Huano Caramel Latte vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Iron stand out as two appealing linear options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Caramel Latte is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g at bottom out and a bright, clacky sound profile that brings a touch of auditory delight to every keystroke. Its smooth operation allows for a joyfully satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Iron also boasts a clacky sound signature but distinguishes itself with a remarkably light actuation that caters to users who favor quick and fatigue-free typing sessions. With its buttery smooth travel, the Iron delivers precision and pleasure, making it a remarkable option for both everyday users and enthusiasts alike. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Iron, significant distinctions arise primarily in their top housings. The Caramel Latte utilizes a POK material, which is highly regarded for its durability and smoothness, boasting a coefficient of friction of 0.04. This makes for notably smooth actuations, as well as an impressive toughness level—14 times stronger than POM—and superior shock resistance when compared to both Nylon and POM. In contrast, the TTC Iron employs POM for its top housing. Though POM is known to yield a pleasing and muted sound profile, it doesn’t quite match the durability and frictional performance of POK. This difference may lead users to experience a smoother action with Caramel Latte switches, while the TTC Iron might provide a wetter, more subdued auditory response.
Looking at the bottom housings, both the Huano Caramel Latte and TTC Iron utilize different materials that further characterize their overall sound profiles. The Caramel Latte features a nylon bottom housing, which is considered a classic due to its sound-absorbing properties. This results in a deeper and rounder sound profile, enhancing the tactile experience during typing. On the other hand, the TTC Iron employs a POM bottom housing, which is equally appreciated for its sound characteristics, offering a unique muted depth that aligns with the POM top's signature. Despite the differences in materials, both combinations strive for a pleasing auditory quality; however, the Caramel Latte may provide a fuller sound owing to the inherent properties of nylon.
While the two switches utilize contrasting materials for their top and bottom housings, their final acoustic and tactile outcomes may exhibit some similarities. The unique attributes of each switch housing interact synergistically; for instance, while the Caramel Latte’s POK top emphasizes smoothness, the nylon bottom can deliver a rounded sound, whereas the TTC Iron’s POM top and bottom work together to create a coherent muted sound profile. Therefore, although the switches are built with different materials in their respective top and bottom housings, users can expect similar satisfaction in acoustic qualities, especially if they are attuned to the specifics of sound manipulation derived from the housing materials. Ultimately, while the materials differ in durability and friction, they produce switches that can be equally enjoyable based on user preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, we observe distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Iron switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This means that the TTC Iron is the lighter option overall, making it easier to press down and suited for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Caramel Latte, being slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while both switches offer unique benefits, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Iron make it a better choice for those seeking less strain during extended use, while the Huano Caramel Latte provides a firmer feel for those who favor a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Caramel Latte features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Iron has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Iron switch offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Caramel Latte may provide a snappier response, making it an optimal choice for gamers who value quick keystrokes and rapid response times. Ultimately, those who prefer a deeper, more traditional typing experience might lean towards the Iron, while those who favor speed and responsiveness might opt for the Caramel Latte.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Caramel Latte switches present a bright, clacky sound profile that provides an engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. This lively sound can enhance the joy of typing, making it a delightful choice for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switches also offer a clacky sound signature that is sharp and snappy, contributing to a crisp and percussive typing experience. While both switches feature a clack, the Caramel Latte's sound may lean towards a more vibrant tone, whereas the Iron may possess a more neutral sound suited for various environments. It's important to note that the overall sound experience can vary depending on the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Latte's characteristics are often noted for their smoothness, creating a pleasurable typing experience that many users find satisfying. The TTC Iron switches, in contrast, emphasize an easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for actuation and resulting in a more effortless typing session. This light actuation force leads to reduced finger fatigue, making it comfortable for prolonged use. While the Caramel Latte offers a smooth yet unspecified feel, the Iron captures a mild typing experience that’s accessible to a wide range of users. The gentle resistance integrates with a responsive mechanism that allows for soft, controlled keystrokes across the board.
Considering these factors, both Huano Caramel Latte and TTC Iron linear switches present unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Latte delivers a delightful auditory experience coupled with smooth operation, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging typing atmosphere. Meanwhile, the TTC Iron focuses on ease of use and comfort with a clacky sound that adds to its charm without overwhelming the user. While both switches resonate with some clacky auditory satisfaction, the selection ultimately comes down to personal preference in feel and sound, ensuring that either choice can yield a rewarding mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing requirements. If you desire a medium-light switch that provides a rich and smooth typing experience with a bright, clacky sound profile, the Caramel Latte could be the perfect match for you. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback without compromising on comfort, making it a great choice for both casual typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer something lighter and effortlessly swift, the TTC Iron linear switch would serve you well. With its light actuation force and a pleasing clacky sound, the Iron allows for quick, fatigue-free typing sessions, making it particularly appealing for users who spend extensive hours at their keyboards. Consider your typing style, the environments in which you’ll use the keyboard, and how much you value auditory feedback when making your decision. In the end, both switches offer unique benefits—it's all about aligning their characteristics with your specific needs and preferences.
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