Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to customizing your mechanical keyboard experience, the choice of switches can greatly influence typing feel and overall satisfaction. The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the SP-Star RedBlue are both linear switches that cater to distinct preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth, subtle typing experience that strikes a harmonious balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, making it an excellent choice for users seeking premium performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue offers a medium-light typing experience characterized by a relatively low-pitched sound profile, appealing to those who desire a more muted auditory feedback while typing. Both switches deliver unique benefits: the Matcha Latte V2 focuses on a buttery smooth feel with minimal stem wobble, while the RedBlue emphasizes a polished and neutral sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the SP-Star RedBlue switches present a fascinating comparison, as they both employ distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, influencing their overall sound profile and durability. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK top housing, which offers a low coefficient of friction that contributes to a smooth and clacky typing experience. In contrast, the RedBlue opts for a polycarbonate top housing, known for crafting a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate's stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, making it more suitable for users who value an articulated sound with RGB lighting effectively penetrating the material’s translucence. Therefore, while both switches deliver satisfactory performance, the Matcha Latte V2 emphasizes a deeper, fuller sound through its material properties, situating it as an ideal choice for users seeking a more rounded auditory experience.
Contrarily, when examining the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches accentuate a significant shift in the resulting sound profile. The Matcha Latte V2 features nylon in its bottom housing, inherently contributing a softer texture that absorbs sound effectively, thereby crafting a warmer and deeper acoustic signature. This contrasts with the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top counterpart, promotes a crisper sound profile that is likely to project a sharper experience to users. As a result, individuals opting for the Matcha Latte V2 can expect a more muted and robust sound on key presses, whereas users of the SP-Star RedBlue are invited to enjoy a brighter and more resonant feedback from their keystrokes.
In summary, when both top and bottom housings vary between these two models, they offer distinct auditory experiences that can appeal to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2’s selection of POK and nylon materials creates an intriguing balance of durability and a smoother, more cushioned typing experience, while the SP-Star RedBlue’s dual polycarbonate composition lends itself to a clear and lively engagement. Users can still achieve a satisfactory typing experience with either switch, but the interplay of their materials can lead to markedly different acoustic feedback and overall tactile sensations. For enthusiasts looking to refine their preferences in sound profile and durability, scrutinizing these differences in housing materials is essential in determining the optimal switch for their typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Matcha Latte V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting a moderate resistance suitable for extended typing sessions, making it a good choice for users who prefer lighter switches. In contrast, while the actuation force of the RedBlue switch remains unspecified, it does possess a bottom out force of 57 grams, indicating a firmer feel when fully pressed down. This heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who desire a more substantial typing experience. As such, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the SP-Star RedBlue would likely feel heavier due to its relatively higher bottom out force. Since the actuation force of the RedBlue is unknown, one cannot draw direct parallels in actuation, but it's evident that if both provided similar actuation forces, the typing experience would align with the defined preferences for lighter or heavier switches based on their respective weights.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte Latte V2 linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, a clear distinction arises. The Matcha Latte V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the RedBlue features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you prioritize quicker response times, the Matcha Latte V2 may be the preferable option due to its shorter travel, making it more aligned with gaming preferences for rapid inputs. On the other hand, the RedBlue's greater travel distance may be more appealing for users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke, providing a sense of depth that some find desirable in typing or gaming. Thus, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a snappier experience, while the RedBlue caters to those who prefer a traditional, deeper feel when pressing their keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is characterized by its smooth, subtle auditory profile, which leans towards a more refined experience overall. While the specific descriptors are not provided, it is reasonable to infer that the sound is pleasant and unobtrusive, allowing for a distraction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a distinctly low-pitched sound profile that creates a bass-heavy, mellow tone. This can result in a thocky auditory experience, resulting in a deep, rich sound reminiscent of a soft thud with each keystroke, making it an enjoyable option for users who appreciate a more resonant keypress.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 switches are known for delivering a smooth, linear typing experience with a satisfying balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. This blend ensures a more premium experience without excess resistance. In contrast, the RedBlue linear switches provide a mild typing experience characterized by their gentle, approachable nature. The polished feel of the RedBlue also adds to the overall typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel, which is complemented by its factory lubrication. Both switches provide a smooth, enjoyable typing experience, though the Matcha Latte V2 may offer a bit more feedback in terms of bottoming out compared to the more gentle touch of the RedBlue.
In summary, if you value a more bass-heavy auditory experience with a rich thock sound, the SP-Star RedBlue switches will serve you well. Conversely, if you prefer a smooth and subtle sound alongside a balance of lightness and solid feedback, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is the go-to choice. While both switches cater to different auditory preferences, they share key qualities like smoothness and a refined feel, ensuring that regardless of which you choose, you're bound to have a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches, your decision should primarily hinge on your typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you favor a smoother and subtler typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice. It provides a premium linear feel with generous lubrication and minimal stem wobble, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without tiring your fingers. This switch excels in environments that appreciate quieter keystrokes and a more refined feel, thanks to its smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light actuation force and enjoy a richer sound profile, the RedBlue switches might be more appealing. With their low-pitched, thocky sound and mild tactile feedback, these switches provide a satisfying auditory experience while maintaining a polished feel. They cater well to both beginners and experienced users across various settings, from home to the office. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs, typing style, and sound preferences, allowing you to create an optimal typing setup that enhances your experience.
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