Huano Caramel Latte vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Gold Brown offer distinctly different yet appealing experiences to typists and gamers alike. The Caramel Latte, classified as a linear switch, features a medium weight of 50g at bottom out and is known for its bright, clacky sound profile, providing a super smooth typing experience that enhances the pleasure of every keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown exemplifies a tactile switch with a slight, satisfying bump that delivers a balanced feel. Its moderate weightiness and rounded, softer sound profile make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate feedback without the distractions of excess noise. While the Caramel Latte's smoothness is ideal for rapid typing and gaming, the Gold Brown caters to users who prefer a more tactile response to their presses. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Gold Brown switches both utilize a nylon bottom housing, which is a well-regarded choice in the mechanical keyboard community. The nylon material is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, making for a more pleasant typing experience for many users. As both switches share this bottom housing, they are likely to exhibit similar acoustic properties when bottoming out, providing a rounder, softer sound due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. This shared characteristic ensures that users who appreciate the auditory feedback from nylon housing will find both switches appealing despite differences in their top housing materials.
In contrast, the materials used for the top housings diverge significantly, leading to distinct sound profiles for each switch. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, contributing to a more clacky sound. In contrast, the Gold Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer nature. This difference in top housing materials not only influences the overall auditory experience but also affects the tactility of the switches. The smoothness of POK results in a unique typing experience that contrasts with the resonant, clear feedback provided by polycarbonate. Users will notice these differences when they release the keys, as the sound quality is predominantly influenced by the top housing.
Overall, while the bottom housings for both switches are the same and provide a consistent foundation in sound profile, the variability in top housing materials introduces an additional layer of personalization. This means that users looking for a well-rounded typing experience with a deeper sound can appreciate both options due to their shared bottom housing. For those who favor distinct auditory feedback in their typing experience, they may find their preferences leaning toward one switch over the other based on the top housing material. Ultimately, both switches demonstrate how different materials can yield unique characteristics, making them suitable for a range of user preferences while maintaining some core auditory and tactile similarities due to the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch to the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, making it suitable for long typing sessions without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Gold Brown switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, placing it in the medium category and offering a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. This means that users looking for a lighter typing experience should gravitate towards the Caramel Latte, which allows for easier keystrokes, while those who desire a heavier and more pronounced typing experience might find the Gold Brown more appealing. Overall, both switches present distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and hand strengths.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, we find a notable difference: the Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Brown measures at 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Latte the shorter option, appealing to gamers and those who favor quicker response times due to its reduced distance. Conversely, the Gold Brown’s longer travel distance of 4 mm may cater to users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feel, providing a deeper tactile experience. Ultimately, if you want a more responsive typing experience, the Caramel Latte might be your best bet, whereas if you prefer a traditional feel with more depth, the Gold Brown would be the superior choice.
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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 and clacky quality that provides a lively and expressive typing experience. This makes it a standout in environments where audio feedback is a key element of the typing satisfaction. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown switches offer a more rounded and softer sound profile, which is described as neutral. The softer sound makes the Gold Browns suitable for various environments, from home to office, ensuring that they remain discreet without compromising on feedback. While both switches provide auditory feedback, the Caramel Latte is more pronounced and lively, whereas the Gold Brown offers a more subdued experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte switch prides itself on delivering a super smooth typing experience, making each keystroke enjoyable. This is perfect for users who favor a seamless typing sensation. In comparison, the TTC Gold Brown switches feature a mild tactile bump that gives just the right amount of feedback without being overly tactile. They embody a buttery smoothness that enhances the typing experience by ensuring effortless actuation. Gold Brown switches also incorporate a polished finish, which signifies a refined feel with reduced friction, resulting in a comfortable typing session. The Caramel Latte focuses on smoothness while the Gold Brown strikes a balance between tactility and a smooth typing experience, catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, both switches offer distinct yet appealing qualities that cater to different user needs. The Huano Caramel Latte excels in providing an engaging auditory and smooth typing experience, perfect for users who enjoy lively feedback. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Brown switches offer a more subdued sound with a mild tactile feel, making them versatile for various typing environments. While the Caramel Latte may be better suited for those who appreciate a pronounced audio experience, the Gold Brown caters to those who prefer a balanced, subtle tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize vibrant sounds and smoothness or a balanced and polished experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter, smooth typing experience that provides a bright, clacky sound, the Caramel Latte is an excellent choice, especially for gaming or scenarios where speed and seamless keystrokes matter. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams makes it particularly appealing for users who type for extended periods or those who enjoy a less forceful actuation. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more balanced typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump, the TTC Gold Brown is likely to be more suited to your needs. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 63 grams, it offers a rounded sound profile that is versatile enough for both gaming and typing tasks, making it a great option for both work and play. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a buttery-smooth linear feel or a mild tactile response, ensuring that whichever switch you choose enhances your overall typing experience.
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