Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Sea Glass present two appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and balanced typing feel, offering a satisfying combination of lightness and a solid bottom-out sensation, all enhanced by generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. Its accessible price point makes it an attractive choice for those looking for premium performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches stand out not only for their aesthetic appeal with five captivating pastel colors but also for their unique typing experience characterized by a distinct dryness and airiness. Weighing in at 62g, these switches provide an unexpectedly weightless feel, while their frictionless nature and uniquely hollow sound signature can elevate the typing experience for users. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them worthy contenders in the linear switch category. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Durock Sea Glass switches showcase a blend of familiarity and uniqueness that contributes to their distinct performance profiles. The Matcha Latte V2 employs POK material, known for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it delivers smooth keystrokes that are complemented by its impressive strength and wear resistance, which is 14 times greater than POM. In contrast, the Sea Glass's top housing utilizes a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, which emphasizes a brighter sound profile compared to the clacky tone of the POK. Despite these differences in material composition and sound characteristics, both switches are designed to ensure a pleasant typing experience, indicating that the tactile feedback and acoustic qualities can be similarly enjoyable, albeit through different material mechanisms.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Matcha Latte V2 employs classic nylon, renowned for its ability to absorb sound, thereby contributing to a deeper and fuller acoustic experience when typing. This acoustic absorption can deliver a duller and rounder sound profile. Conversely, the Sea Glass uses the same polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in the bottom housing. Though both switches utilize nylon, the blend in the Sea Glass contributes to a brighter yet still pleasant sound profile. This suggests that while the foundational nylon material provides some consistency in feel and sound absorption, the combination with UHMWPE in the Sea Glass may create a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the deeper tones offered by the Matcha Latte V2.
Ultimately, the differences and similarities between the two switches highlight how the interplay of top and bottom housing materials can influence overall performance. The contrasting properties of the POK and polymer nylon/UHMWPE in the top housings lead to different acoustics during key releases—smooth and clacky versus bright and pleasant—while the shared use of nylon in the bottom housings ensures that both switches maintain a consistent foundation for sound absorption. Therefore, users looking for similar typing experiences may find satisfaction in either option, depending on their preference for the qualities emphasized by each switch's unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch exhibit interesting similarities and differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, which means they will provide a similarly light touch when it comes to triggering a keystroke. This lightweight actuation makes them suitable for those who prefer typing for extended periods, ideal for long gaming sessions or work environments. However, the key difference lies in their bottom out forces: the Sea Glass switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unavailable. Consequently, this indicates that the Sea Glass provides a firmer feel upon bottoming out, making it a better option for users who favor a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while both switches share the same actuation force, the Durock Sea Glass is the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force, appealing to those who seek a more pronounced tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is observed that the Matcha Latte V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference means that the Matcha Latte V2 will offer a quicker response time, appealing to gamers and those who prefer a more responsive key press. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced typing experience for individuals who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: gamers may lean towards the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Matcha Latte V2, while typists seeking depth might favor the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Sea Glass.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Matcha Latte V2 is characterized by its smooth and unobtrusive acoustic profile, providing a typing experience that is pleasant yet understated. The well-balanced design contributes to a satisfyingly solid bottom-out sound that does not become overwhelming, making it suitable for both office and home environments. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches offer a uniquely hollow sound signature that adds an element of airiness to the typing experience. While the Sea Glass's distinct dryness and wispiness create a fascinating auditory characteristic, it is important to remember that sound can greatly vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 provides a smooth and balanced typing experience, featuring a solid bottom-out sensation without being overly heavy. It integrates generous factory lubrication, which minimizes stem wobble and enhances the overall fluidity of keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches elevate the typing experience with their frictionless nature, offering a much lighter and feathery feel. With a mild and easy-to-press actuation, they afford users an extraordinarily comfortable experience, making them especially suited for extended typing or gaming sessions. The combination of low actuation force and airy sensations delivers a typing experience that feels weightless yet precise.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Durock Sea Glass linear switches provide exceptional typing experiences, albeit with distinct differences in sound and feel. The Matcha Latte V2 stands out for its smoothness and solid bottom-out feedback, while the Sea Glass impresses with its airy auditory profile and frictionless typing sensations. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference, as both can deliver satisfying results in their unique ways. Whether it's the balanced performance of the Matcha Latte V2 or the lightweight feel of the Sea Glass, users can expect quality typing experiences from either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Sea Glass linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a typing experience that feels light yet solid, with a smooth and subtle response, the Matcha Latte V2 would likely be your best bet. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble create a premium feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy long typing sessions without excessive fatigue. Alternatively, if you are drawn to a unique blend of tactile experiences and aesthetics, the Durock Sea Glass switches present an intriguing option. They offer a frictionless and feathery typing experience that feels effortlessly smooth, yet their distinctive hollow sound signature adds a layer of character that distinguishes them from typical linear switches. Moreover, their moderate 62g bottom-out force strikes a balance suitable for users who prefer a more defined feel without sacrificing comfort during extended use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities—whether that be a refined and lightweight experience with the Matcha Latte V2 or the airy and captivating nature of the Sea Glass.
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