Huano Acacia vs. Huano Caramel Latte
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Huano Caramel Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Huano Acacia and Huano Caramel Latte linear switches, enthusiasts can find distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences in typing and gaming experiences. The Acacia switches are renowned for their medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, allowing for an exceptionally smooth typing experience right from the start; minimal stem wobble further enhances their appeal for users seeking stability and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Caramel Latte switches feature a medium weight of 50g at bottom out and are celebrated for their bright, clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory feedback that adds an engaging element to every keystroke. While both switches provide a linear feel, the Acacia leans towards a more subdued and stable typing experience, whereas the Caramel Latte emphasizes a vibrant sound that some users might find exhilarating. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Acacia and Huano Caramel Latte switches exhibit intriguing contrasts, particularly in their top housings. The Acacia features a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its rigidity and translucency. This design results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it well-suited for RGB lighting setups that highlight the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In comparison, the Caramel Latte employs a POK (polyketone) top housing, known for its smoothness and remarkable durability. The sound produced by the Caramel Latte is described as clacky and satisfying, facilitated by POK's unique friction properties and wear resistance. Thus, while both switches aim to deliver distinct auditory experiences, the materials used in their top housings set them apart in terms of sound quality and functionality.
On the other hand, both the Huano Acacia and Huano Caramel Latte share nylon as their bottom housing material, which introduces a fascinating element of similarity in their overall sound profiles. Nylon is renowned in the switch industry for generating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic means that when typing on either switch, users are likely to experience a more rounded auditory response, regardless of the unique qualities offered by their differing top housings. As such, while the Acacia and Caramel Latte diverge in terms of their top materials, they converge in providing a pleasant typing experience fueled by the sound-dampening properties of nylon.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches results in a nuanced auditory profile that reflects their individual characteristics. In the case of the Huano Acacia, the positive crispness of polycarbonate in the top housing is balanced by the fuller sound generated from the nylon bottom. The Huano Caramel Latte, meanwhile, pairs its smooth, clacky top housing of POK with the same deeper sound from the nylon bottom, making both switches inherently different yet equally enjoyable to type on. Therefore, while users may appreciate the distinction between the Acacia's crisper sounds and the Caramel Latte's clackiness, the underlying foundation of nylon in both bottom housings ensures a consistently rich typing experience across both models.
Weight
Both the Huano Acacia and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switches share identical specifications when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. Each switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing them as medium-light options. This similarity means that users will experience the same typing feel and resistance when pressing the keys, making them suitable for those who appreciate a lighter touch, such as typists engaged in long sessions or gamers seeking comfort during extended gameplay. Since both switches offer the same force measurements, users can expect a consistent experience regardless of their choice between the two. Ultimately, opting for either switch will yield a comparable typing experience with a lighter actuation and bottom out force, appealing to those who favor a less strenuous keypress.
Travel distance
The Huano Acacia linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference between the two switches is minimal, it does indicate a preference for gamers seeking quicker response times, as the Acacia's shorter travel distance may provide a more immediate feel when pressing down the keys. Conversely, the Caramel Latte's longer travel distance could appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation, offering a cushioned depth that some users find more comfortable. Thus, for those prioritizing responsiveness, the Acacia would be a preferable choice, while the Caramel Latte caters to those who favor a more traditional keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Caramel Latte has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Latte for $2.75.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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 Acacia linear switch is notably quieter compared to its counterpart, the Caramel Latte. The Acacia generally produces a more muted, subdued auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a less intrusive keyboard sound. In contrast, the Caramel Latte is characterized by its bright, clacky sound profile, which provides a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. This acoustic distinction largely enhances the typing experience, making the Caramel Latte ideal for users who enjoy the audible affirmations of their presses. However, it's important to remember that the final sound will be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Huano Acacia offers a comfortable experience thanks to its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, which minimizes friction, resulting in a smooth keystroke. Additionally, the minimal stem wobble contributes to a stable typing sensation. Conversely, the Caramel Latte switches provide a medium weight at 50g bottom out, ensuring a reassuring resistance that many typists may appreciate. The combination of the smooth operation and the slight tactile feedback associated with the Caramel Latte makes for a pleasurable typing experience, though it is inherently different from the Acacia's more relaxed feel.
In conclusion, both the Huano Acacia and Caramel Latte linear switches cater to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Acacia offers a quieter, smoother typing experience, ideal for those who prefer less noise and a more muted feedback. Meanwhile, the Caramel Latte excels with its bright acoustics and a firmer typing feel, appealing to users who appreciate a lively sound and tactile response. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, but both promise an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Acacia and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switches, your choice will largely depend on your preferences for sound and typing experience. If you prefer a switch that provides a smooth, quiet typing experience right out of the box with minimal stem wobble, the Acacia would be a solid choice. Its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication ensure that typing feels effortless, making it ideal for those who prioritize a consistent and comfortable feel while working on long writing sessions or coding tasks. On the other hand, if you're looking for something that delivers a more vibrant auditory experience alongside a buttery smooth feel, the Caramel Latte is the way to go. Its bright, clacky sound profile adds a layer of auditory feedback that can enhance your typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value a tranquil atmosphere or find joy in the auditory cues of your switches.
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