Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use, and two popular options are the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Matcha Latte V2, celebrated for its smooth linear typing experience, strikes a commendable balance between lightness and a firm bottom-out feel, making it ideal for typists and gamers who seek responsiveness without harsh feedback. Its factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble further enhance typing comfort and stability, all at an accessible price. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to a different audience entirely; it combines a tactile bump with noise reduction, making it the perfect choice for those in noise-sensitive environments like offices or shared spaces. Its padded bottom-out feel and muted sound profile deliver a pleasant typing experience without disturbing others nearby. While both switches offer unique advantages—smoothing linear action versus tactile quietness—each serves distinct typing preferences. 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
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), notable differences emerge. The Matcha Latte V2 employs a POK plastic for its top housing, which is recognized for its low coefficient of friction, durability, and high shock resistance. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it offers a smoother typing experience than the Silent T1's polycarbonate top housing, which, while providing a clearer and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, does not contribute the same level of smoothness. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an aesthetic choice that pairs well with illuminated setups. In contrast, the POK material's strength and wear resistance make it a robust option for prolonged usage.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, providing a familiar foundation in mechanical switch design. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic is evident in both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Silent T1, offering a rounder auditory experience from the lower housing. Thus, any comparisons regarding their bottom acoustics will largely yield similar results, reinforcing the effectiveness of nylon in achieving a pleasing typing sound, irrespective of the differences in the top housing materials.
Overall, the interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials in these switches highlights the distinct auditory and tactile experiences they offer. While the POK material in the Matcha Latte V2 provides superior smoothness and durability, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent T1 enhances sound clarity and aesthetics. This blend of characteristics in each switch illustrates how variations in housing materials impact overall performance; yet, their shared nylon bottoms ensure a cohesive sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between them might hinge on preferences regarding sound profile and lighting effects, with both options offering their own unique advantages.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, we find some discrepancies. The Matcha Latte V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams, which offers a relatively lighter touch for typing, making it a suitable choice for prolonged usage, whether at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1’s bottom out force is recorded at 67 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down, although its actuation force is unknown. This suggests that when the T1 is pressed, users might experience a more robust feedback and potentially fatiguing effort during extended periods of typing. While both switches provide distinct characteristics—lighter actuation for the Matcha Latte V2 versus a heavier bottom out pressure for the Silent T1—those seeking a lighter, more effortless keystroke experience may gravitate towards the Matcha Latte V2. Conversely, users who prefer a firmer feel may find the Silent T1 more to their liking, particularly with its considerable bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we see a clear distinction between the two. The Matcha Latte V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you choose the Matcha Latte V2, you will experience a quicker, more responsive keystroke due to its shorter travel, making it an ideal option for gamers who prefer swift interactions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a more profound typing experience with its longer travel distance, which may feel more satisfying for those who enjoy a tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a hearty depth in your typing experience. In summary, the Matcha Latte V2 is the shorter option, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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
When comparing the sound characteristics of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), the Matcha Latte V2 generally produces a sound that emphasizes a smooth and linear experience, making it quieter in nature compared to more traditional clacky switches. Although specific audio descriptors for the Matcha Latte V2 are not provided, it can be expected to be less intrusive than more acoustic linear switches while delivering a satisfying audible response as keys bottom out. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is explicitly designed to minimize noise, resulting in a muted sound profile that excels in noise-sensitive environments. This switch's muted audio quality greatly contributes to a quieter typing experience, making it a favorable choice for shared spaces or late-night typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a notably smooth and linear typing experience, characterized by a light actuation force coupled with a solid bottom-out feel, which aids in a seamless keypress. The generous factory lubrication further enhances the overall fluidity of each keystroke, reducing friction and promoting a luxurious tactile sensation. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a more complex tactile feedback profile. It features a medium tactile bump that is more subtle and less jarring compared to hypertactile options, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. This switch is described as a "stepped" and "accented" tactile switch, indicating that while it provides a discernible tactile response, it is refined and polished, contributing to a rich typing experience that lacks scratchiness.
Overall, both switches cater to distinct preferences, emphasizing either a smooth linearity with the Matcha Latte V2 or a silenced tactile sensation with the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Matcha Latte V2 is an ideal option for those who value fluidity and smoothness in their key presses, while the Silent T1 offers a balanced tactile experience that's both subdued and pleasant for noise-conscious users. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel: a smoother linear typing experience with the Matcha Latte V2 or a comfortable tactile feedback experience with the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and environment. If you crave a smooth and seamless keystroke, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate a lighter feel combined with premium linear performance. These switches excel in providing a responsive, subtly satisfying typing experience with their generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive setting or are looking for a more tactile typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will serve you well. It offers a medium-heavy bottom-out force characterized by a muted sound, which minimizes distractions for both you and those around you. The stepped tactile feedback of the Silent T1 allows for enhanced precision without being overwhelming, making it suitable for those who enjoy tangible feedback while typing quietly. In summary, choose Matcha Latte V2 for a streamlined and lightweight linear feel, and opt for the Silent T1 when you prioritize tactility and noise reduction in your keystrokes.
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