Huano Matcha Latte V2 vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the TTC Venus both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences, particularly among linear switch enthusiasts. The Matcha Latte V2 is celebrated for its smooth and pleasant typing experience that strikes an excellent balance between lightness and a satisfying bottom-out feel. Its generous factory lubrication ensures minimal stem wobble and a premium feel, all at an accessible price point, making it a fantastic choice for users seeking a refined linear switch experience. In contrast, the TTC Venus offers a frictionless glide that mimics the delightful springiness of chewy mochi, thanks to its distinctive "Q-texture." This switch features light actuation for quick typing and a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize a quieter work environment without sacrificing performance. Both switches deliver exceptional linear characteristics, yet cater to slightly different user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the TTC Venus each showcase distinct materials in their top housing, which plays a pivotal role in shaping their sound profiles. The Matcha Latte V2 employs polyketone (POK), a material noted for its low friction coefficient of 0.04 and exceptional durability, being 14 times stronger than POM. This contributes to a remarkably smooth key press experience, enhancing not just the tactile feedback but also the auditory pleasure with a clacky sound. In contrast, the TTC Venus utilizes POM for its top housing, which is lauded for producing a unique and deeper sound profile. The deeper sound could be attributed to the slightly higher friction and inherent properties of POM, resulting in a muted auditory signature. While both materials aim to provide smoothness in operation, their differing acoustic characteristics could affect user preference depending on whether they favor more pronounced or subdued sound profiles.
When examining the bottom housing, the Matcha Latte V2 features nylon, a classic material recognized for its softer touch and ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, complementing the overall sound profile of the switch. Conversely, the TTC Venus opts for polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that yields a sharper and crisper sound profile. This pronounced quality could lead to a more distinct auditory feedback during typing, reinforcing the disparity in sound aesthetics between the two switches. With the bottom housing influencing the essentially bottom-out sound, the characteristics of each material will lead to a notable difference in how each switch feels and sounds when fully pressed compared to their respective top housings.
While the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and TTC Venus utilize different materials for their switch housings, there is potential for achieving a cohesive typing experience through their unique compositions. Users may find it enjoyable to experiment with different combinations of top and bottom housings, as the materials can yield intriguing blends of tactile feedback and sound. For example, pairing the smooth POK top of the Matcha Latte V2 with the crisper polycarbonate bottom of the Venus could create a unique typing experience that marries clarity with smoothness, while vice versa might lead to a mellow, round sound profile. Ultimately, both switches deliver exceptional performance, yet their materials guide the way users interact with and perceive their typing moments.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar resistance when triggering a keystroke. However, the differences arise with their bottom out forces. The Matcha Latte V2's bottom out force is not available, while the Venus has a more defined bottom out force of 52 grams, classified as medium-light. This means that while the typing experience might feel uniform initially due to the same actuation force, the Venus switch will require additional force to bottom out, providing a heavier feel overall when the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 remains a suitable option, whereas the TTC Venus offers a bit more resistance, appealing to users who favor a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Matcha Latte V2 the shorter option by 0.2 mm. For those who prioritize quick response times, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 might be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance, enabling faster actuation. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial and tactile experience with deeper keystrokes, the TTC Venus, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying feel. In summary, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Matcha Latte V2's 3.6 mm travel distance provides a snappier response compared to the more robust and deliberate 3.8 mm of the Venus.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch is noted for its smooth operation; however, a specific sound profile isn't explicitly detailed. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch stands out for its low-pitched, muted, and subdued characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience than many traditional mechanical switches. The Venus’s more notable qualities include a neutral sound profile that makes it versatile for various environments, along with a thocky resonance that delivers a deep, satisfying auditory feedback reminiscent of a soft thud. Thus, while the Matcha Latte V2 may not assert its sound profile as distinctly, users can expect a more subtle auditory experience with it, akin to the Venus but without the richness of depth.
In terms of feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is recognized for its smooth and light typing experience, effectively blending a light touch with a solid bottom-out sensation, thanks to its minimal stem wobble and generous factory lubrication. Comparatively, the TTC Venus employs an innovative internal design that offers a buttery, frictionless glide, delivering a seamless keystroke experience. Furthermore, the Venus’s gummy sensation at bottom-out creates a unique typing experience akin to pressing down on a trampoline or gummy bear. Both switches aim to provide a premium, polished feel for the user, but the distinct textures and characteristics of the Venus may appeal to those who appreciate a more dynamic typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Huano Matcha Latte V2 and the TTC Venus linear switches offer distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences, with the Matcha Latte V2 providing a smooth, subtle feel and the Venus emphasizing a unique tactile quality through its design and texture. While the sound profile of the Matcha Latte V2 remains somewhat elusive, the Venus excels with its low-pitched and thocky characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect a refined experience from either option, but the choice will largely depend on personal preference between a smoother, lighter touch and an innovative, textured sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying balance of bottom-out feel, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option. Its premium linear performance, minimal stem wobble, and overall accessible price point make it well-suited for both casual and extensive typing sessions. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a typing experience that feels effortless but still provides that gratifying sensation of bottoming out. On the other hand, if you favor a more springy, textured feel with a unique "Q-texture" reminiscent of chewy mochi, the TTC Venus would be your better choice. It's great for rapid, effortless typing due to its light actuation force, making it a wonderful option for fast-paced typists or gamers who require quick feedback. Furthermore, the Venus's muted and low-pitched sound profile offers a more subdued typing experience, perfect for shared work environments or quiet settings. In the end, consider where and how you'll be using your keyboard to make the best choice between these two compelling switches.
Mentioned in this article
