Huano Caramel Latte vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Keygeek Keylin both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The Caramel Latte, with its medium weight of 50g bottom-out force, is renowned for its bright, clacky sound profile and super smooth typing experience, providing a tactile delight with every keystroke. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin, utilizing new molds for an enhanced design, promises a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and an equally exceptional smoothness. While the Caramel Latte may appeal to those who enjoy a lively soundscape during typing, the Keylin emphasizes a more subdued, upscale auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Huano Caramel Latte and the Keygeek Keylin are primarily distinguished by their top housing materials, which reflect differing characteristics in terms of sound and feel during typing. The Caramel Latte utilizes a POK top housing, known for its exceptionally smooth operation and high durability. With a coefficient of friction that allows for smooth key presses, POK delivers a clacky and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin features a nylon top housing, a classic material that tends to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory profile. While both materials strive for quality in their performance, the POK material’s resilience and lower friction provide a distinct tactile sensation compared to the softer, sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
When considering the bottom housings of both switches, the playing field levels out as both the Caramel Latte and Keylin opt for nylon. As a result, users of either switch can expect a similar auditory performance, echoing the nylon’s characteristic ability to create a deeper, rounded sound profile. The softness of the nylon material contributes to a less pronounced bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. This similarity in the bottom housings suggests that when users engage with these switches, a mellower sound will resonate through both models, albeit with contrasting qualities stemming from their unique top housings.
In essence, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and Keygeek Keylin offer a mixture of characteristics that significantly affect sound and feel, the nylon bottom houses contribute a common thread. The distinct smoothness and durability of the Caramel Latte's POK top housing set it apart from the softer, sound-muting qualities of the Keylin's nylon top. However, since both switch models feature nylon for their bottom housings, users will enjoy a consistent auditory signature that enhances their typing experience. Thus, while the overall performance of the switches may diverge, those shared nylon attributes can help achieve a common goal: enriching the sound profile and providing a satisfying tactile feedback during use.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. 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 Keylin presents a lighter feel with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Keylin better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, contributing to comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Meanwhile, the Caramel Latte, with its heavier actuation force, offers a more substantial typing experience that some users may favor. Thus, if you prioritize a lighter switch that requires less force, the Keygeek Keylin would be the optimal choice, while the Huano Caramel Latte is likely to appeal to those who appreciate a firmer resistance.
Travel distance
Both the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users pressing down on either switch will experience the same key travel, leading to a uniform tactile sensation when typing or gaming. Since both switches have the same travel distance, you can expect similar performance in terms of how far the keys travel from the top to the bottom. Ultimately, this similarity allows for a consistent experience across both switches, making them equally appealing options for those seeking a linear switch with a specific key feel.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Caramel Latte switch produces a bright, clacky sound profile that can be quite engaging during typing. This lively acoustic character makes it appealing for users who enjoy an audible response with each keystroke. Conversely, the Keygeek Keylin switch offers rich acoustics, which contribute to a more refined auditory experience. While both switches are linear, the Caramel Latte's clacking sound contrasts with the Keylin's potentially smoother sound quality, though the exact pitch and level of noise produced can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard design and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte switch is characterized by its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, providing a satisfying resistance that facilitates smooth typing without being overly taxing on the fingers. This creates a fun and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Keylin linear switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness, which indicates that it also offers a silky feel as you navigate through keystrokes. While the specific weight of the Keylin is unknown, both switches seem to promise a fluid and tactile experience; hence, users might find both appealing, particularly if they prioritize smooth operation in their typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches have their unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Latte is pronounced with its bright sound and notable resistance, while the Keylin excels in delivering a premium auditory experience alongside remarkable smoothness. Ultimately, each switch presents a compelling option for newcomers to mechanical keyboards, and the choice between them will largely depend on individual preferences concerning sound and feel. Whether one leans towards the lively tones of the Caramel Latte or the refined richness of the Keylin, both switches are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and style. If you favor a medium-light feel with a bottom-out force of 55 grams, the Caramel Latte offers a smooth and satisfying experience, accompanied by a bright, clacky sound profile that can enhance your enjoyment, especially during long typing sessions or gaming. This makes it an excellent option for users who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback alongside a smooth feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, the Keylin linear switch may be more suitable. It boasts an exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, providing a premium typing experience that feels effortless. If you find yourself prioritizing speed and a more subdued sound while typing, this switch might be the way to go. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a slightly heavier feel and an engaging sound or a lightweight touch and refined acoustics in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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