, making it feel more substantial with each keystroke. Both sound profiles are influenced by additional variables like keycap material and the keyboard's construction, but the distinct qualities of each switch can create differing ambient sounds.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is designed to offer a smooth and balanced typing experience, featuring generous factory lubrication that minimizes stem wobble. This results in a pleasant and refined tactile sensation as you type, striking a balance between lightness and a satisfying bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is characterized by its textured feel and stiffness, requiring a more substantial amount of force to actuate. The noticeable friction while pressing the keys adds a tactile element that some users appreciate, although it diverges from the smoother experience of the Matcha Latte V2.
In conclusion, when comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Cherry MX Black switches, each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 provides a quieter, smoother typing experience with minimal stem wobble, while the Cherry MX Black delivers a deeper, more textured sound and requires more force to actuate, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound and typing experience; both can yield satisfying results based on what the user prioritizes in their mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, your preferences and typing style will play a crucial role in your decision. If you favor a smoother typing experience with a lightweight feel and minimal stem wobble, the Matcha Latte V2 is likely your best bet. Its balanced performance and satisfying bottom-out sensation make it a great choice for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, particularly if you appreciate a slightly softer landing. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier, more tactile experience with a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches will suit you well. Their stiffer actuation and textured feel offer a distinctive typing experience that some users find comforting, especially for typing-intensive tasks. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize comfort and smoothness versus weight and texture in your switch's performance.
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