Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Huano Strawberry Latte 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 Huano Strawberry Latte are two excellent linear options that offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and balanced typing experience, providing a delightful combination of lightness and a satisfying bottom-out feel thanks to its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This makes it a fantastic choice for typists seeking a reliable and premium linear switch without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte stands out with its super smooth operation, leveraging the latest molds from Huano to create a balanced sound profile that strikes a good balance—not too quiet but also not overly resonant. This could appeal to users who prioritize auditory feedback alongside tactile performance. Both switches have their unique advantages and cater to varying preferences, making them worthy candidates for any keyboard enthusiast. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Huano Strawberry Latte share an identical top housing material, POK (polyketone), which is renowned for its smoothness and durability. Both switches feature a POK top housing that boasts a coefficient of friction of 0.04, making it one of the smoothest options available, slightly higher than LY's 0.03. This material's impressive wear resistance—14 times stronger than POM—and superior shock resistance, surpassing both Nylon and POM, contribute similarly to the clacky and responsive sound profile in both switches. The use of POK in both models means users can expect comparable performance in terms of tactile response and overall smooth actuation, regardless of the model they choose.
In contrast, both the Matcha Latte V2 and the Strawberry Latte utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon's inherent properties result in a distinct sound profile, characterized as deeper and fuller compared to switches made from harder plastics. Its softness allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a rounder bottom-out effect. This commonality in bottom housing materials means that both models will produce a similar acoustic experience when pressed, providing users with a richer auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. The combination of nylon bottom housing with POK top housing ensures that regardless of which switch you choose, the typing sound will remain full and gratifying.
Overall, while the Matcha Latte V2 and Strawberry Latte may showcase different aesthetic or branding elements, the similarities in their housing materials—identical POK top housings and shared nylon bottom housings—create a consistent tactile and acoustic palette for users. This homogeneity means that those selecting between the two can expect similar typing performance and sound profiles, making the choice primarily a matter of preference regarding the specific branding or any subtle differences in feel that may arise from their design.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Matcha Latte V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Strawberry Latte's actuation force is lighter at 35 grams. This difference means that typists and gamers who prefer a lighter feel for prolonged usage may find the Strawberry Latte switch more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier Matcha Latte V2 might appeal to users who desire a more substantial push feel and tactile feedback, lending itself to a more deliberate typing experience. As for the bottom out force, the Matcha Latte V2's value is unavailable while the Strawberry Latte bottoms out at 45 grams, making it a defined point at which the key presses fully down. Therefore, with the actuation force of the Matcha Latte V2 being greater and the bottom out force of the Strawberry Latte being specified, the Matcha Latte V2 is the heavier switch and the Strawberry Latte is the lighter option.
Travel distance
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they provide a similar key feel when pressed. This equal travel distance means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with both switches, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same for each. As a result, those choosing between the two will find that their typing or gaming performance will not be affected by differences in travel distance, allowing for comparable results in functionality.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 switches produce a pleasant auditory experience characterized by a balanced sound profile that strikes a fine balance between subtlety and presence. While they are not the quietest switches available, they won't disrupt your environment with excessive noise either, making them suitable for both office and home settings. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches also offer a balanced sound that avoids extremes; they are not overly quiet yet refrain from being harshly resonant. The resulting acoustic experience from both switches can vary depending on the keyboard construction and keycap choice, but they both embody a refined sound quality that does not draw unnecessary attention.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 excels in delivering a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The light actuation combined with a solid bottom-out sensation creates a typing feel that is simultaneously playful and reliable. Thanks to generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, these switches contribute to a silky-smooth keystroke. In comparison, the Strawberry Latte switches promise an equally smooth experience, benefitting from the latest manufacturing techniques that ensure consistency in performance. Both switches allow for fluid typing, but the Matcha Latte V2 has a slight edge in its sense of lightness, while the Strawberry Latte provides a robust engagement that some typists may prefer.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and Strawberry Latte linear switches deliver excellent performance with their own unique characteristics. They share a desirable smooth typing feel, with the Matcha Latte V2 offering a lighter touch and the Strawberry Latte providing a solid engagement. Sound-wise, both switches maintain a balanced profile that fits well in various environments, ensuring that neither will be particularly intrusive. Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to personal preference—whether you lean towards a more delicate feel or prefer a robust keystroke, each option promises a quality tactile experience that meets the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches, consider your typing preferences and style. If you value a smooth, subtle linear feel with a satisfying balance and a more premium performance due to its minimal stem wobble and generous factory lubrication, the Matcha Latte V2 is likely the best choice for you. It is ideal for those who seek an ultra-smooth typing experience without overwhelming resistance, making it great for both gaming and long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more tactile feedback with a bit of a firmer feel, the Strawberry Latte, which has a 45-gram bottom-out force, may suit you better. Its balanced sound profile and superior smoothness from the latest molds from Huano make it excellent for both casual typing and intensive gaming while maintaining a pleasant auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences for sound and feel, which will enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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