Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the KTT Semi Mute 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 KTT Semi Mute offer distinct yet appealing features for different typing preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth, linear typing experience, striking an ideal balance between a light touch and a satisfying bottom-out feel, all while ensuring minimal stem wobble thanks to generous factory lubrication. This makes it a fantastic option for those seeking premium performance without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches, true to their name, provide an entirely silent operation enhanced by advanced dampening technology, making them perfect for users who prioritize a quiet workspace, especially during late-night typing sessions. While both switches fall under the linear category, their nuanced differences cater to varying preferences—whether you value tactile feedback or a completely noise-free experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the KTT Semi Mute present an interesting contrast, particularly in terms of sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Matcha Latte V2 employs a POK top housing, which is celebrated for its smoothness and durability, boasting a very low coefficient of friction at 0.04. This contributes to a clacky and responsive feedback during typing, making it one of the standout choices for switch enthusiasts who prioritize a tactile and engaging feel. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This results in more pronounced acoustic characteristics, which can enhance the experience for users who appreciate a clear auditory feedback.
In terms of bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become even more pronounced. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound better than polycarbonate, yielding a deeper and fuller sound. This softer material contributes to a muted auditory experience that contrasts with the crisper sounds produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing in the KTT Semi Mute. Consequently, the Nylon bottom of the Matcha Latte offers a rounder sound profile, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom enhances clarity and resonance, leading to a distinctively different typing experience between the two switches.
Despite these differences, both switches can offer users a satisfying typing experience. While the Matcha Latte V2 may provide a smoother and clackier response from its superior top housing material, the KTT Semi Mute's sharper sound will appeal to those who favor a more defined acoustic feedback. The unique qualities of each switch's bottom and top housings will create a blend of attributes that will ultimately cater to different user preferences. Therefore, while users may gravitate toward one switch over the other based on the housing material, both models can achieve a pleasurable experience in terms of sound and feel by adapting to individual taste in typing sensations.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we see some distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Matcha Latte V2 requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the KTT Semi Mute, which has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This difference may appeal to users who prefer a firmer feel while typing, favoring the heavier Matcha Latte for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute not only has a lower actuation force but also features a noticeable bottom out force of 58 grams — a measurement that is currently unavailable for the Matcha Latte V2. Users looking for a switch with a defined tactile feedback will likely appreciate this bottom out force in the Semi Mute. Overall, those who prefer lighter switches may gravitate toward the KTT Semi Mute, while those seeking a heftier keypress may find the Matcha Latte V2 more appealing.
Travel distance
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter option between the two, offering a more responsive feel that some gamers may prefer for quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Semi Mute's longer travel distance of 4 mm can provide a more pronounced tactile experience, which may be favored by typists who enjoy a more substantial key press. If you're seeking faster response times, the Matcha Latte V2 would be the preferred choice, while those who appreciate a deeper key press may find the Semi Mute more to their liking. Overall, the difference in travel distance caters to varying preferences between responsiveness and depth in switch feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 switches provide a subtle auditory experience, offering a smooth and quiet sound profile that complements their linear nature. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switches live up to their name with completely silent operation, effectively minimizing any noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. These muted characteristics make them a great choice for late-night typing sessions or environments where noise reduction is essential. Overall, while both switches emphasize low sound levels, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a slightly more audible yet refined tone compared to the absolute silence of the Semi Mute.
When discussing feel, the Matcha Latte V2 switches are celebrated for delivering a smooth and balanced typing experience, characterized by a light actuation force that culminates in a solid bottom-out feel. This combination provides users with satisfying feedback while maintaining a fluid keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches offer a buttery smoothness, creating an effortless and uniform typing sensation that is gentle and mild. Their advanced dampening technology ensures that users can enjoy a comfortable typing experience without overwhelming tactile feedback, making them approachable for all types of users. While both switches promise a smooth feel, each caters to slightly different preferences in terms of feedback intensity and typing dynamics.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and KTT Semi Mute linear switches cater to those prioritizing a smooth and low-noise typing experience but accomplish this in their unique ways. The Matcha Latte V2 leans towards a refined and balanced auditory presence with satisfying tactile feedback, while the KTT Semi Mute offers a completely silent experience with a focus on comfort. Whether you prefer a subtle sound with a solid feel or absolute quiet with buttery smoothness, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you seek a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a well-balanced feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option. Its factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble ensure a premium performance that can make typing feel effortless, allowing you to enjoy the tactile sensation without distraction. Conversely, if your primary concern is maintaining a quiet workspace, especially for late-night productivity or shared environments, the KTT Semi Mute is tailored for you. Its silent operation and advanced dampening technology ensure a noise-free experience, which is perfect if you're looking to minimize sound without sacrificing comfort. In summary, choose the Matcha Latte V2 for a smooth, tactile experience and the Semi Mute for a tranquil typing environment. Your decision should reflect how much weight you place on sound and feel in your daily typing activities.
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