Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 both present appealing options for linear switch enthusiasts, each with distinct characteristics that cater to various typing preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle linear experience, striking a harmonious balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, all while boasting generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble that ensures premium performance at an accessible price. In contrast, the Sky V4 switches stand out for their innovative use of POK material in the top housing, which produces a deeper sound signature, enriching the tactile experience with a satisfying and low-pitched auditory feedback, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a thocky and bouncy feel during typing. While both switches offer smooth linear action, the Matcha Latte V2 leans towards a lighter and more straightforward feel, whereas the Sky V4 provides a richer acoustic experience that may appeal to users looking for depth in their typing sessions. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The POK top housing of both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 is made from the same material, polyketone, which significantly contributes to the overall performance and characteristics of the switches. With both switches exhibiting a low coefficient of friction of 0.04, their smoothness is remarkably similar, creating an effortless typing experience. Furthermore, the impressive wear and shock resistance of POK ensures that both the Matcha Latte V2 and Sky V4 are not only durable but also maintain their tactile and auditory performance over time. This shared top housing material ensures that users will experience similar responsiveness and sound profiles, characterized by a smooth and slightly clacky feel when typing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches utilize nylon, a well-known material in switch design, which contributes to their unique acoustic profiles. Nylon's softer nature leads to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, distinguishing it from harder plastics. This inherent acoustic absorption allows the switches to produce a muffled yet rich auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. As both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Sky V4 employ nylon for the bottom housing, they generate a similarly shaped sound signature, reinforcing the enjoyment gained from typing on either switch. The combination of a POK top and nylon bottom enables users to appreciate a rounder sound profile while benefiting from the smooth actuation linkage created by polyketone.
Ultimately, the disparity in materials between the top and bottom housings of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Dareu Sky V4 demonstrates how these switches harmoniously balance both tactile and auditory qualities. As users press down on either switch, they will feel the warmth of nylon's acoustic dampening, influencing the bottom-out sound, while the POK material contributes to the initial smoothness and feedback upon release. The composite effects of the POK top and nylon bottom allow for a symbiotic experience that showcases the merits of both materials, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will be treated to robust and engaging switch performance.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch with the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting similar responsiveness when triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out force differs, as the Matcha Latte V2 does not provide a specified measurement, while the Sky V4’s bottom out force is noted at 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This indicates that the Sky V4 requires a stronger push to fully depress the switch compared to the Matcha Latte V2, which may result in differing user experiences. Those who prefer a lighter switch might gravitate toward the Matcha Latte V2 since it offers a lighter activation feel, allowing for extended typing sessions without excessive strain. Conversely, the Sky V4, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience for users seeking a firmer feedback. Overall, while both switches share the same actuation force, their bottom out characteristics set them apart, catering to varied preferences in tactile feedback and effort.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is identical, measuring at 3.6 mm. This equal travel distance means that users can expect similar results in terms of key responsiveness and feel when pressing down on either switch. With both switches requiring the same amount of travel from top to bottom, typists and gamers alike will experience a consistent actuation sensation, making either option a solid choice for those seeking a balanced keypress feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 it comes to sound, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is known for its subtle characteristics that enhance the typing experience without being overly loud or disruptive. This provides a more understated auditory feedback that is perfect for environments where noise level matters. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switches offer a thocky sound profile, which is deeper and richer than the Matcha Latte V2. This means that typists can expect a satisfying "thud" upon keypress, complemented by a low-pitched resonance that adds a unique ambiance to typing. While the Matcha Latte V2 maintains a neutral sound that blends well in various settings, the more pronounced acoustic feedback from the Sky V4 caters to those who appreciate a more dynamic auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 switch is celebrated for its smoothness, providing a light and fluid typing experience that doesn’t sacrifice the reassuring solidity of the bottom-out. It boasts minimal stem wobble, which further enhances the overall smoothness and responsiveness of each keypress. The Sky V4, on the other hand, is characterized by its bouncy feel, which introduces a lively, spring-like sensation. This gives the Sky V4 a more engaging tactile response, making it enjoyable to type on as it offers a noticeable rebound upon release. While both switches aim for a fluid experience, the Matcha Latte V2 prioritizes smooth operation, while the Sky V4 emphasizes a lively and bouncy feedback that invigorates the typing process.
In summary, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Dareu Sky V4 switches deliver distinct qualities that appeal to different typing preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is ideal for those seeking a refined and quiet typing experience, featuring a smooth feel and subtle sound. Conversely, the Sky V4 caters to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience alongside a bouncy, responsive feel. Depending on your typing style and environment, either of these switches can deliver an exceptional mechanical experience, with the Matcha Latte V2 being suitable for quieter settings and the Sky V4 appealing to those who enjoy a richer sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, your choice should align with your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smooth and subtle linear typing experience, coupled with generous factory lubrication for minimal stem wobble, the Matcha Latte V2 would be an excellent choice. Its lightness and balanced feel provide a comfortable typing experience that can be particularly beneficial for long hours of typing without fatigue, making it suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate a flat yet premium feel. Conversely, if you appreciate a more pronounced sound and tactile feedback, the Dareu Sky V4 is designed to deliver a deeper, thocky sound profile that not only enhances the auditory experience but also offers a bouncy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing action. The medium-light bottom-out force of the Sky V4 may appeal to you if you want a bit more resistance without feeling heavy, making it versatile for both gaming and typing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a smooth, comfortable experience or an engaging, auditory-satisfying one.