Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2) 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) present distinct experiences within the realm of linear switches. The Matcha Latte V2 is renowned for its smooth and subtle typing experience, striking an impressive balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, making it an excellent option for those who value premium performance at an accessible price point. It is characterized by its bouncy and creamy nature, offering a satisfying tactile feedback that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) stands out for its buttery smoothness and distinct sound profile that evokes the delightful snap of a dark chocolate bar, providing a luxurious typing experience. Categorized as creamy, silky, and buttery, these switches appeal to users seeking a more sumptuous feel during extended typing sessions. Both switches have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences and priorities, whether it be the Matcha Latte's balance of feel and performance or the Oil King's indulgent smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2), notable distinctions arise primarily between their top housings. The Matcha Latte V2 features a POK top housing made from polyketone, a material renowned for its exceptional strength and low friction coefficient of 0.04. This results in a smooth typing experience, with enhanced durability that is significantly higher than that of traditional plastics like POM or Nylon. The POK material not only contributes to a smooth feel but also enables a clacky sound profile, making it a desirable choice among enthusiasts seeking both performance and auditory satisfaction. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) utilizes a classic nylon top housing, known for its softness and sound dampening properties, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. While both materials serve their purpose well, their differing characteristics lead to divergent auditory experiences during use.
Examining the bottom housing of each switch reveals a different juxtaposition, as both manufacturers have opted for traditional and proprietary materials. The Matcha Latte V2 employs a nylon bottom housing, consistent with its top, which reinforces the softer sound profile that users experience. Similar to the top housing, this nylon construction contributes to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which is designed to produce a sharp, high-pitched sound that stands out from the more elevated auditory clarity associated with nylon. The INK blend's characteristics enable a more pronounced clack, contrasting with the Matcha Latte's acoustically softer nature. Therefore, while both switches incorporate nylon in some form, the differences between the proprietary blend and the classic material shape key differences in their auditory performance.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in each switch defines the overall typing experience. Although the Matcha Latte V2 and Oil King (V2) share some commonalities with their use of nylon, the differing top housing materials introduce varying levels of smoothness and sound profiles that impact overall feel and audio feedback. For users looking to find similarities, the consistent use of nylon across the bottom housings suggests that both switches will deliver deep and full sounds, albeit with differing characteristics inherent to their constructions. This shared material allows for overlapping acoustic results, but the distinct attributes of the POK and INK blend top housings create unique experiences that a dedicated typist may wish to explore for their nuances.
Weight
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch differ notably in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, which impact their usability for various typing preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Oil King (V2) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial feel that may appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push for a tactile typing experience. While the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown, the Oil King (V2) has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This means that when fully pressed, the Oil King provides a firmer resistance compared to the Matcha Latte, making it less forgiving for extended typing sessions. Overall, the Matcha Latte V2 is the lighter option, while the Oil King (V2) is the heavier choice, catering to different preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Matcha Latte V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Oil King (V2) features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference may impact users' typing and gaming experiences significantly. Those who favor the shorter travel distance of the Matcha Latte V2 may appreciate the quicker response times that come with less key travel, making it a strong choice for gamers looking for rapid actuation. On the contrary, the Oil King (V2), with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes, providing a more tactile experience that can be satisfying for typists. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or depth and a more traditional keystroke feel.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Matcha Latte V2 switches offer a soft typing experience that contributes to a tranquil atmosphere while you type. The sound profile is unobtrusive and pleasant, allowing for a quiet yet clear auditory feedback that doesn't exceed the bounds of politeness. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King (V2) features a distinctive sound that is likened to the satisfying crack of a dark chocolate bar. This auditory characteristic provides a richer and more engaging feedback experience, adding a layer of acoustic pleasure as you type, although the specific volume and resonance can still vary depending on your board and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 excels with its bouncy and creamy characteristics, providing a lively and spring-like feedback that keeps your fingers energized as you type. The generous factory lubrication plays a significant role, ensuring that each keystroke feels smooth and silken, almost as if your fingers are gliding effortlessly over the keys. The Oil King (V2) shares this creamy experience but takes it a step further by also being described as silky and buttery. This combination enhances the overall typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke that minimizes resistance and promotes a seamless interaction with the keyboard. Both switches encourage a pleasurable and comfortable feel under your fingers, but the Oil King (V2) elevates this sensation with additional smoothness.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Gateron Oil King (V2) offer compelling linear switch experiences tailored to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 excels in providing a balanced and quiet sound with a bouncy feel, perfect for those who favor subtlety and comfort in their typing experience. Conversely, the Oil King (V2) amplifies the sensory experience with its rich sound signature and exceptionally creamy feeling, offering an indulgent typing session. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference; whether you lean towards the tranquil performance of the Matcha Latte V2 or the engaging richness of the Oil King (V2), both will deliver smooth and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. The Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice if you value a light and bouncy feel, providing an enjoyable combination of responsiveness and comfort for prolonged typing sessions. Its smooth and creamy texture, enhanced by factory lubrication, ensures minimal resistance and a delightful typing experience. This switch is particularly suitable for those who enjoy a subtler, softer touch and are looking for an accessible yet high-performance option. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a more pronounced bottom-out sensation, the Oil King (V2) might be more to your liking. It offers a silky, buttery smoothness that delivers a satisfying tactile feedback, making it an ideal fit for users who appreciate a more robust and solid keystroke. In summary, go for the Matcha Latte V2 for a lighter, bouncier experience and choose the Oil King (V2) for a richer, fuller typing feel.
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