Huano Caramel Latte vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT F2 present two appealing options for linear switch enthusiasts, each with its own unique characteristics. The Huano Caramel Latte, famously known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, clacky sound profile, offers users a super smooth typing experience that enhances the joy of every keystroke. In contrast, the KTT F2 distinguishes itself with a distinct hollow sound signature and a medium-light weight, creating a typing experience that's comfortable and forgiving. The F2's lightly textured feel adds a subtle tactile nuance to every word and command, providing a gentle sensory feedback that many typists find pleasurable. While both switches excel in delivering smooth operation, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, making them well-suited for varying typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Caramel Latte and KTT F2 switches provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences for users, reflecting the unique properties of their respective compositions. The Caramel Latte features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), which offers a smooth operation with a coefficient of friction at 0.04, slightly higher than that of nylon. This material is notably durable, boasting excellent wear resistance, which significantly contributes to a well-rounded, clacky sound profile when typing. In contrast, the F2 utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, yielding a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This material enhances clarity and resonance, making the F2 particularly appealing for users interested in RGB lighting effects, thanks to its translucent properties.
Turning to the bottom housing, the Caramel Latte opts for nylon, known for its ability to provide a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic characteristics. This material absorbs more sound and offers a differencing tactile response compared to its harder plastic counterparts. Meanwhile, the F2 adopts polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, mirroring its top housing to create a similarly sharp and resonant sound experience. This unity in material across both the top and bottom housing contributes to a consistent auditory feedback, while also enhancing aesthetics through translucency.
When analyzing the impact of the different materials employed in these switches, one recognizes that the distinct characteristics each housing material brings contributes to the overall sound and feel of typing. With the Caramel Latte’s combination of POK and nylon, users experience a more rounded sound with deep, bell-like tones, while the F2's dual polycarbonate construction emphasizes crispness and resonance. However, if the top and bottom housings of a switch were made from the same materials, users would likely experience a cohesive auditory profile regardless of whether they utilized the Caramel Latte or the F2. Ultimately, the unique combination of materials can either harmonize to create a unified sound profile or contrast to deliver a more complex auditory experience based on their individual properties.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch to the KTT F2 linear switch, we notice some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the F2 features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the KTT F2 switch is lighter overall, which may appeal to users who prefer a switch that facilitates longer typing sessions without much strain. In contrast, the Caramel Latte, being marginally heavier, may provide a bit more resistance for those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel. Both switches fall within the medium-light range, making them more approachable for users who might not enjoy extremely heavy switches. For users looking for a switch experience with a balance of comfort and responsiveness, both switches will deliver relatively similar results during use, albeit with the KTT F2 allowing for a slightly easier keystroke due to its lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, we find that the Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the F2 features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Caramel Latte the longer option for those who prefer a more substantial key press, which can offer a satisfying tactile experience for users who enjoy a deeper feel. In contrast, the KTT F2, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers and typists seeking quicker response times, as the reduced travel can allow for faster activation. Ultimately, both switches present options for different preferences, with the Caramel Latte providing a more pronounced depth sensation, while the F2 aligns with the trend for shorter movements to enhance efficiency and speed.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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
The sound profile of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch is characterized by its bright and clacky tones, which produce a lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. This makes it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound when typing. In contrast, the KTT F2 switches offer a more subdued auditory experience with a distinct hollow sound signature. This trait makes the F2s suitable for various environments, as their neutral and mild sound profile is less likely to disrupt others in shared spaces. The contrast between the lively clack of the Caramel Latte and the dampened tones of the F2 provides an interesting choice according to the user's sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte boasts a smooth typing experience with a medium weight of 50g at the bottom out, making it comfortable for extended use. This smooth action allows for a fluid typing experience, although specific texture attributes have not been noted. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switches provide a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weight, contributing to a feathery touch that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The mild and subtle resistance compared to the pronounced feel of the Caramel Latte offers a different typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a more gentle touch.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT F2 linear switches have their distinct sound and feel characteristics, catering to varied preferences among users. If you lean towards a brighter and livelier sound with a smooth feel, the Caramel Latte will serve you well. Conversely, if you prefer a more subdued auditory experience combined with a feathery, gentle typing touch, the KTT F2 switches would be the better choice. Ultimately, either choice ensures a pleasant typing experience, though the nuances of sound and feel highlight the importance of personal preference in selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT F2 linear switches, your choice should hinge on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and usage context. If you enjoy a smoother typing experience paired with a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances each keystroke's pleasure, the Caramel Latte is an excellent choice. It's particularly suitable for those who prioritize a bit of auditory feedback while typing or gaming, and its medium-light actuation force makes it a comfortable option for extended use. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more understated auditory experience, the KTT F2 switches provide a distinct hollow sound signature and a feathery touch that's exceptionally gentle on the fingers. Their more subdued sound and mildly textured feel make them ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check, such as shared workspaces or libraries. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you crave an engaging acoustic experience with the Caramel Latte or prefer the subtlety and comfort of the KTT F2.
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