Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue 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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle linear typing that strikes a perfect balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, it presents an accessible option for those seeking premium performance without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches are known for their distinctively deep and thocky sound profile, immersing users in a rich auditory experience. Featuring a lengthened single-stage spring that contributes to a bouncy feel with each keystroke, they appeal to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing sensation. While both switches are linear and cater to users who prefer a quieter operation, their tactile feedback and sound profiles set them apart. 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
59g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue differ significantly in their housing materials, particularly in their top and bottom sections. The Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK material for its top housing, which is known for its smoothness and durability. Its coefficient of friction is slightly higher than that of LY, making it an exceptional choice for providing a smooth feel during typing, contributing to a clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue has a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. This difference in material affects the auditory experience distinctly, with the polycarbonate enhancing higher frequencies, while the POK material lends itself to a smoother yet robust experience.
In the bottom housing, the two switches take diverging paths once again. The Matcha Latte V2 employs a nylon bottom housing, which is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, thus creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic contributes to the typing experience being more muted, providing a softer tactile feedback. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which results in a cleaner and more resonant sound profile. The stiffer plastic construction of the bottom housing in the Everglide enhances higher-pitch sounds, establishing a sound profile that is notably brighter compared to the Matcha Latte's deep, rounder tones.
Despite the distinct tonal qualities produced by the different materials, both switches can still yield an engaging typing experience, albeit with different auditory characteristics. Users who prioritize a clacky and smooth typing experience may prefer the Matcha Latte V2's POK top housing combined with a nylon bottom, while those who favor a crisp, high-pitched sound will find the polycarbonate construction of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue more appealing. Ultimately, the diverse housing materials play a significant role in shaping the unique sound signature and tactile feedback of each switch, but irrespective of the differences, both can achieve satisfying performance outcomes.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Matcha Latte V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less tiring typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. The bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unspecified, while the Tourmaline Blue has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more pronounced resistance at the end of the keystroke. Therefore, users seeking a lighter switch should opt for the Matcha Latte V2, while those looking for a firmer typing experience may find the Tourmaline Blue more satisfying due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is clear that they differ, with the Matcha Latte V2 having a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tourmaline Blue measures 4 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and more immediate keystrokes. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue's longer travel distance allows for a more pronounced depth that some users may find preferable for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Matcha Latte V2 may be the better choice, while the Tourmaline Blue caters to those who enjoy a deeper and more deliberate keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 profile that remains generally quiet during operation. This makes it a good choice for environments where noise might be a concern, providing an unobtrusive typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, which adds a richer auditory experience during typing. This combination of depth and resonance can make for a more immersive typing session, appealing to users who enjoy a pronounced sound feedback from their keystrokes. However, it's important to note that the overall sound will be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap material, potentially leading to varying experiences across different setups.
When considering the feel, the Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is praised for its light actuation force and solid bottom-out sensation, lending it a balanced typing experience that resonates with many users. The generous factory lubrication helps to minimize stem wobble, offering a smooth and responsive key press with a satisfying weight to each downstroke. Alternatively, the Tourmaline Blue switch provides a bouncy and buttery feel, which is described as seamless and effortless during typing. This switch also features an easy-to-press action, demanding minimal force for actuation, ultimately resulting in a low-impact typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue over prolonged use. Many users may find both switches to be comfortable and enjoyable, although their distinctive tactile responses may cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches present appealing attributes that cater to various user preferences. While the Matcha Latte V2 excels in providing a light and unobtrusive sound and a smooth linear feel, the Tourmaline Blue engages users with its deep, rich sound and bouncy tactile feedback. Choosing between the two would depend largely on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a more pronounced auditory impact. Regardless of the option selected, both switches promise a satisfying and responsive typing experience that enhances overall productivity and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and subtle typing experience coupled with a lightweight feel, the Matcha Latte V2’s generous factory lubrication and solid bottom-out make it an excellent option for long typing sessions where comfort reigns supreme. This switch's ability to deliver premium linear performance at an accessible price point makes it particularly appealing for casual users, gamers, or anyone who enjoys a more fluid keystroke without the need for a heavier activation force. On the other hand, if you find enjoyment in a deeper, more tactile experience with enhanced sound, the Tourmaline Blue switch is your go-to. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force provides a bounce that many users crave, while its neutral sound profile ensures versatility for any environment, whether it be at home or in an office setting. Furthermore, the buttery and effortless keystroke of the Tourmaline Blue can enhance your typing rhythm, making it enjoyable for both novice and experienced typists. In essence, your decision should reflect whether you desire a lighter, smoother actuation for comfort, or a more robust, auditory typing experience that keeps you engaged.
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