Huano Caramel Latte vs. Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, each catering to different typing preferences. The Caramel Latte, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g bottom-out force and bright, clacky sound profile, providing users with a smooth and enjoyable typing experience that enhances every keystroke. In contrast, the Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch, featuring a pronounced tactile bump that users find invigorating, coupled with a loud bass-heavy sound signature that adds a dynamic presence to every keypress. While the Caramel Latte is ideal for those who favor a fluid and quieter typing style, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro appeals to individuals seeking feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, we see distinct differences that significantly impact their overall performance. The Huano Caramel Latte features a POK material for its top housing, known for its exceptionally smooth feel and strong durability. With a coefficient of friction at 0.04, this material provides a seamless keystroke experience compared to the V3's polycarbonate top, which has a stiffer structure leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The durability of POK surpasses that of traditional plastics like POM and Nylon, making the Caramel Latte particularly resilient and durable, whereas polycarbonate typically enhances brightness and resonance, contributing to a different auditory experience.
On the other hand, both the bottom housings for the Caramel Latte and the V3 Creamy Purple Pro share a common material—nylon—which yields a notably deeper and rounder sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing means that both switches will provide a fuller auditory experience when bottoming out. The nylon's inherent softness allows it to absorb sound waves effectively, contributing to a pleasant typing experience across both switches. Therefore, while the top housings of these switches differ markedly in texture and sound production, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users will enjoy a similar sound depth during tactile engagement, reinforcing the familiar switch characteristics appreciated by typists and gamers alike.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials between the Huano Caramel Latte’s POK and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro’s polycarbonate highlight how various compositions can sculpt a switch's unique auditory and tactile qualities. The combination of the smooth, durable POK material on the Caramel Latte’s top and the sharper polycarbonate on the V3 creates distinct experiences, particularly during the release phase when the character of sound is heavily dictated by the top housing. Conversely, the identical nylon bottom housings ensure that both switches resonate with a satisfying depth during key presses, merging their individual strengths into a balanced typing experience. Hence, while the contrasting top materials yield different auditory profiles, the common bottom housing lays a foundation for comparability in response and sound, making both switches worthwhile choices for users who prioritize both durability and sound.
Weight
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch present contrasting actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Latte features a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as a medium-light switch. In comparison, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch overall. This means that users who favor a gentler touch will likely find the Akko V3 more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a bit more resistance and a substantial feel may lean towards the Huano Caramel Latte. Overall, the differences in actuation forces highlight the distinct typing experiences they offer, with the Caramel Latte being the heavier option and the V3 Creamy Purple Pro being the lighter choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This indicates that the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers who favor quicker actuation for faster response times. Conversely, the Caramel Latte, being the longer option, provides a deeper key press that may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will hinge on your personal preference for either responsiveness or a hearty depth in key travel.
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 Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 Huano Caramel Latte linear switch produces a bright, clacky sound profile that many find satisfying and lively during typing. This can create an engaging auditory experience, making every keystroke feel pronounced and crisp. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a loud sound signature with a bassier pitch, contributing to a deeper and more resonant auditory feedback. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Caramel Latte leans towards a higher frequency sound, while the Creamy Purple Pro provides a richer, fuller low-end sound.
When it comes to the feel, the Huano Caramel Latte switches are characterized by a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, translating to a smooth and effortless typing experience. This smoothness helps facilitate fast typing without any tactile hindrance. Conversely, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches present a more pronounced tactile bump, offering a clear and invigorating tactile feedback with each keystroke. This tactile sensation not only provides a satisfying response during typing but also aids in finger placement, making it easier to type accurately.
In conclusion, the Huano Caramel Latte and Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. If you enjoy a brighter, clackier sound and a silky smooth typing experience, the Caramel Latte is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, if you prefer a deeper sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Creamy Purple Pro will serve you well. Both switches can be enjoyable in their own right, but your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize an engaging auditory experience or a tactile sensation while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch should ultimately depend on your specific preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a smooth, linear feel with a slightly brighter, clacky sound, the Caramel Latte is a great option, especially if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams that offers a balanced yet engaging typing experience. This makes it well-suited for both gaming and general typing, where you may appreciate the quick actuation without the distraction of a tactile bump. On the other hand, if you favor a distinctly tactile feedback combined with a unique bass-heavy auditory experience, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro should be your switch of choice. With a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and its pronounced tactile bump, this switch excels in providing a satisfying typing rhythm that enhances the feedback of each keystroke, making it perfect for those who prioritize a more pronounced typing sensation. In essence, your decision should reflect whether you seek a fluid, unencumbered typing experience or a tactile engagement that resonates with each strike.
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