Huano Caramel Latte vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow showcases the diverse spectrum of linear switches available for enthusiasts. The Caramel Latte impresses with its medium weight of 50g at bottom out and a bright, clacky sound that delivers a smooth typing experience, making every keystroke enjoyable. This switch appeals to those seeking a satisfying auditory feedback along with a fluid feel while typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. Known for its higher-pitched clacky sound and bouncy tactile experience, it embodies a polished and resonant typing sensation that many gamers and typists appreciate. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether it's the vibrant sound profile and smoothness of the Caramel Latte or the affordability and exhilarating bounce of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, there’s something for everyone. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
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
4.00 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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, notable differences arise primarily from the materials used in their top housings. The Caramel Latte utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which offers a low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability, significantly surpassing other common materials like POM and Nylon in terms of shock resistance. This results in switches that deliver a smooth and clacky performance, making them an attractive option for users who prioritize longevity and tactile enjoyment. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is crafted with polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness and clarity. This leads to a high-pitched, crisp sound profile that is particularly enhanced when RGB lighting is present due to the translucence of the material. Thus, while both switches aim for a responsive experience, they diverge in acoustic output and tactile feel due to their differing top housing materials.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which presents an interesting parallel. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound, contributing to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic enhances the auditory experience during gameplay or typing, leading to a softer and more rounded tone, regardless of the top housing variation. Since both the Caramel Latte and G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilize nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect a similar auditory richness that enriches the overall switch experience. Consequently, while the top housings provide different acoustic and tactile attributes, the shared nylon bottom leads to a complementary sound environment across both switch options.
The interplay between the differing top materials and the shared nylon bottom housing underscores the significance of housing design in achieving the desired typing experience. For both the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the unique qualities of each top housing manifest prominently in sound and feel while the nylon bottom ensures a consistent foundation of a deeper sound profile. Users seeking to explore variations in their typing experience may find that even with differing top housings, the consistent presence of nylon helps stabilize the acoustic signature of both switches, paving the way for enjoyable and consistent results across different use cases.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This increased resistance may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel when typing. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Caramel Latte would be the better choice, while those favoring a firmer push might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. The differing forces ultimately contribute to distinct typing experiences that cater to various user preferences.
Travel distance
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Caramel Latte measuring 3.6 mm and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow at 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Latte the shorter option and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow the longer one. The shorter travel distance of the Caramel Latte may appeal to gamers seeking quick response times and rapid key actuations, while the additional depth of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow might provide a more substantial feel that some users prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, choosing between these two switches will depend largely on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 switch is characterized by a bright, clacky quality, making the auditory feedback lively and engaging during typing. This sound can create a satisfying typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic response from each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches produce a higher-pitched and resonant sound that is sharp and crisp. This sound profile tends to cut through ambient noise, offering an immersive auditory experience that some users find especially appealing. While both switches showcase a clacky sound, the Caramel Latte leans slightly towards a richer tonal quality, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow emphasizes clarity and brightness.
In terms of feel, the Huano Caramel Latte switches provide a smooth typing experience with a medium actuation weight of 50g, making each keystroke a delight. This balanced weight contributes to a responsive typing sensation suitable for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are known for their polished and creamy feel, providing a sleek and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to either advanced materials or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and a gliding sensation. While both offer a smooth typing experience, the Caramel Latte focuses on a balanced response, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow adds an extra layer of luxurious slickness.
Ultimately, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches cater to users who enjoy smooth typing experiences with satisfying auditory feedback. While the Caramel Latte delivers a bright, clacky sound with a medium actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a sharper, more resonant sound with a notable polished and creamy feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and touch, either switch can produce fulfilling results, making them excellent options for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard realm.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding both feel and sound. If you prefer a lighter actuation force that provides a delightfully smooth and enjoyable typing experience, the Caramel Latte – with its medium-light 55g bottom out force and a clacky sound profile – is an excellent choice. It's great for extended typing sessions where comfort and tactile feedback matter most, making it a fantastic fit for writers or casual gamers. On the other hand, if you appreciate a heavier weight in your keystrokes and prefer a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback, you might gravitate toward the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. This switch, characterized by its polished and creamy feel, ensures a quick response with a satisfying bounce, making it ideal for competitive gaming or fast-paced typing, where every millisecond counts. Ultimately, assess your typing habits and sound preferences to choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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