Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Snow offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike, both being excellent options in the realm of linear switches. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth, subtle typing experience that strikes a perfect balance between lightness and a satisfying solid bottom-out feel, enhanced by generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This makes it a fantastic choice for those seeking an affordable yet premium linear performance. In contrast, the Dareu Snow is distinguished by its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, producing a deeper sound signature that appeals to users who enjoy a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched typing experience. While the Matcha Latte V2 excels in providing a lightweight and smooth ride, the Snow emphasizes a richer auditory experience and a bouncier feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Snow utilize POK (polyketone) material for their top housings, resulting in identical performance characteristics in this regard. The POK material is known for its low coefficient of friction of 0.04, making it one of the smoothest options available for switch construction. This smoothness is complemented by its exceptional durability, with wear resistance that is 14 times greater than POM, contributing to a longer lifespan for the switches. The shock resistance of POK also surpasses that of Nylon and POM, ensuring that both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Snow will deliver a robust typing experience characterized by a satisfyingly smooth and clacky feel.
However, while the top housings of both switches are composed of the same high-performing POK material, the bottom housings differ. Both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Snow feature nylon bottom housings, which are recognized in the keyboard community for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon’s softer nature, which dampens sound more effectively than harder plastics, thus resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic signature. Therefore, both switches will share similar auditory properties influenced by the nylon bottom portion, contributing to a harmonious aesthetic when typing.
In summary, while the top housings of both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Snow are identical in material composition and therefore offer the same benefits regarding smoothness and durability, the nylon bottom housings create a unique tonal quality that enhances the typing experience. The balance of sturdiness from the POK tops combined with the sound-dampening properties of nylon bottoms means that users can achieve a consistent and enjoyable typing experience whether choosing the Matcha Latte V2 or the Snow. With these complementary materials, both switches promise to deliver satisfying auditory and tactile feedback, catering to keyboard enthusiasts looking for high-performance options.
Weight
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Snow linear switches exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, impacting user experience. The Matcha Latte V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Snow's heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This lighter force makes the Matcha Latte V2 more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to actuate a keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch, with its higher actuation force, offers a more substantial typing experience, favored by those who prefer a firmer feel. While the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unspecified, the Dareu Snow offers a clear bottom out force of 60 grams. Consequently, users seeking a lighter and more effortless keystroke should lean towards the Matcha Latte V2, whereas those who appreciate a stronger push may find the Dareu Snow better suited to their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Matcha Latte V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Snow features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Snow would be the better choice, as it offers a quicker actuation. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for its depth when typing. If you enjoy a hearty depth and do not mind a slightly slower response time, the Matcha Latte V2 would suit your preferences more comfortably. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches can influence your overall typing experience based on your preference for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Matcha Latte V2 is characterized by a smooth and subtle acoustic profile that allows for a pleasant typing experience without too much distraction. It tends to have a balanced sound that sits comfortably in the mix, making it suitable for both work and leisure environments where noise levels should be kept in check. The Snow switch, on the other hand, delivers a distinctly deeper sound signature, heavily influenced by its innovative POK material, which lends a thocky quality to every keystroke. Users will notice a rich, satisfying thud with each press, complemented by a low-pitched tone that adds a layer of warmth to the overall sound. This makes the Snow particularly inviting for those who appreciate auditory feedback in their typing experience.
When considering the feel, the Matcha Latte V2 excels with a smooth linear typing experience that strikes a fantastic balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out sensation. This design minimizes stem wobble and enhances the overall experience through generous factory lubrication, contributing to a refined and premium feel during usage. In contrast, the Snow switch offers a more bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that makes each press feel lively and energetic. This responsive characteristic invites fluid typing, allowing for a sense of rebound that can enhance speed and precision during extended use.
Overall, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Dareu Snow switches cater to distinct preferences within the realm of linear switches. The Matcha Latte V2 focuses on a smooth and subtle auditory and tactile experience, while the Snow switch captivates with its deeper sound profile and bouncy feel. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on whether one prioritizes a slick, refined typing experience or a more dynamic and responsive interaction with a satisfying auditory feedback. Whichever option you go for, both switches promise quality performance in different yet enjoyable ways.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Dareu Snow linear switches, your decision should hinge on both your typing style and sound preference. If you’re looking for a smooth and subtle typing experience with a solid bottom-out feel and minimal stem wobble, the Matcha Latte V2 could be your ideal choice. It's especially suitable for those who appreciate a light touch and want a well-lubricated switch that delivers premium performance without being overly taxing. On the other hand, if you favor a more robust typing experience with a distinct sound profile, the Snow switch's thocky and low-pitched tones will likely be more appealing. The bouncy feedback provided by the Snow makes it a delight for typists who enjoy a springy sensation with each keystroke, while its 60g actuation force offers a pleasing balance for those who prefer a medium resistance. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only what feels best under your fingers but also the auditory experience you wish to cultivate in your typing environment.
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