Huano Caramel Latte vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, each offering unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience. The Huano Caramel Latte switch stands out with its medium actuation force of 50g, delivering a delightfully bright and clacky sound profile that many users appreciate for its charm and satisfaction with each keystroke. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Black V2 has garnered a loyal following due to its smooth downstroke and rich, low-pitched tones, which create a more subdued auditory experience that many typists find preferable for longer sessions or quieter environments. While the Caramel Latte excels in providing a lively and engaging soundscape, the Ink Black V2 caters to those who favor a refined, polished feel without overwhelming acoustics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches, there are both notable similarities and distinct differences that impact their overall performance and sound profile. The Caramel Latte utilizes POK for its top housing, a material notable for its smoothness and durability, boasting a low coefficient of friction at 0.04. This means that the switch operates very smoothly, providing a refined tactile experience. Conversely, the Ink Black V2 employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which also contributes to a satisfying, clacky sound profile. Despite this contrast in materials, both types of switches achieve a clacky sound, highlighting how different materials can produce similar auditory experiences depending on their design and intended use.

Examining the bottom housings reveals a clear divergence in materials, as the Caramel Latte switches utilize traditional nylon, while the Ink Black V2 also incorporates the INK blend, albeit in a different application. Nylon is revered for its sound-absorbing qualities, giving the Caramel Latte a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the INK blend in the Ink Black V2 is designed to produce a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which, while still being described as clacky, contrasts with the warmth that nylon provides. Thus, the bottom housing of each switch significantly influences the feeling and sound produced when a key is pressed, with the Caramel Latte leaning towards a more subdued, rounded output while the Ink Black V2 captures attention with its sharper sound profile.

In essence, the combination of housing materials in each switch plays a vital role in defining their characteristics, from sound and feel to overall durability. While the top housings differ, with POK delivering a smooth experience and the INK blend portraying a high-pitched clack, the bottom housings further diversify this sound spectrum. The nylon in the Caramel Latte softens the auditory output, while the INK blend sharpens it in the Gateron switch. Thus, the tactile experience and sound resilience each switch offers stem from the interplay of materials, ultimately leading to unique user experiences, even as they may yield similar clackiness in their respective sounds.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Caramel Latte has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and culminates in a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Consequently, for those who prioritize a lighter switch for extended use, the Caramel Latte is the better choice, whereas the Ink Black V2 is ideal for those who appreciate a firmer typing experience. Thus, the differences in force characteristics highlight the preferences users may have based on their specific typing or gaming needs.

Travel distance

The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a slightly shorter response, making it potentially more appealing for gamers seeking quick actuation. In contrast, the Ink Black V2's greater travel distance may provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper engagement while typing. Consequently, if you're favoring a more responsive experience due to the shorter distance, the Caramel Latte would be the better choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback and depth, the Ink Black V2 would be preferable. Thus, the Caramel Latte is the shorter option, while the Ink Black V2 is the longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Caramel Latte switch delivers a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances the auditory experience while typing. This upbeat tone contributes to the overall enjoyment of the keystrokes, making each press feel lively and engaging. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 showcases a low-pitched, bassy sound with a richer acoustic signature. This deep, warm tone is complemented by a chirpy undertone that adds a unique character to the auditory feedback. The different sound profiles reflect distinct preferences: the Caramel Latte is ideal for those who favor a more exuberant sound, while the Ink Black V2 caters to users who prefer weightier, more subdued acoustics.

In terms of feel, the Huano Caramel Latte offers a super smooth typing experience, providing delightful feedback with each keystroke. It features a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, allowing for a balanced typing experience that isn’t overly heavy or too light. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as mild, presenting a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. It is highly polished, with a refined finish that reduces friction and maximizes smooth key travel. This care in design results in a highly pleasant and effortless typing sensation, making it a great choice for long typing sessions.

Overall, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Caramel Latte is characterized by its vibrant, clacky sound and smooth feel, the Ink Black V2 brings a deeper, rich auditory experience accompanied by a polished touch. Despite their differences, both switches achieve smoothness in typing, ensuring that users will experience satisfying keystrokes regardless of their choice. Ultimately, your preference might hinge on whether you lean towards an energetic sound profile or a deeper, more refined one.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch ultimately comes down to your preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you gravitate towards a lighter touch and a more vibrant, clacky auditory experience, the Caramel Latte is likely the right switch for you. With its medium-light bottoming force of 55 grams, this switch not only facilitates a smooth and gratifying typing sensation but also delivers a bright sound that can make your keystrokes feel dynamic and engaging. Alternatively, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a heavier actuation force of 70 grams and a rich, low-pitched sound profile, the Ink Black V2 would be your ideal choice. This switch is noted for its polished feel, offering a mild typing experience that feels substantial and satisfying, complemented by a deep, bassy tone that resonates with each key press. Ultimately, your decision should consider how you value force, sound, and overall typing feel—whereas the Caramel Latte excels in gentleness and brightness, the Ink Black V2 shines in depth and refinement.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more