Huano Caramel Latte vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Durock Daybreak each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Caramel Latte stands out with its medium actuation force of 50g and a bright, clacky sound profile, providing a playful and lively typing experience that many gamers and typists find enjoyable. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a smoother keystroke coupled with an audible confirmation, making every press feel satisfying. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak offers a heftier actuation force of 67g, resulting in a more substantial typing experience that can be particularly appealing for users who prefer greater resistance as they type. Its low-pitched, quiet operation makes it an excellent choice for office environments or any scenario where noise control is crucial. While both switches excel in different aspects—one in sound and smoothness and the other in weight and silence—each caters to distinct user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Durock Daybreak, notable differences emerge in their top housing materials. The Caramel Latte utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which creates a smooth and clacky typing experience due to its low coefficient of friction and exceptional strength. In contrast, the Daybreak employs polycarbonate, a material known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant auditory experience, particularly appealing for users who favor clarity, especially when RGB lighting is a consideration. Despite these differences, both top housing materials are designed to offer distinct auditory outcomes, illustrating how the choice of materials can impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Caramel Latte and the Daybreak feature nylon, which is a common choice in switch housings. This shared material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience as nylon absorbs sound better than harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound feedback from both switches when pressed down, since the inherent properties of nylon contribute to a duller and rounder auditory response. This consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing reinforces the traditional appeal of these switches, offering a familiar and comforting typing feel regardless of the variance in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, while the top housings of the two switches differ significantly in material and resulting sound profile, their use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a cohesive auditory experience. The interaction between the POK and polycarbonate in the top and nylon in the bottom creates a unique blend of auditory experiences when typing. Users will benefit from a well-rounded sound, allowing for both the smoother characteristics of the Caramel Latte and the crisper audio profile of the Daybreak, thereby satisfying a range of preferences for tactile and auditory feedback in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which can provide a more comfortable typing experience over prolonged periods. In contrast, the Daybreak does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. As a result, the Daybreak offers a firmer typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the Caramel Latte is the lighter option, suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, the heavier bottom out force of the Daybreak may provide a more substantial feel for users seeking tactile feedback. Overall, the key distinction lies in the Caramel Latte's known actuation and bottom out forces versus the unknown actuation force of the Daybreak, suggesting that users prioritizing a lighter touch should lean towards the Caramel Latte, while those favoring a heavier feel may find the Daybreak more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, we find a difference in their measurements. The Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Daybreak extends slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for users who prioritize quick key presses, such as gamers. In contrast, the Daybreak's longer travel distance might appeal to those who enjoy a deeper feel and a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference—opting for the Caramel Latte for speed or the Daybreak for a more substantial tactile feedback.
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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 switch delivers a bright and clacky acoustic profile, characterized by a high-pitched and percussive punch with every keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer an engaging audio feedback while typing, as its sharp resonance can help enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switch features a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound that is much quieter, making it ideal for environments where noise control is crucial. This significant difference in sound profiles means that users will find themselves captivated by the lively auditory feedback from the Caramel Latte, while the Daybreak's subdued tone offers a more discreet and professional typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte is celebrated for its silky smoothness, allowing for a nearly frictionless typing experience. Every keystroke feels effortless, enhancing overall typing speed and comfort. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch is noted for its polished finish, providing a refined and sleek typing sensation. Although both switches offer a smooth experience, the Caramel Latte leans towards an exceptionally fluid operation, while the Daybreak emphasizes a plush, well-crafted feel, offering a heavier actuation force that some users may prefer for a more robust typing experience.
In summary, the Huano Caramel Latte and Durock Daybreak linear switches cater to distinct preferences in both sound and feel. The Caramel Latte stands out for its bright, clacky sound and silky smoothness, making it appealing to those seeking a lively and stimulating typing experience. Conversely, the Daybreak’s low-pitched, quiet operation coupled with its polished feel provides a more subdued yet sophisticated typing solution. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you crave the auditory pop of the Caramel Latte or the weighty quietness of the Daybreak, as both switches promise enjoyable and satisfying keypresses in their respective niches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Caramel Latte and the Durock Daybreak linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using them. If you favor a light, smooth, and engaging typing experience paired with a bright and clacky sound, the Caramel Latte is an excellent choice. The 55g actuation force makes it particularly suitable for those who enjoy effortless keystrokes and find joy in a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier keystroke, appreciate a quiet typing environment, or often work in shared spaces, the Durock Daybreak may be your ideal switch. Its 67g force provides a more substantial feel while delivering a polished and smooth experience, with a low-pitched sound profile that keeps noise to a minimum. Ultimately, your decision should align with your comfort and typing style—light and lively with the Caramel Latte or solid and subdued with the Daybreak.
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