Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red 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 the Outemu Dustproof Red both offer compelling options for those seeking a linear typing experience. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle feel, providing a delightful balance of lightness and a solid bottom-out experience. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, it promises premium performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red is designed with dust-resistant features, ideal for users who prioritize cleanliness and durability in their setups. While both switches cater to fans of linear mechanics, the Matcha Latte V2 focuses on delivering a refined tactile experience, while the Dustproof Red emphasizes practicality and longevity. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red, one notable difference lies in the material used for their top housing. The Matcha Latte V2 employs POK (polyketone), which is renowned for its low friction coefficient and exceptional durability, making it one of the smoothest materials available in the switch manufacturing landscape. In contrast, the Dustproof Red utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. This material offers a distinct sound profile due to its stiffness, producing a higher-pitched and crisper sound when a key is pressed. While both materials contribute to the overall efficacy of the switches, they yield different auditory experiences that can appeal to various user preferences.
Both switches share a similarity in their choice of bottom housing material, which is nylon. This classic material configuration helps facilitate a deeper and fuller sound profile across both models. Nylon's soft structure allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, delivering a rounder, richer acoustic experience. Consequently, despite the differences in their top housing, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing ensures that both switches produce similar aural characteristics when bottomed out. Users can expect a satisfying resonance due to the properties of nylon, fostering familiarity between the two models in terms of sound absorption.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch creates a unique interplay of sound and tactile feedback. The POK top housing of the Matcha Latte V2 offers a smooth and clacky sensation, whereas the polycarbonate top of the Dustproof Red yields a sharper acoustic quality. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that the overall sound profile remains deep and rich, regardless of the variability in their top materials. Therefore, while users may experience distinguishable auditory feedback based on the top housing material, the foundational qualities endowed by the nylon bottom housing create a cohesive experience across both switch types.
Weight
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch both feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. However, the main difference lies in their bottom out forces. The Dustproof Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a firmer feel when the key is pressed all the way down, whereas the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown. As a result, while both switches provide a similar actuation feel, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Red due to its higher bottom out force, offering a heavier push feel compared to the Matcha Latte V2's unspecified drop to the bottom.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, the Matcha Latte V2 measures at 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Red features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter option, offering a quicker response time that can be advantageous for gaming enthusiasts who favor speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional feel that some users may find preferable for a deeper key press experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more immediate tactile response, the Matcha Latte V2 would be the better choice, whereas if you appreciate a more gradual and hearty depth in your key presses, the Dustproof Red may suit you better.
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 Outemu Dustproof Red comes in at $3.10.
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 character of the Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is typically characterized by its quiet operation, making it a suitable choice for environments where noise may be a concern. While specifics about the sound of the Outemu Dustproof Red are unknown, it is reasonable to anticipate a more muted profile, especially given that it is also categorized as a linear switch. However, it's important to note that the final sound can also be heavily influenced by the keyboard build, the keycap material, and the overall assembly.
When it comes to the feel, the Matcha Latte V2 linear switch provides a smooth and light typing experience, blending a delicate touch with a gratifying bottom-out sensation, thanks to its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. The feel of the Dustproof Red is not as well-defined in available information, but as a linear switch, it likely shares a linear, smooth experience without the tactile bump found in other switch types. If the Outemu Dustproof Red is similarly designed, users might expect a responsive feel, albeit potentially lacking the refined touch offered by the Matcha Latte V2.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches cater to users seeking a smooth typing experience, with the Matcha Latte V2 standing out due to its thoughtful design and factory lubrication. If you're looking for a solid entry into the world of linear switches, the Matcha Latte V2 may offer a more refined overall experience, while the Dustproof Red could also serve well for those desiring a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing the fundamental characteristics of linearity.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it ultimately depends on your desired typing experience and application. If you're looking for a smooth and responsive feel with a light actuation force, the Matcha Latte V2 is a fantastic choice. Its premium linear performance, complemented by generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, makes it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, where quick reactions are needed without excessive fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional typing experience with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Red is a solid option. This switch might be better for users who appreciate a bit more resistance when typing, as it can offer a satisfying tactile feedback that helps in reducing accidental key presses, especially in a work environment. By considering your personal preferences for force, sound, and overall feel, you can make an informed choice that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.