Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique linear experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and subtle typing feel, characterized by a satisfying balance between lightness and solid bottom-out feedback. It's designed with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, providing a premium typing experience at an accessible price point. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream captures attention with its innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, resulting in a remarkably smooth and creamy feel. This switch stands out not only for its tactile experience but also for its high-pitched and clacky sound signature, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback as well. Both switches present compelling features for different types of users—those seeking a refined typing experience might gravitate toward the Matcha Latte V2, while those looking for a more resonant and unique auditory experience may prefer the Vanilla Ice Cream. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.99 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, it is clear that they utilize different materials for the top and bottom housings, which ultimately influences their acoustic characteristics and tactile feedback. The Matcha Latte V2 features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness due to a low coefficient of friction (0.04) and exceptional durability, being 14 times stronger than POM. This material not only provides a clacky sound signature but also ensures a long lifespan due to its impressive wear and shock resistance. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream employs a proprietary KTT blend for its top housing, which, while unspecified, is noted for producing a high-pitched and clacky sound. The differences in material chemistry likely lead to variations in how sound waves propagate when the keys are activated, with the Matcha's POK providing a certain consistency and robustness that may differ from the unique sonic qualities of the KTT blend.

The bottom housings of these switches further emphasize the variance between the two models. The Huano Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized for its sound-absorbing properties. The resulting deeper and fuller sound profile that nylon offers creates a pleasant contrast with the sharper tones produced by the POK upper section. This harmony of materials allows for a distinctive auditory experience. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing, mirroring the top housing of the Matcha V2. This consistency in material across both sections of the Vanilla Ice Cream may contribute to a more unified sound signature while reinforcing the switch's durability and smoothness under pressure.

In both switches, the distinction between the top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. For the Matcha Latte V2, the combination of POK and nylon results in a nuanced interaction where the top housing's smoothness complements the deeper sound produced by the nylon bottom. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, with its dual POK composition, will likely produce a more consistent tonal quality while retaining a clacky sound due to the material properties of polyketone. Regardless of their differences, both switches promise a satisfying performance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we see some notable differences in their actuation forces and the information available on bottom out forces. The Matcha Latte V2 features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream’s actuation force of 43 grams, indicating that the Matcha Latte V2 may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is unavailable, while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is classified as light. This implies that if users prioritize a lighter keystroke feeling for extended use, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream may be the more suitable choice, especially since its overall actuation and bottom out forces suggest a softer typing experience. Overall, the Vanilla Ice Cream is the lighter switch in terms of actuation force, whereas the Matcha Latte V2 remains an option for those who prefer a slightly heavier feel when typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, the Matcha Latte V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that if responsiveness is a priority for you, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may offer the quicker actuation you’re seeking due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, those who prefer a more robust tactile feedback might appreciate the extra 0.1 mm travel distance of the Matcha Latte V2, which can provide a more pronounced depth with each keystroke. Both switches are in the realm of shorter travel distances, aligning with contemporary preferences, but the Matcha Latte V2 provides that additional depth for those who favor it.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers a more muted acoustic profile, facilitating a subtle typing experience that allows for relaxed typing sessions without attracting too much attention. This is perfect for those who may prefer a quieter workspace. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch boasts a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, featuring a marbly and resonant quality. This sharper auditory feedback can evoke a more immersive typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a livelier and more distinct sound with their keystrokes. While both switches cater to different sound preferences, it's important to remember that the actual acoustic result can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycap choices.

When it comes to feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is characterized by its smoothness, buoyant lightness, and solid bottom-out experience thanks to generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This design results in a satisfying typing sensation that balances comfort with feedback. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream positions itself with a notably creamy and buttery feel, due to the high-quality materials used in its construction. The fluid and seamless keystrokes make typing on these switches feel effortless, akin to gliding fingers across the keys. While both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, the Matcha Latte V2 leans towards a more straightforward performance, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers an ultra-smooth ride.

Conclusively, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches present distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Matcha Latte V2 appeals to those seeking understated acoustics and a solid typing sensation, while the Vanilla Ice Cream is ideal for users who enjoy lively sounds and a luxuriously smooth feel. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on one's personal taste in sound and tactile feedback; however, both options promise high-quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and sound profile desires. If you're seeking a switch that combines smoothness with a balanced, solid feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice. Its lightweight touch, paired with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, ensures a premium typing experience without any distractions. This makes it ideal for extensive typing sessions or when you prefer a quieter, more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more auditory experience while typing, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch shines with its high-pitched, clacky sound signature and a notably creamy tactile feel, reminiscent of its namesake dessert. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 48 grams provides a satisfying feedback that some typists find more engaging. Thus, if you enjoy a more lively typing feel, and appreciate sound that stands out, the Vanilla Ice Cream is the way to go. In essence, your choice will hinge on whether you value a smooth and subtle experience or a bold auditory landscape, both of which these switches offer in their own unique ways.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more