Huano Caramel Latte vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the HMX KD200 are two excellent options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Latte switch is celebrated for its medium actuation force of 50g, delivering a smooth and satisfying typing experience accompanied by a bright, clacky sound profile that adds a pleasant auditory feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest option within the HMX Film switch family, providing a distinctively sharp and resonant sound that many enthusiasts appreciate for its engaging and lively feedback. While both switches are linear and promote a consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, they offer different auditory experiences and feedback that can influence your typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Caramel Latte and HMX KD200 switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which directly influences their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Caramel Latte's top housing is made from POK (polyketone), known for its impressive durability and low coefficient of friction of 0.04. This combination allows for a smooth actuation and contributes to a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the KD200 is equipped with a nylon top housing. Nylon, while legendary for its acoustic properties, provides a less gliding feel compared to POK, leading to a typing experience that is both softer and warmer. The variance in materials leads to distinct characteristics in sound and feel, with the Caramel Latte favoring a clacky, smooth return, while the KD200 may deliver a more muffled, rounded sound.

When examining the bottom housing of both switches, it becomes apparent that they share a common material: nylon. Casual typing on both the Caramel Latte and KD200 will elicit a deeper and fuller sound because of this nylon, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. The soft nature of nylon allows for a more muted bottom-out sound, creating a rich auditory experience that enhances its overall usability. In this aspect, both switches achieve a similar acoustic quality despite their differences in top housing material. This commonality suggests that users can expect a consistent sound profile from both switches regardless of their top materials.

Overall, the different materials used in the top housing of the Caramel Latte and HMX KD200 create distinct tactile and auditory profiles, while the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a cohesive basis that promotes a rich and deep sound experience across both models. Therefore, even though the top housings diverge in characteristics—favoring either smoothness or a softer sound—users can expect to find their typing experience enriched with a sturdy and pleasant base sound. For consumers contemplating between the two, understanding these nuances allows for a more tailored choice based on personal preference regarding tactile feedback and sound.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing users with a consistent keystroke experience. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Caramel Latte at 55 grams and the KD200 at 50 grams. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to register a key press, the Caramel Latte has a slightly heavier bottom out feel compared to the KD200. Consequently, the KD200, being the lighter option overall due to its lower bottom out force, may be more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Caramel Latte, with its heavier bottom out force, might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX KD200 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference means that the Caramel Latte offers a bit more depth in each keypress compared to the KD200. For gamers or users who favor quicker response times, the KD200 may seem more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, leading to potentially faster actuation and faster gameplay. However, for those who appreciate a fuller keypress experience, the Caramel Latte, with its greater travel distance, might provide a more satisfying tactile sensation. Thus, when choosing between the two, consider whether you prioritize responsiveness or depth, as the Caramel Latte offers a longer travel distance, while the KD200 is the shorter option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch features a bright, clacky sound profile that is both engaging and pleasant, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Its sound adds a distinctive character to each keystroke, providing a lively and satisfying experience. In contrast, the HMX KD200 switch is noted as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting that it also delivers a prominent auditory punch, likely reinforcing the notion of it being a dynamic choice for users who appreciate pronounced sound in their typing experience. Both switches will generate a lively auditory environment, with the KD200 potentially excelling in sheer volume and sharpness, but the final sound produced will ultimately depend on the specific keyboard and keycap choices you make.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Caramel Latte offers a super smooth typing experience, with a medium actuation weight of 50g at bottom out, creating a balanced resistance that many find comfortable and enjoyable for extended typing sessions. This makes the Caramel Latte particularly appealing for typists seeking a nice tactile feedback without excessive strain. On the other hand, while the specific feel of the KD200 isn't detailed, its classification as a linear switch typically implies a smooth keystroke as well. If the KD200 maintains the standard characteristics of linear switches, users can expect a pleasant experience, though it may vary in weight or subtle nuances of texture.

In summary, both the Huano Caramel Latte and HMX KD200 linear switches present their unique auditory and tactile qualities, with the Caramel Latte shining with its smooth feel and bright, clacky sound, while the KD200 is lauded for its clackiness that adds an exciting dimension to the typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve enjoyable results with either switch, catering to different styles of typing while accommodating individual preferences through your choice of keyboard and keycap combinations.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch should be guided by your specific preferences for typing feel, sound, and the overall tactile experience you desire. If you appreciate a smooth typing experience coupled with a medium-light actuation force of 55 grams and a bright, clacky sound profile, then the Caramel Latte would be an excellent choice for you. Its unique balance of texture and acoustics makes for pleasurable typing sessions, especially beneficial if you type frequently or use your keyboard for extended periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and are looking for a switch that emphasizes a more pronounced clackiness, the HMX KD200, with its softer 50-gram bottom out force, will likely be more suited to your style. Its reputation as the clackiest option in its family could appeal to your auditory preferences and bring an added layer of satisfaction to your typing experience. Ultimately, consider both your typing habits and sound preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Caramel Latte Linear

$3.00

$2.75 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more