Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right keyboard switch for your typing and gaming experience, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer distinct characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle linear feel, providing a lightweight typing experience with a satisfying depth at the bottom-out stage. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble ensure consistent performance, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a seamless and fluid keypress. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring caters to tactile enthusiasts who appreciate pronounced feedback, featuring a medium-high level of tactility and a unique two-staged spring that delivers a deep, resonating thock while typing. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation, making their typing experience feel more engaging. While both switches have their own strengths—with the Matcha Latte V2 excelling in smoothness and the Aflion Shadow emphasizing tactile feedback—each caters to specific user preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches present distinct characteristics that lead to contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Matcha Latte V2 features a top housing made of polyketone (POK), which is noted for its smoothness and exceptional durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04 and wear resistance significantly higher than POM, the POK material ensures a smooth typing experience while providing strength and resilience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate for its top housing, generating a sharper and crisper sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. While both materials aim to create an enhanced typing experience, the POK housing leans towards producing a smoother feel versus the more resonant sound profile of the polycarbonate utilized in the Shadow (Ink).
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, a clearer contrast emerges, further highlighting how one material’s qualities can influence performance. The Matcha Latte V2 incorporates nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively because of its softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate bottom housing that complements its top housing by producing a sharper, high-pitched auditory experience. As a stiffer material, polycarbonate lends itself to creating clearer sounds. When combined with their respective top housings, these differences enhance the overall soundscape, with the Matcha Latte V2 providing a rounded sound and the Shadow (Ink) offering a brighter tone.
Though the Matcha Latte V2 and the Shadow (Ink) employ different materials for their top and bottom housings, it is interesting to note that both designs can still yield satisfying switch performances. The overall typing experience for both can be tailored through the combination of their respective housings; while one may have a smoother feel, the other may emphasize auditory clarity. If the switches are fully optimized with their unique housing materials, one can achieve a cohesive sound and feel when typing. Thus, even with contrasting materials, the thoughtful engineering behind each switch allows them to deliver distinct yet fulfilling experiences for users who prioritize both sound and tactility in their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Matcha Latte V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that could appeal to those who enjoy tactile feedback. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown, the Shadow (Ink) features a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a firmer end point when the key is fully pressed down. Thus, the Matcha Latte V2 is the lighter option overall, while the Shadow (Ink) is heavier, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter of the two, catering more towards users who appreciate a quicker response time, which is often favored among gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch, with its longer 4 mm travel, offers a more robust and deliberate typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keystroke. The difference in travel distances highlights a preference spectrum: the Matcha Latte V2 may feel more responsive and snappier, while the Shadow (Ink) may feel more satisfying for users who enjoy a tactile feedback with their typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 linear switch is characterized by a smooth and subtle acoustic profile, which tends to be quieter and less intrusive compared to tactile switches. This allows for a more relaxed and focused typing experience, making it suitable for shared or quiet environments. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces deep, resonating thocks upon each keystroke, creating a more pronounced auditory feedback. The high-pitched, clacky sound associated with the Shadow switches adds a bright, crisp quality, which can be more engaging and satisfying for those who enjoy an audible confirmation of their typing.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a smooth linear experience with a satisfying balance of lightness and solid bottom-out sensation. The minimal stem wobble and generous factory lubrication contribute to an overall premium linear performance that translates to a comfortable and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch features a medium-high level of tactility, with a prominent and distinct tactile bump that delivers high feedback intensity with each keystroke. Its sharp and snappy feel, combined with the bouncy sensation from the dual-staged spring, makes it extremely responsive and lively, which can be ideal for those who appreciate tactile cues while typing.
In conclusion, while the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch provides a quiet and fluid typing experience with its smooth operation, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a more engaging experience through its pronounced sound and tactile feedback. Each switch caters to different preferences: if you're after a serene, linear feel with a subtle sound, the Matcha Latte V2 is your go-to option, while those who enjoy a more dynamic, tactile typing experience with rich auditory feedback may gravitate toward the Shadow. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch largely depends on your typing style and preferences. If you favor a smooth, linear typing experience that combines a light feel with a solid bottom-out without any auditory distractions, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice. Its factory lubrication enhances stability and minimizes stem wobble, making it ideal for those who appreciate a quieter environment and value a consistent, fluid keystroke. On the other hand, if you crave the feedback of a tactile switch with pronounced tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will suit you well. This switch offers a snappy response and a medium-high level of tactility, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that can make typing feel more engaging and lively. If you enjoy the sensation of a strong tactile bump with each press and appreciate the added resonance in sound, this switch is tailored for your needs. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prefer the serene smoothness of a linear switch versus the engaging feedback of a tactile one.
Mentioned in this article
