Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gazzew U4. The Matcha Latte V2 shines as a linear switch, celebrated for its smooth and subtle typing experience. With a delightful balance between lightness and a solid bottom-out feel, these switches are designed with generous factory lubrication and minimized stem wobble, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate a silky-smooth keystroke. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a unique typing sensation reminiscent of a plush, felt-like bottom-out. Not only do they deliver impressive feedback, but they also operate with a whisper-quiet sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle auditory experience. Whether you're leaning towards the fluidity of the Matcha Latte V2 or the tactile satisfaction of the U4, the right switch depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the Gazzew U4 switches, it is evident that both models feature uniquely designed top housings that cater to different aural and tactile experiences. The Matcha Latte V2's POK top housing is engineered for exceptional durability and smoothness, exhibiting impressive wear resistance and shock absorption capabilities. Its coefficient of friction slightly exceeds that of LY, making it one of the smoothest options available. In contrast, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend, colloquially known as "boba plastic," emphasizes acoustic performance, delivering a depth of sound due to its softer composition. While both top housings create varied sound profiles, the Matcha Latte V2 leans more towards a clacky sound due to its rigidity, whereas the Gazzew U4 is designed to produce a richer auditory experience, potentially leading to a softer typing feel.
The bottom housings of the Matcha Latte V2 and Gazzew U4 switches similarly utilize proprietary materials that contribute to their sound profiles, but with different foundational characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Matcha Latte V2 is recognized for its acoustic dampening qualities, absorbing sound and giving users a fuller and deeper auditory feedback while typing. This is essential in crafting a more polished and rounded sound profile, one that typists may find soothing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 employs the same soft "boba plastic" blend in its bottom housing, which echoes the acoustic advantages mentioned for the top housing. Both switches utilize softness to enhance their sound, thus leading to a deeper bottom-out experience, ensuring that users will find comfort in typing despite the varied origins of the materials.
Ultimately, while the top and bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly in composition—POK versus a proprietary blend—their audio characteristics and tactile experiences converge in a seamless user experience. Since the bottom housing predominantly shapes the bottom-out sound and feel, the Gazzew U4 and Matcha Latte V2 can offer similar auditory experiences despite the difference in material. Both switches generally excel in providing a rich sound due to their soft properties, allowing users to enjoy a typing experience characterized by pleasing acoustics and tactile feedback, showcasing the innovative approaches each brand takes towards enhancing keyboard ergonomics.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is interesting to note their actuation forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will experience a similar level of pressure needed to trigger a keystroke, making them fairly comparable in terms of ease of actuation. However, the Gazzew U4 has a distinct bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Matcha Latte V2 is unknown. This suggests that the U4 provides a more substantial feel when fully depressing the key, making it a better choice for those who prefer a heavier switch, while the Matcha Latte V2 might appeal to users looking for a lighter experience overall, especially given the unknown bottom out force which could potentially be lower. Therefore, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Gazzew U4’s additional bottom out feedback adds significant weight to its tactile response, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this regard. This means that users pressing down on either switch will experience the same key travel distance, resulting in a consistent tactile response during typing or gaming. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and overall performance from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 comes in at $3.99, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 Matcha Latte V2 linear switch delivers a smooth and subdued acoustic experience, contributing to an overall pleasant typing environment. Its design minimizes the typical clackiness associated with many mechanical keyboards, resulting in a sound profile that many users find satisfying but not overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is characterized by a muted and low-pitched sound. This means that when typing, the auditory feedback is subdued, producing a softer and quieter sound profile compared to more traditional switches. Together, while the Matcha Latte V2 offers a gentle sound, the U4’s whisper-quiet nature ensures a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 linear switch stands out for its smooth and subtle typing experience, providing a balance of lightness with a satisfying bottom-out sensation. Users will appreciate the generous factory lubrication that enhances its linear performance while minimizing stem wobble, making for a consistent typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is designed to provide a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that stands out with each keystroke. This distinct tactile feedback is complemented by an unexpectedly plush bottom-out feel, which contrasts nicely with its sharp feedback, providing a nuanced typing sensation that many find engaging.
In conclusion, both the Matcha Latte V2 and Gazzew U4 switches cater to different typing preferences, excelling in their respective realms. The Matcha Latte V2 offers a smooth linear feel and a pleasant sound, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more streamlined typing experience. Conversely, the U4's tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation provide a rich tactile feedback for users who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches will deliver satisfying results, though the experience will be distinctively different.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a smooth and subtle typing experience, where every keystroke feels fluid and light without overwhelming feedback, the Matcha Latte V2 is a fantastic option. Its premium linear performance, coupled with minimal stem wobble and generous factory lubrication, makes it ideal for those who prioritize a clean, uninterrupted feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, characterized by a sharp and exhilarating bump, then the Gazzew U4 should be your switch of choice. These switches offer a plush feel upon bottoming out, along with a whisper-quiet operation that makes them perfect for shared spaces or late-night typists. In the end, it all boils down to whether you value a smooth linear experience or a pronounced tactile bump, making both switches suitable for different scenarios and user preferences.
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