Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, understanding the nuances of each option can significantly enhance your typing experience. The Huano Matcha Latte V2, celebrated for its smooth and subtle linear typing, strikes a perfect balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a gentle yet satisfying keypress. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, this switch delivers premium linear performance at a budget-friendly price. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood offers a strikingly different experience; it produces a deep, thocky sound that resonates beautifully right out of the box, thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. While the Matcha Latte V2 focuses on a refined tactile experience, the Rosewood emphasizes auditory feedback that can elevate your typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences, giving users unique sensations under their fingers. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Akko Rosewood switches both incorporate nylon in their bottom housings, which offers a similar acoustic experience characterized by a deeper, fuller sound profile. As nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory signature when typing. This shared material ensures that both switch models deliver an enjoyable typing experience, with the qualities of the bottom housing playing a key role in the bottom-out feel and sound. Type enthusiasts can expect both switches to evoke similar sensations, particularly during the actuation and release phases.
In contrast, the top housings of the Matcha Latte V2 and Akko Rosewood differ significantly, with the V2 utilizing POK material while the Rosewood employs nylon. The POK material is noted for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability, being significantly stronger and more shock-resistant than nylon. This contributes not only to a smoother typing experience but also adds a clacky sound when typing, given its unique properties. The Akko Rosewood’s nylon top housing, while not as smooth as POK, enhances the acoustic properties of the switch, leading to different sound profiles during key release that may add to a richer auditory experience overall.
The combination of these materials results in distinct yet complementary characteristics within each switch. The Matcha Latte V2 relies on POK’s physical properties for a fast and smooth keypress, while the Rosewood uses nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a softer auditory feedback. The differences in upper housing materials highlight the roles each play within the overall typing experience; the POK enhances key actuation while providing a unique sound, while the nylon softens the sound profile during release. Ultimately, users may find that regardless of the variation in housing materials, both switches offer tactile diversity and distinct auditory characteristics, allowing for a customizable typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, we find notable differences. The Matcha Latte V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Rosewood switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming may find the Rosewood more comfortable. However, the Matcha Latte V2 lacks a specified bottom out force, potentially leaving users uncertain about how it feels when pressed all the way down. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a firmer feel that caters to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch with easier actuation may prefer the Rosewood, while those who appreciate a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Matcha Latte V2, despite its unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Matcha Latte V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Rosewood has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that those who prefer a more responsive typing experience may favor the shorter travel distance of the Matcha Latte V2, as it allows for quicker actuation. Conversely, the Rosewood's 4 mm travel distance may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and deeper keystrokes, thus offering a more traditional typing experience. In essence, if you're seeking shorter travel for speed, the Matcha Latte V2 is the better choice, whereas the Rosewood caters to those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is known for its smooth and subtle sound profile, allowing for a quieter typing experience that can be more discreet in shared environments. Meanwhile, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is characterized by a deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that provides a more pronounced acoustic feedback. It’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by the type of keyboard they are paired with and the keycaps used, but generally, the Matcha Latte V2 leans towards a quieter, more understated sound, while the Rosewood offers a more resonant and authoritative auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a balanced typing experience that combines lightness with a solid bottom-out sensation. This smoothness is bolstered by its generous factory lubrication, which minimizes stem wobble and enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Rosewood switch is likely to give a more tactile impression due to the deeper sound it produces and its inherent design. While specifics about its tactile feel aren’t provided, the thocky auditory characteristic often accompanies a more substantial sense of actuation, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during typing.
In summary, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Akko Rosewood linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Matcha Latte V2 is suited for those looking for a smoother, quieter typing experience with minimal distraction, while the Rosewood will appeal to users who prefer a deeper sound profile with possible enhanced tactile feedback. Choosing between the two will largely depend on personal preferences regarding auditory and tactile sensations, and you can expect to achieve fulfilling experiences with either switch depending on your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Akko Rosewood linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience with a gentle bottom-out sensation, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble enhance its effortless linear performance, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming without feeling fatigued. On the other hand, if you seek a more robust tactile experience complemented by a pleasingly deep sound profile, the Akko Rosewood may be the better choice for you. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, it provides a solid feel and a satisfying "thock" that can be particularly gratifying for those who appreciate auditory feedback during their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a more delicate and smooth touch or a deeply resonant typing experience.
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