Gateron Aliaz vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron Aliaz switches, known for their tactile feedback and quiet operation, are a great fit for those who work in shared spaces or prefer a more subdued typing environment. With a medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz offers a polished and muted feel, delivering a satisfying keystroke experience without the disruptive noise associated with traditional mechanical switches. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches provide a smooth, linear response that appeals to gamers and typists alike, who appreciate the speed of uninterrupted key presses and a balanced sound profile that isn’t too quiet or overly resonant. While the Aliaz excels in environments where discretion is key, the Strawberry Latte is perfect for those who enjoy fluidity in their typing without the tactile feedback of a traditional mechanical switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Huano Strawberry Latte, one can notice distinct differences that contribute to their overall sound and tactile feedback. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its sturdy and stiff construction, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality is particularly beneficial for gamers or typists who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback when key switches are actuated. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte employs a POK (polyketone) top housing. Although POK is smoother with a slight increase in friction compared to other common materials, it provides a unique clacky sound that complements its durability and resilience, making it highly sought after in the switch community. Thus, while both switches utilize materials designed to enhance sound and feel, their tonal characteristics differ significantly, appealing to varied preferences among users.
The bottom housings of these switches contribute further to their sound profiles, representing a more profound contrast between the two models. The Aliaz, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, maintains the high-pitched resonance and clarity established by its top housing, providing a harmonious sound when the key is released. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte employs a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound and provides a more muted auditory experience. This inherent ability of nylon to dampen sound yields a rounder feel during typing, allowing for a completely different tactile experience compared to the sharper notes of the Aliaz. Therefore, the materials used in the bottom housing play a pivotal role in shaping the sound experience and overall typing sensation.
Overall, while both switches utilize high-quality materials, their differing compositions lead to varied results in sound and tactile feedback. The Aliaz's uniform use of polycarbonate throughout both the top and bottom housings lends to a consistent clarity in sound production across keystrokes. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte's combination of POK and nylon cleverly dial down the sharper notes into a softer, more cushioned experience, catering to users who appreciate deeper sound profiles. Ultimately, users looking for a balanced typing experience can choose according to their preferences, as the varied materials influence the resulting auditory feedback and tactile sensations when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch with the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte has a much lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, catering to those who enjoy a less strenuous typing action, ideal for extended periods of use. Thus, the Gateron Aliaz is the heavier option, while the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter choice. The difference in the actuation forces signifies that users may experience more fatigue with the Aliaz during long typing sessions, whereas the lighter forces of the Strawberry Latte allow for a more relaxed, effortless feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Aliaz features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which is often considered more traditional and provides a satisfying depth for those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to users who prefer quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, this means the Gateron Aliaz offers a more substantial feel, while the Huano Strawberry Latte is designed for speed and efficiency, making it ideal for gamers. If you lean towards the tactile experience with hearty depth, the Aliaz would be your choice, whereas the Strawberry Latte would suit those seeking more responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 Gateron Aliaz switches excel in providing a muted auditory experience. Their design specifically minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for quiet environments such as offices. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte is characterized by a balanced sound profile that falls between being too quiet and overly loud. They are neither particularly silent nor excessively resonant, which can create a pleasant sound environment, though it’s essential to note that the sound may vary depending on the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switches are known for their silky and polished characteristics. They deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, allowing for a refined and pleasurable keystroke. This smoothness is achieved through advanced materials and possibly factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction during key travel. The Strawberry Latte switches, however, do not have detailed descriptors provided for their feel, leaving an unknown regarding their tactile characteristics compared to the Aliaz’s silky nature.
In summary, the Gateron Aliaz switches are perfect for users seeking a quiet, yet substantial typing experience, with a focus on smoothness and minimal noise—a blend that caters well to serene workspaces. Meanwhile, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches offer a balanced sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a non-intrusive auditory feedback while typing. The tactile experience of the Aliaz stands out for its smoothness and polished feel, whereas the specificity of the Strawberry Latte's feel remains unclear. Ultimately, if you value a silent, yet tactile and smooth typing experience, the Aliaz is a clear choice, while the Strawberry Latte may suit those who prioritize a more moderate sound experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a quieter typing experience and work in a shared or office setting, the Aliaz switches are an excellent choice, offering a muted sound profile along with a satisfying tactile feedback thanks to their heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams. They deliver a polished feel that can enhance your typing experience without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother, lighter keystroke that allows for quicker and effortless typing, especially if you enjoy gaming or fast-paced typing, the Strawberry Latte switches are perfect. Their lightweight feel (with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams) and balanced sound profile provide an enjoyable experience that’s neither too loud nor overly soft. Therefore, consider how you will use your keyboard to guide your decision: whether you prioritize a quiet, tactile feel for productivity or a smooth, rapid response for gaming and general use.
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