Huano Caramel Latte vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The Huano Caramel Latte, a linear switch, is favored for its smooth operation, featuring a medium actuation force of 50g that provides a satisfying and clacky sound profile with every keystroke. This makes it an excellent option for typists and gamers alike who appreciate a straightforward and fluid typing experience without tactile bumps. In contrast, Gateron Magnetic Jade switches utilize hall effect technology, offering a similar bright and clacky sound while delivering enhanced acoustics and an innovative actuation mechanism. These switches are ideal for Wooting Hall Effect keyboards and cater to those who seek superior performance and a distinct feel in their typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, making them appealing for different users. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influence the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Caramel Latte employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing, known for its low coefficient of friction of 0.04, making it one of the smoothest options available. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade uses polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper and clearer sound profile due to its resonant qualities. While both materials have their distinct advantages, the Caramel Latte's POK is praised for its durability and wear resistance, which outperforms many common materials such as POM and Nylon. The difference in sound signature is notable; POK contributes to a smooth, clacky sound, while polycarbonate enhances the switch's auditory profile with a higher pitch.
When examining the bottom housings of the two switches, both the Caramel Latte and the Magnetic Jade use nylon, a classic choice that embodies certain acoustic characteristics. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic means that when typing, the experience feels similar in terms of sound absorption and resonance. Since the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, users will notice a homogenized typing experience despite the disparities in the top housing materials. Therefore, both switches can produce a balanced audio experience due to the consistent use of nylon in their bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of different top housing materials creates unique typing experiences for these switches. The Caramel Latte's POK top facilitates a smooth, clacky keystroke, while the Magnetic Jade's polycarbonate top offers a more clear and resonant sound. However, the utilization of nylon in both bottom housings lays a foundation for deep sound absorption, leading to a fuller typing experience regardless of the differences above. Consequently, while the top housing materials create distinct characteristics, the shared nylon bottom ensures that users will find some familiar elements in both switches, contributing to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we notice distinct differences in their actuation forces while sharing a common bottom out force. The Caramel Latte switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Magnetic Jade switch features a lighter actuation force of just 30 grams. Both switches, however, have the same bottom out force of 55 grams, signifying that users will experience the same level of resistance when pressing the key all the way down. Because of its lighter actuation force, the Magnetic Jade switch is likely to appeal to those who prefer quicker response times and less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Huano Caramel Latte, being heavier at the actuation stage, may provide a more substantial feedback feel that some users find appealing for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and feedback during use.
Travel distance
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a more pronounced keypress, which may appeal to users who enjoy a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade's shorter travel distance contributes to quicker actuation, making it a potentially better choice for gamers who favor fast response times. Although both switches are shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the Caramel Latte is the longer option here, providing a subtle depth that some may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding the feel and responsiveness of the switch.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch produces a bright, clacky sound profile, which is pleasing during typing and provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Similarly, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch features a bright, clacky sound that also elevates the auditory experience while typing, particularly appealing for users who enjoy an engaging acoustic environment. While the sound characteristics of both switches are commendably similar, it’s important to recognize that actual sound output can be influenced by other factors, such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps, which could slightly alter the acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte switch boasts a medium weight of 50g at bottom out, delivering a super smooth typing experience that enhances comfort and responsiveness with each key press. This makes the Caramel Latte particularly enjoyable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, while specific details on the feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch are not provided, it is positioned as a top choice for users seeking a superior typing experience. Given this reputation, one might expect the Magnetic Jade switch to also offer a comfortable and satisfying feel, possibly sharing some similarities with the smooth experience of the Caramel Latte.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches stand out for their bright, clacky sound profiles, making them excellent choices for those who appreciate a lively auditory experience. Additionally, while the Caramel Latte is well-defined with its smooth 50g weight, the Magnetic Jade is also recognized for its superior typing experience, though specifics remain undisclosed. Ultimately, both switches cater to users seeking engaging sound and enjoyable feel, ensuring that either option would likely yield satisfying results in the keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with a classic clacky sound profile, the Caramel Latte is an excellent choice. Its medium-light force of 55 grams strikes a balance that’s ideal for both typing and gaming, making it a versatile option for everyday use. On the other hand, if you are looking for a superior typing experience with enhanced acoustics, the Magnetic Jade switch is where you should lean. Featuring the same medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it provides a unique response and sound that can elevate your experience, especially if you’re incorporating it into a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard setup. Ultimately, if sound quality and a specialized aesthetic are high on your list, go for the Magnetic Jade; if you value an overall smoothness and love the tactile sensation of clear feedback with each keystroke, the Caramel Latte will serve you well.
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