TTC Brother vs. Huano Caramel Latte
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Huano Caramel Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Brother and Huano Caramel Latte present two distinctive options that cater to different typing preferences. The TTC Brother, renowned for its clicky tactile feedback, features a breezy actuation force of just 37 grams, allowing for easy, effortless key presses that culminate in a satisfying crunchy sound with each stroke. This switch appeals greatly to those who relish an audible and tactile experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte is characterized by its linear smoothness and medium weight of 50 grams at bottom out, providing a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances the typing experience without the distraction of clicks. For users who prefer a quieter and more fluid action, the Caramel Latte serves as an excellent choice. Both switches have their merits: the Brother for the tactile delight and auditory feedback it delivers, and the Caramel Latte for its smooth and effortless keystroke experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Huano Caramel Latte, a significant distinction can be drawn between their top housings. The TTC Brother utilizes polycarbonate (PC) for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This transparency not only enhances the acoustical performance but also makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting setups, giving it a visual appeal. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing which, while also contributing to smooth performance, is primarily recognized for its exceptional wear and shock resistance rather than its acoustic properties. As a result, while both materials contribute positively to the overall performance of the switches, the Brother's polycarbonate delivers a brighter sound, while the Caramel Latte’s POK leans towards durability and smoothness.
When it comes to their bottom housings, both the TTC Brother and the Huano Caramel Latte utilize nylon, which is a proven choice in switch manufacturing. Nylon is characterized by its softer composition, leading to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller as it absorbs more sound compared to harder materials. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing creates a consistent auditory experience across both switches. Regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom of both switches ensures that users experience a rounder, more pleasant typing sound, emphasizing the effectiveness of nylon as a reliable material in producing satisfying auditory feedback.
In summation, the contrasting top housing materials of polycarbonate for the TTC Brother and POK for the Huano Caramel Latte lead to differing acoustic properties; however, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing harmonizes the overall acoustic signature of both switches. This design allows for a unique blend of sound profiles, where users can expect a crisp and vibrant sound from the Brother's polycarbonate top when bottoming out, complemented by the deeper notes fostered by the nylon base. Conversely, the Caramel Latte offers a smooth typing experience enhanced by its POK material, while still benefiting from the rich sound profile generated by the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches deliver satisfying outcomes, which stem from their distinctive engineering and material choices.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch, several key differences emerge in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Brother switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which can provide a more comfortable typing experience, especially during extended use, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize lighter switches. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for enhanced tactile feedback. While the exact bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, it does not have a specified bottom out weight, suggesting that it may feel softer at the end of key travel compared to the definitive bottoming out of the Caramel Latte. In summary, the TTC Brother switch is the lighter option, while the Huano Caramel Latte offers a heavier touch, appealing to users seeking a firmer response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch, the TTC Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Caramel Latte measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm indicates that the Caramel Latte offers a slightly deeper keypress, which may appeal to those who favor a more tactile experience while typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Brother switch can provide a quicker response time, making it a suitable choice for users seeking responsiveness. Ultimately, those prioritizing rapid actuation may prefer the Brother, whereas individuals who value a more pronounced feel may opt for the Caramel Latte due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is celebrated for its crispy and crunchy auditory feedback, reminiscent of stepping on a pile of autumn leaves. This clicky profile provides a satisfying sound that resonates with fans of tactile switches, enhancing the overall typing experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch is known for its bright, clacky sound, which offers a different auditory experience that tends to be less pronounced than clicky switches. While both switches deliver distinct sounds, the Brother’s crunchiness emphasizes a more engaging experience for click enthusiasts, while the Caramel Latte’s clackiness provides a smoother auditory presence.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch is characterized as easy-to-press, requiring a mere 37g of force for actuation, which contributes to a comfortable typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. Its stepped tactile feedback, with a noticeable bump during the keystroke, allows for clear indication of actuation without overwhelming the user. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch is known for its smoothness with a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, providing an effortless typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a more fluid keypress without tactile feedback. This means while the Brother offers a distinct tactile sensation with a bit more resistance, the Caramel Latte provides a more consistent and uninterrupted keystroke feel.
In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch and Huano Caramel Latte linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Brother’s crunchy sound and easy-to-press, stepped tactile feedback make it a go-to for clicky switch enthusiasts, while the Caramel Latte offers a brighter, clacky sound and a smooth, consistent typing experience. Both switches excel in their respective categories; choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for tactile response and audio characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of feedback you're seeking from your mechanical keyboard. If you relish the tactile and audible feedback characteristic of clicky switches, and you prefer a lightweight actuation that minimizes finger fatigue during those lengthy typing sessions, then the Brother is an excellent option for you. Its satisfying crunch with every keypress adds an enjoyable layer to your typing experience, making it ideal for both casual users and enthusiasts who appreciate a little auditory flair. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, quieter typing experience that still provides enough resistance to feel grounded, the Caramel Latte's medium-light actuation is appealing. This switch is perfect for those who type frequently or require a more subdued overall sound profile, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your desire for either expressiveness and sound or smoothness and subtlety, guiding you to the switch that enhances your keyboard experience in the way you prefer.
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