Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Outemu Black

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference, and two popular options in the linear switch category are the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Outemu Black. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for providing a smooth and subtle typing experience, combining a light feel with a solid bottom-out that enhances overall comfort during extended use. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble contribute to a premium linear performance, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a tactile yet gentle feel without breaking the bank. On the other hand, while the Outemu Black lacks specific defining traits, its reputation for durability and reliability in gaming contexts makes it a viable option for users looking for a straightforward and robust linear switch. Both switches cater to different user needs, with the Matcha Latte V2 appealing to those who prioritize smoothness and comfort, while the Outemu Black may draw in gamers favoring reliability. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

Outemu Black Linear

$3.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Outemu Black switches, the distinct differences in their top housing can greatly affect the switches' overall sound profiles and feel during use. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes POK material for its top housing, noted for its smoothness and excellent durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK gives the switch a slick and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black incorporates a polycarbonate top housing which is stiffer and designed to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in materials sets the stage for a unique auditory experience, with the Matcha Latte V2 yielding a more clacky tone due to the resonating qualities of POK, while the Outemu Black emphasizes clarity and brightness from the polycarbonate.

Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which aligns their acoustic properties. Nylon is recognized for absorbing sound and producing a fuller, richer sound profile. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in affecting the bottom-out sound and feedback when typing, providing a deeper and rounder experience across both models. Since they share this nylon bottom housing, users can expect a similar foundational experience in terms of sound depth and tactile feedback, despite the variation in their top materials. This shared characteristic allows both switches to maintain a level of compatibility when it comes to delivering enjoyable typing feedback, depending on the user's preference.

While the differences in top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles for both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Outemu Black, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing helps to bridge some of the gap in auditory and tactile experiences. Each switch has its unique character due to the variation in the top housing, yet they will elicit similar foundational responses when engaging with the switch, thanks to the properties of nylon. Ultimately, the Matcha Latte V2 may appeal to those seeking a smooth and clacky feel, whereas the Outemu Black is likely to attract users who prefer a brighter sound with enhanced clarity. Nonetheless, the fundamentals of sound absorption and tactile feedback offered by nylon keep both switches grounded in shared characteristics, providing a rich typing experience from their common base.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it a good choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. While the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unavailable, the Outemu Black has a bottom out force of 82 grams, indicating it provides a firmer feedback when fully depressed. This comparison highlights that the Matcha Latte V2 is better suited for users seeking a lighter switch, while the Outemu Black is more appropriate for those who favor a heavier switch experience.

Travel distance

The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Matcha Latte V2 measuring 3.6 mm and the Outemu Black at 4 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. In contrast, the Outemu Black, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, offers a more substantial depth that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, while both switches serve different preferences for key feel and responsiveness, those seeking a rapid response should lean towards the Matcha Latte V2, while those who enjoy a deeper press may favor the Outemu Black.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is generally characterized as smooth and quiet, offering a pleasant typing experience that doesn’t distract the user or those nearby. The factory lubrication on the Matcha Latte V2 contributes to this muted sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a specific sound description available, but it is known for being more on the quieter side relative to many tactile or clicky switches. Given that sound is influenced by the keyboard’s construction and materials, you may find that a well-built board can enhance the auditory qualities of either switch.

Moving on to the feel, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a smooth and consistent keystroke, balancing a light actuation force with a satisfying solid bottom-out feel that is both engaging and easy to type on for extended periods. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, these switches are designed to elevate the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch typically features a heavier actuation force, which can lead to a significantly firmer typing experience. This added resistance can offer a different, more deliberate feel, which some typists may prefer, though the specifics of the tactile response have not been detailed.

In conclusion, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch stands out with its balanced characteristics of sound and feel, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience that is appealing to many users. While the Outemu Black linear switch lacks detailed descriptions, its heavier actuation force may cater to those looking for a firmer keystroke. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound; both can deliver enjoyable experiences, but they cater to slightly different needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience that offers a smooth and subtle feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option due to its well-balanced performance, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble. This makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you enjoy a firmer bottom-out force and require a more pronounced feedback as you type, then the Outemu Black, with its heavier actuation force of 82 grams, may be the better choice. This will appeal to those who might feel more grounded and intentional with each keystroke, particularly in gaming scenarios where you need to ensure accurate input. Therefore, consider what aspects of a switch—such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound—are most important to you, as this will guide you towards selecting the switch that best aligns with your typing needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

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Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more