Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Akko Penguin

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile options can significantly impact your typing experience. The Huano Matcha Latte V2 is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth and subtle feel, offering a delightful balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out experience. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, it's an accessible option that promises premium performance without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Akko Penguin represents a shift into silent tactile switches, ideal for those who prioritize a quieter environment, such as office settings. The Penguin switch features a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke, while its medium weight ensures ease of use and responsiveness, making it suitable for long typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, with the Matcha Latte V2 appealing to those who enjoy a fluid linear action, while the Penguin offers a tactile experience that enhances typing accuracy with its discreet feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

Akko Penguin Tactile

$3.99 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Akko Penguin switches utilize different materials for their top housing, leading to distinct tactile and acoustic characteristics. The Matcha Latte V2 features a POK top housing, which is known for its excellent wear and shock resistance, as well as a low coefficient of friction that contributes to a smoother keypress experience. In contrast, the Akko Penguin employs a nylon top housing that, while well-regarded as a classic material, lacks the same level of durability and smoothness as POK. The subtle differences in materials affect the acoustics and feel of each switch. The POK housing facilitates a more clacky sound profile, while nylon absorbs sound more effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound that appeals to those looking for a softer typing experience.

Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing—nylon. This similarity means that both the Matcha Latte V2 and Akko Penguin switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s inherently softer plastic properties. Typing on either switch results in a sound that is absorbed rather than projected, further contributing to the muted auditory feedback that typists often prefer. Despite the differences in top housing material leading to varying tactile responses, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users can expect a consistent bottom-out feel and sound in both switches. This allows for a notable level of uniformity across both models, particularly in the way the bottom housing affects the overall typing experience.

In summary, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Akko Penguin switches differ in their top housing materials—POK versus nylon—their shared nylon bottom housing results in similar acoustic experiences. The Matcha Latte V2 offers an edge in durability and a smoother keypress due to its POK top, appealing to those seeking responsive, clacky switches. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin’s nylon top housing provides a softer response and a deeper sound profile, catering to a distinct user preference. Ultimately, the combination of different top housings and a common bottom housing enriches the diversity of tactile sensations and auditory feedback offered by these two switch designs.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the actuation forces reveal some notable differences. The Matcha Latte V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Penguin switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use might find the Penguin switch more comfortable for long work sessions or gaming marathons. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Penguin switch is established at 60 grams, providing a more pronounced feedback when the key is fully pressed down, which some users might appreciate. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile feedback upon full depression. Overall, if a heavier switch is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 is the better choice, while the Penguin offers a lighter overall feel.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Matcha Latte V2 offers a more traditional and deeper typing experience, which some users may prefer for its tactile feedback and hearty depth. In contrast, the Penguin's shorter travel distance allows for quicker response times, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking speed and efficiency. Thus, if you value a more pronounced actuation, the Matcha Latte V2 is the better option, whereas the Akko Penguin is ideal for those who prioritize responsiveness in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound quality, the Matcha Latte V2 switches provide a smooth and subtle auditory experience. Their design allows for a gentle sound profile without the common clackiness associated with other mechanical switches, making them a solid choice for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switches are characterized by their muted sound, which significantly minimizes the noise typically produced by mechanical keyboards. This makes the Penguin particularly suited for office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is essential. Overall, the sound profiles of both switches cater to individuals seeking to maintain a quieter workspace, though the Pengiun is more explicitly designed for that purpose.

In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 switches deliver a smooth, delicate linear typing experience that emphasizes a well-balanced combination of lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. Their generous factory lubrication results in minimal stem wobble, enhancing the typing experience further by providing a consistent stroke without additional friction. Meanwhile, the Akko Penguin switches offer a polished typing experience, enhanced by their gentle tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback during each keystroke. Their mild and feathery attributes make them approachable for extended typing without causing fatigue. While Matcha Latte V2 focuses on linear smoothness, the Penguin adds a tactile experience while still maintaining a light touch, appealing to users who enjoy feedback without the click.

In summary, while the Matcha Latte V2 and Akko Penguin switches differ in their tactile design and intended user experience, both offer qualities that can result in satisfying typing experiences. The Matcha Latte V2 stands out with its smooth, linear action, while the Penguin provides muted sound and a tactile feel, making them both excellent choices for specific preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a linear typing experience or require tactile feedback without excessive noise.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with an emphasis on minimal resistance and a soft feel—ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, particularly in quieter environments—the Matcha Latte V2 would be your go-to option. Its subtle, linear feedback and light actuation make it especially suitable for those who value a comfortable and fluid keypress without the distraction of a pronounced bump or noise. On the other hand, if you often find yourself in shared spaces or office settings where noise is a concern, the Akko Penguin tactile switch stands out as the better choice. With its muted sound profile and pleasing tactile bump, it strikes a favorable balance for users who appreciate feedback without overwhelming auditory feedback. The medium actuation force also ensures that typing remains responsive while preventing finger fatigue over extended use. Thus, whether you gravitate toward the smooth linearity of the Matcha Latte V2 or the tactile satisfaction of the Penguin, your decision should align with both your typing style and the environments in which you typically work or play.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more