Kailh Box Royal vs. Huano Caramel Latte

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, particularly between tactile and linear options. The Kailh Box Royal switches stand out with their exceptionally sharp and binary tactile feedback, making them ideal for users who crave a pronounced sensation with each keystroke. Their higher-pitched sound profile further enhances the experience, adding a unique auditory element that many typists find satisfying. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte switches offer a different appeal with their smooth linear action and 50g actuation weight, providing a seamless typing experience that emphasizes fluidity over tactile feedback. Coupled with a bright, clacky sound, these switches are perfect for those who prioritize a quieter yet responsive feel. Both switches cater to different typing styles; while the Box Royals deliver an aggressive tactile response for enthusiasts who enjoy feedback, Caramel Lattes excel in smoothness and ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Huano Caramel Latte, it is essential to note the differences and similarities in the top housings. The Box Royal's top housing is constructed from nylon, a material celebrated for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper, more rounded sound profile. Nylon's sound-absorbing qualities enable it to produce a muted typing experience that many users appreciate for its richness and depth. In contrast, the Caramel Latte features a POK top housing, which, while relatively smooth and durable, introduces a different character to the typing experience. The POK material’s slightly higher coefficient of friction adds to a unique sensation, resulting in a clackier sound, a departure from the softer tone provided by nylon.

The bottom housings of both switches, however, are made from the same nylon material. This consistency means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when bottoming out the keys. The nylon bottom housing in both switches tends to create a fuller sound upon key press, reflecting the inherent qualities of nylon. Therefore, despite their differing top materials, both the Kailh Box Royal and Huano Caramel Latte will deliver similar outcomes in terms of sound depth and quality when the switches are fully pressed down.

Overall, while the Kailh Box Royal and the Huano Caramel Latte utilize different materials for their top housings, they converge on the familiar ground of nylon for their bottom housings. This similarity ensures that when users experience the bottom-out effect of either switch, they will appreciate a robust and subdued auditory response reminiscent of nylon’s characteristics. The combination of a softer nylon bottom and a contrasting POK or nylon top allows for an intriguing interplay of sound profiles, catering to different preferences while ensuring a satisfying typing experience across both options.

Weight

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a notable difference: the Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Caramel Latte's bottom out force is lighter at 55 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar typing experience for actuation, the Box Royal will require more effort to fully press down, offering a heavier feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Caramel Latte, with its lighter bottom out force, could be better suited for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it may reduce finger fatigue. Overall, those seeking a softer experience should opt for the Caramel Latte, while those who favor a sturdier feel might gravitate towards the Box Royal.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable key press experience in terms of how far the switches travel from top to bottom. As a result, typing and gaming performance should feel very much alike when using either switch, allowing for consistent results across different setups. Consequently, whether you choose the tactile feel of the Box Royal or the smoothness of the Caramel Latte, the travel distance remains the same, providing a balanced and familiar pressing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch produces a high-pitched, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed. This makes the Box Royal a great choice for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, especially if they aren't fond of the deeper, bassy tones found in some other switches. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch has a bright, clacky sound profile. While the specific details of its sound aren't extensively detailed, it implies a lively and engaging auditory experience that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches’ sound profiles can also be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so different setups might yield varied results.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a sharp tactile experience with an intense feedback intensity. The pronounced tactile bump is designed to be distinctly felt with every keypress, making it ideal for users who enjoy a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, while the feel of the Huano Caramel Latte isn't explicitly defined, the medium weight of 50g at bottom out points toward a smooth typing experience, suggesting a more serene and fluid keystroke, common for linear switches. This contrasting tactile presence means that users looking for a clearly defined tactile switch will lean more toward the Box Royal, while those who prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keypress might find the Caramel Latte more appealing.

Overall, the Kailh Box Royal and Huano Caramel Latte switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box Royal is perfect for those seeking aggressive tactility and a sharper auditory feedback, while the Caramel Latte offers a smoother and clackier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prioritizes pronounced tactile feedback or a seamless and fluid keystroke.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you crave a pronounced tactile feedback with each keystroke, the Box Royal is the ideal option for you. Its sharp, binary tactility and higher-pitched sound profile cater to those who appreciate an aggressive typing experience, particularly beneficial for typing and gaming where responsiveness matters. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with less resistance, the Caramel Latte is your go-to switch. With its medium-light feel and bright, clacky sound profile, these switches provide a delightful, effortless keystroke that’s perfect for those lengthy typing sessions or for creating a more serene workspace. Ultimately, consider what aspects—whether it’s tactile feedback, sound, or actuation force—are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard experience, and choose the switch that aligns with those needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

Learn more