Huano Caramel Latte vs. Akko Fairy
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko Fairy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and environments, the Huano Caramel Latte and Akko Fairy stand out as compelling options, both categorized as linear switches yet offering distinct characteristics. The Caramel Latte, known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, clacky sound profile, delivers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience that enhances every keystroke, making it perfect for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory feedback. In contrast, the Akko Fairy switches shine in office settings with their refined, factory-applied lubrication, providing a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. Their medium weight also strikes a harmonious balance, ensuring comfortable use over extended periods without causing fatigue. While the Caramel Latte may be more suited for gamers and enthusiasts seeking rich sound stimulation, the Akko Fairy caters to professionals who value a subtle, focused atmosphere. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko Fairy, a notable difference arises in the composition of their top housings. The Caramel Latte utilizes polyketone (POK) for its top housing, which is recognized for its superior durability and smoothness, boasting a coefficient of friction of 0.04. This makes it one of the smoothest options in switch design, allowing for a premium feel during typing. In contrast, the Akko Fairy employs nylon for its top housing, a classic material that is softer and designed to create a deeper, fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. This fundamental difference in materials indicates that while both switches aim for a pleasant auditory experience, they operate on different principles, with the POK providing a crisper sound compared to the warmer, rounder tones of the nylon housing.
However, both switches share the same bottom housing material: nylon. This commonality between the Caramel Latte and the Akko Fairy allows them to produce similar sound characteristics when bottoming out. As nylon is known for its sound-absorbing qualities, both switches deliver a subdued, smooth auditory experience at this phase of the keystroke. This shared nylon bottom housing means that, regardless of the top housing material, users can expect a consistent typing sound and tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys, highlighting how the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall acoustic and tactile profile of each switch.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials shape the distinct identities of each switch while the shared nylon bottom housing helps unify their sound experiences. The Caramel Latte's POK top offers a uniqueness characterized by smoothness and durability, contributing to a brighter acoustic response. In contrast, the Fairy's nylon top rounds out the sound, creating a deeper auditory sensation. Their differing top materials indicate that although they might feel and sound different during active use, both switches bring together their nylon bottom housings to deliver a satisfying typing experience, blending both material advantages into a cohesive result.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the Akko Fairy is heavier, requiring a 50-gram actuation force and a 60-gram bottom out force, categorizing it as medium. This difference in force means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for extended use may find the Caramel Latte more comfortable, while those who enjoy a firmer, more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Fairy. Overall, the varying forces suggest that users seeking a light touch will benefit from the Huano Caramel Latte, while those who favor a bit more resistance should opt for the Akko Fairy.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch, we find that the Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Fairy features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Caramel Latte the longer of the two switches by 0.3 mm. For users seeking a balance between responsiveness and depth, the Caramel Latte may provide a more substantial keystroke, potentially offering a more satisfying typing experience. Conversely, those who prefer quicker response times for gaming and rapid input might favor the shorter travel distance of the Fairy switch, which could lead to a more immediate tactile feedback. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness in their typing experience.
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 Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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
The sound profile of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch is characterized by its bright, clacky output, providing an engaging acoustic experience that stands out during typing. This type of sound can bring a lively ambiance to your work or play environment, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the Akko Fairy linear switch is designed to be much more subdued, featuring a muted and neutral sound profile that is ideal for quieter settings, such as offices. Its less pronounced auditory characteristics make it suitable for shared spaces, allowing for a focused atmosphere without the distraction of extensive noise.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte switch offers a super smooth typing experience, which can be particularly enjoyable as it facilitates effortless keystrokes, making each press feel satisfying. While the specific descriptions for the Caramel Latte's tactile feedback weren't provided, it is evident that it presents a pleasurable sensation during use. On the other hand, the Fairy switches provide a polished and mild typing experience, thanks to their factory-applied lubrication. This feature reduces friction, allowing for a smooth key travel while ensuring a gentle resistance that doesn’t tire the fingers out during prolonged typing sessions. The subtlety of the Fairy switch adds to its usability in professional environments where comfort and efficiency are key.
In summary, while the Huano Caramel Latte and Akko Fairy switches offer different auditory and tactile experiences, they each have their unique strengths that may cater to differing needs. The Caramel Latte's bright and engaging sound paired with its smooth feel might appeal to those who seek a more dynamic typing experience, particularly in less formal environments. Conversely, the Fairy switch provides a quiet, polished typing feel that is conducive to extended use in shared spaces, appealing to those who prioritize noise reduction and comfort. Choosing between them ultimately boils down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both switches deliver quality typing experiences suited to their specific auditory and tactile characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko Fairy linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and usage scenarios. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Caramel Latte might be your best bet. Its 55-gram bottom-out force offers a medium-light feel that can enhance comfort during extended typing sessions and is particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a bright, clacky sound profile. This makes it well-suited for casual typing or gaming environments where feedback and a lively sound signature are more desirable. On the other hand, if you are often in an office setting or a shared space, the Akko Fairy switches would serve you better. Their refined lubrication and medium weight of 60 grams strike a good balance for comfort and resistance, minimizing noise with a muted and neutral sound profile. Thus, if you’re looking for a switch that ensures long-term comfort and a polished, subtle typing experience without disturbing others around you, the Fairy would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on your typical environment and whether you prioritize sound, feel, or the endurance of your typing activities.
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