Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Cherry MX Orange are two compelling linear options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle typing experience, characterized by a delightful balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. This switch shines with its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, offering a premium linear performance that is accessible to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches bring back the beloved original MX Orange design with modern enhancements, promising a reliable and satisfying typing experience. While both switches are linear, the Matcha Latte V2 is often described as 'bouncy' and 'creamy', adding a unique texture to each keystroke, whereas the MX Orange focuses more on restoring a classic feel with current technology. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference, and their distinctive characteristics can greatly influence your typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Cherry MX Orange switches exhibit distinctive differences in their top housing materials. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes POK material, renowned for its exceptional durability and low coefficient of friction, which results in a smooth activation and crisp tactile feedback. With a wear resistance 14 times that of POM and a shock resistance that outperforms Nylon and POM, the POK top housing creates a distinctive, clacky sound signature that enthusiasts often seek. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a classic nylon top housing, which, while also recognized for its superior build quality, offers a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. The inherent softness of nylon enhances the auditory experience of keystrokes, producing a duller yet rounded sound, distinct from the sharper notes characteristic of the Matcha Latte V2.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Cherry MX Orange feature nylon. This shared material means that both switches will produce a similar sound profile and tactile feedback from their respective bottoms. The nylon's soft texture allows for better sound absorption, contributing to a deeper bottom-out sound and feel. Despite their differences in top housing, the nylon bottom housing utilized in both switches assures that users will experience a consistent resonance and sound dampening during prolonged typing sessions, creating an inviting typing experience favored by users who prioritize acoustic quality.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials of the Matcha Latte V2 and Cherry MX Orange yield varied tactile and acoustic results, while their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a baseline of acoustic experience. The POK material used in the Matcha Latte V2 offers unique strengths in terms of wear and shock resistance, optimizing it for smooth keypresses, while the nylon top of the MX Orange enriches the sound produced during key releases. Nevertheless, the commonality of the nylon bottom housing across both switches provides an interesting overlap, delivering a resemblance in the sound profile and tactile feedback when bottoming out, pleasing fans of auditory feedback in their typing experience.
Weight
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces. The Matcha Latte V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer effortless keystrokes, ideal for long typing sessions at work or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the MX Orange requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Both switches, however, have unknown bottom out forces, which means we cannot compare them in that aspect. Overall, for users who prioritize a lighter switch, the Matcha Latte V2 is the better choice, while those who enjoy a firmer push will likely gravitate towards the MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, we find a notable difference that can influence user experience. The Matcha Latte V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Matcha Latte V2, as its shorter distance can facilitate quicker key presses, making it particularly appealing for gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback and depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth, with the Matcha Latte V2 being the shorter option and the Cherry MX Orange being the longer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
The sound produced by the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is characterized by its muted and smooth output, making it a subtle choice that won't disrupt a quiet environment. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch, while also linear, carries a slightly more pronounced sound due to its construction and the reissue enhancements from the MX2A generation, though it remains relatively quiet. Both switches will provide a pleasant sound profile that is not overly distracting, but the specific experience can vary depending on your keyboard setup and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is notable for its bouncy and creamy sensations. The bounciness lends a spring-like feedback, allowing for a lively typing experience that feels responsive under the fingers. Meanwhile, the creamy aspect results in a buttery smoothness that contributes to a pleasurable keystroke, allowing for seamless typing. The Cherry MX Orange switches' feel is less defined in this context, which means while users can expect a decent linear performance, they may not experience the same level of bounciness or smoothness that the Matcha Latte V2 offers.
Overall, while both switches provide linear performance suitable for a variety of tasks, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 stands out with its distinct bouncy and creamy feel, making it an attractive option for those desiring an elevated typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange, benefiting from its revamped heritage, may cater to users looking for a balance of characteristics, though it may not quite match the specific tactile nuances of the Matcha Latte V2. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a switch with an enhanced tactile feel or a reliable classic design.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a smooth and subtle typing experience that feels both light and solid, then the Matcha Latte V2 is your go-to option. Its bouncy and creamy characteristics offer a delightful tactile sensation, making it a great choice for tasks that require prolonged typing sessions or for those who enjoy a premium feel without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that aligns more with ergonomic needs and has deeper roots in mechanical keyboard history, the MX Orange could resonate better with you. Known for its refreshed design and robust performance, it appeals to users seeking reliability and familiarity in their key presses. Thus, consider your typing style, the feel you prefer, and the type of work you do to make the best choice between these two excellent switches.
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