TTC Bluish White vs. Huano Caramel Latte
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Huano Caramel Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly impact your typing experience. The TTC Bluish White switches are a beloved choice for those who appreciate a tactile response, providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience complemented by a snappy sound profile. These switches are particularly appealing for users who enjoy feedback with each keystroke, making them ideal for typists who crave precision and responsiveness. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte switches offer a linear experience characterized by their medium weight of 50g at bottom out and a bright, clacky sound profile. These switches deliver a super smooth typing experience, making them perfect for gamers or anyone who values a seamless flow without the interruption of tactile bumps. While both options have their unique merits—whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Bluish Whites or the effortless gliding of the Caramel Lattes—each caters to distinct typing styles and preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and Huano Caramel Latte switches showcase unique materials in their top housings. The Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its sharp and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This characteristic allows for a highly resonant sound, making it particularly effective in leveraging RGB lighting thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte uses POK (polyketone) material, which is known for its durability and smooth action. While POK has its advantages in terms of friction and wear resistance, it does not provide the same level of sound sharpness associated with polycarbonate. Therefore, while both materials aim to enhance performance, they approach sound production and aesthetic appeal through different attributes.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, however, they are matched with nylon, a classic material revered for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder acoustic experience in both the TTC Bluish White and Huano Caramel Latte switches. This shared component ensures that both switches provide a similar bottom-out feel, characterized by a softer and more muted sound. As a result, users can expect a consistent tactile response and acoustic signature from both switches when bottomed out, even if the top housings differ.
In summation, the interplay of housing materials in the TTC Bluish White and Huano Caramel Latte switches leads to distinctly different tonal characteristics, particularly in the top portion of the switches. The polycarbonate top in the Bluish White emphasizes a sharp and resonant quality, while the POK material of the Caramel Latte prioritizes durability and smoothness over sound clarity. Nevertheless, their shared nylon bottom housing harmonizes their sound profiles, ensuring a deeper and fuller auditory experience during use. Ultimately, while the distinct materials contribute varied performance characteristics, the consistent nylon bottom effectively bridges the gap between the two, resulting in comparable outcomes in terms of user experience.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch present a notable comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which categorizes it as a light switch. In contrast, the Caramel Latte has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. As a result, typists who prefer a lighter touch may find the Bluish White more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke sensation would likely opt for the heavier Caramel Latte. Overall, if users are seeking a more responsive and less tiring experience, the TTC Bluish White is the preferable choice, whereas the Huano Caramel Latte can offer a satisfying heft suited for those who appreciate a more deliberate typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch, the differences are subtle yet significant for users' typing experiences. The Bluish White switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Caramel Latte offers a slightly longer travel distance at 3.6 mm. This means that the Bluish White is the shorter option, which may appeal to those who prioritize faster response times, commonly sought by gamers. On the other hand, the Caramel Latte, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper activation point. Ultimately, although the difference is just 0.1 mm, it can affect the overall feel and performance, making these switches cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Bluish White switch presents a snappy and low-pitched auditory profile that gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during use. This characteristic allows for a satisfying feedback when typing, making it an engaging choice for those who appreciate tactile sensations that are complemented by a pleasing auditory experience. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte switch boasts a bright and clacky sound, which provides a lively and vibrant typographical atmosphere. This contrasting sound profile can excite typists who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback with their keystrokes. It's important to note that the sound each switch produces can also vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the TTC Bluish White switch excels in providing a variety of tactile experiences. Its buttery smoothness lends an effortless typing sensation, while its mild nature ensures that the typing experience is accessible for most users without being too overwhelming. The stepped tactile feedback allows typists to feel two distinct stages in their keystrokes, providing a comfortable and natural typing rhythm. Furthermore, the polished finish enhances smooth key travel and reduces friction, contributing to a refined experience. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte switch is known for its smoothness and medium weight of 50g bottom out, though specific descriptive details regarding its feel were not provided. However, one can expect that a linear switch generally offers a more uniform and consistent keystroke without the tactile bumps associated with other types.
In summary, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is characterized by its low-pitched, snappy sound and a complex array of tactile sensations that make it ideal for those who appreciate a nuanced typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch offers a bright, clacky sound along with a smooth and enjoyable typing feel, though specific tactile qualities are largely unspecified. Ultimately, while these switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel, both can provide an enjoyable typing experience depending on the user's individual taste and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and environment. If you lean towards a tactile experience with a lighter actuation force, the Bluish White is ideal for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force allows for effortless keystrokes, complemented by its low-pitched, snappy sound profile that can enhance a playful typing experience. These characteristics make the Bluish White a suitable option for both casual typists and gamers who appreciate a responsive touch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch that offers a smoother, clackier feel, the Caramel Latte may be your best choice. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams, these switches provide a precision that caters to those who enjoy extended typing sessions without finger fatigue, while also producing a bright sound profile. In essence, if you desire tactile feedback and sound, go for the Bluish White; but if you're after smoothness and a satisfying linear experience, the Caramel Latte won't disappoint. Your choice will ultimately shape your typing experience, so consider what aspects you value the most before making your decision.
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