Huano Caramel Latte vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for linear enthusiasts are the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. The Caramel Latte, known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, clacky sound profile, offers a smooth typing experience that makes every keystroke satisfying and enjoyable. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a heavier feel, with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. This switch not only delivers a medium-high pitch auditory profile but also features a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a great choice for gamers and aesthetics enthusiasts alike. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences; 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
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, the materials used in their top housings exhibit distinct characteristics that influence their overall sound and feel during use. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing—a polyketone material known for its remarkable smoothness and durability, boasting a low coefficient of friction at 0.04. This property results in a smooth typing experience along with a clacky sound profile, thanks to POK's strength and wear resistance, which is significantly higher than materials like POM. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which delivers a pronounced, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials aim for a satisfying auditory experience, their distinctive properties lead to nuanced variations in feedback; the Caramel Latte provides a smoother action while the G Pro leans towards sharper acoustic qualities.
The bottom housings of these two switches further contribute to their overall performance. The Caramel Latte uses nylon for its bottom housing, a traditional choice that excels in sound absorption and producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes POM material, known for generating a muted yet satisfying sound. This differentiation between nylon's softer and more absorptive nature compared to POM's harder characteristics results in varied auditory experiences. Even as both switches aim to deliver a clacky sound, the Caramel Latte leans towards a rounder auditory output, while the G Pro 3.0 Black's sound is deeper but distinctively crisp.
Ultimately, the interplay between the housing materials in both switches creates a unique duality of experiences. The top housing primarily influences the sound upon release, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out feel and sound. If the overall acoustic experience of both switches aligns—in terms of providing a satisfying clacky feel and sound—users can expect a certain level of performance consistency. If one seeks similarities, both switches offer thrilling and satisfying tactile feedback, though they do so through different material properties and compositions, perfectly suited to distinct preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires a heftier actuation force of 60 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel for a firmer typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out forces further emphasize this distinction: the Caramel Latte has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Black’s is 70 grams. This means that while both switches have their benefits, the Caramel Latte is better suited for those seeking a lighter touch, and the G Pro 3.0 Black caters to individuals who favor a more forceful keystroke, making them distinctly different options for users based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a more responsive feel, benefiting users who prioritize quick actuation, such as gamers who favor shorter travel distances for faster response times. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its longer travel distance, may be ideal for those who appreciate a deeper and more gradual keystroke, providing a richer tactile experience. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a snappier response, the Caramel Latte would be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Black would likely appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional typing feel. Overall, the Caramel Latte is the shorter option, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is the longer one.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 is characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp, crisp auditory feedback with every keystroke that many users find pleasurable. This lively sound adds an engaging aspect to typing, creating an exciting atmosphere for both casual use and gaming. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience, which is somewhat more subdued compared to the Caramel Latte. While the Pro 3.0 can produce a sharper sound reminiscent of a clacky switch, it also tends to have a more dampened auditory signature that can be easier on the ears, particularly in quieter environments. The overall sound experience, however, can be influenced significantly by the specific board and keycaps used, potentially aligning the two switches more closely in sound depending on these factors.
When discussing the feel of these switches, the Huano Caramel Latte provides a super smooth typing experience with a medium weight of 50g at bottom-out, creating a tactile yet effortless sensation while typing. Users often appreciate the consistent feedback and the overall satisfying feel as they glide over the keys. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a heftier actuation force of 60g and a 70g bottom-out, offering a medium-heavy typing experience that caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel. This switch is also noted for its creamy and silky sensations, enhancing the smoothness of each keystroke and providing a luxurious typing experience without excessive resistance. While the G Pro 3.0 Black may require a bit more force, many find the added weight reassuring and conducive to precision typing.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches excel in their distinct qualities. The Caramel Latte shines with its bright, clacky sound and smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy lively auditory feedback combined with satisfaction in the keystroke feel. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Black attracts users seeking a more subdued sound profile paired with a unique creamy and heavier tactile experience. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent experiences that can cater to different preferences, and the decision may come down to individual taste regarding sound and feel. Regardless of the choice, keyboard enthusiasts can achieve satisfying results with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch should largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile that keeps every keystroke engaging and enjoyable, the Caramel Latte is a fantastic option. Its medium-light 55g bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who want a less fatiguing experience, especially during long typing sessions or for gaming. Conversely, if you lean towards a more substantial feel while typing and appreciate the depth of a medium-heavy switch, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the better choice. With its 70g bottom-out force, it offers a satisfying weight that can enhance your typing feedback, making it particularly appealing for users who value tactile solidity in their keystrokes. The G Pro 3.0 Black's auditory experience is also more subdued compared to the Caramel Latte, which may be preferable in quieter environments. Ultimately, assess your usage scenarios—whether you prioritize a lighter, more exhilarating typing experience or a weightier, richer feel—and choose the switch that aligns best with your requirements.
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