Huano Caramel Latte vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are two standout choices, particularly for those who prefer linear switches. The Caramel Latte is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, delivering a bright and clacky sound profile that enhances tactile feedback and enjoyment during typing. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a responsive feel and a lively auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is an excellent option for those seeking a smooth and affordable feel with its buttery smooth keystrokes and a satisfying low-pitched “thock” sound. While the Milky Red Pro leans into a more subdued auditory experience, its budget-friendly design does not compromise on quality. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences—be it the Caramel Latte's energetic clack or the Milky Red Pro's gentle thock. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches diverge in their choice of top housing materials, specifically the POK material used in the Caramel Latte and the nylon utilized in the Milky Red Pro. POK, or polyketone, is engineered to provide exceptional smoothness due to its relatively low coefficient of friction of 0.04. While this value is slightly higher than that of nylon's 0.03, the durability and shock resistance of POK are significantly superior, making it 14 times more wear-resistant than POM and offering improved shock absorption compared to materials like Nylon. Consequently, those who prefer the Caramel Latte might enjoy a smoother typing experience combined with a more robust long-term performance.
On the other hand, both the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Milky Red Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material choice contributes significantly to their sound profile, fostering a deeper and fuller auditory experience while typing. As nylon is a softer plastic, it has an inherent ability to absorb sound, which results in a duller and rounder keypress sound. Since both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics, with a more muted and rich acoustic output aligning with that commonality, despite the differing materials found in their respective top housings.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the Caramel Latte and Milky Red Pro lead to differing feel and acoustic attributes during the typing experience while both switches maintain a harmonious auditory profile due to their nylon bottom housings. The POK material of the Caramel Latte offers enhanced smoothness and durability, leading to a different tactile sensation upon key press compared to the milder response from the nylon top of the Milky Red Pro. Thus, while the two switches may produce a similarly rich sound due to their common bottom housing, they will diverge in the overall typing experience, with the Caramel Latte leaning towards more tactile precision and the Milky Red Pro offering consistent and robust acoustic pleasure.
Weight
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch share a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly; the Caramel Latte requires 55 grams to register fully, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) bottoms out at 52 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light touch for actuation, the Huano Caramel Latte provides a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to those who enjoy lighter action for longer use, the Caramel Latte will feel slightly heavier in full descent compared to the Milky Red Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, a notable difference becomes apparent. The Caramel Latte boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, if you're seeking quicker response times for gaming, the Caramel Latte may be more appealing with its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke and the tactile feedback that comes with a longer travel, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is the better option. Thus, in this comparison, the Huano Caramel Latte's travel distance is shorter, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has the longer travel distance.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Huano Caramel Latte switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch, distinct qualities emerge. The Caramel Latte is noted for its bright and clacky sound, which tends to create an engaging and lively auditory experience as each key is pressed. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro is characterized by its low-pitched thocky sound, delivering a deeper and richer acoustic feedback that is more subdued and satisfying. While both switches provide enjoyable auditory feedback, the Caramel Latte delivers a more high-frequency, bright sound, whereas the Milky Red Pro offers a bass-heavy quality that embodies a more subdued resonance.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Latte switch boasts a super smooth typing experience, resulting in a pleasurable feel as each keystroke is executed. This smoothness enhances the overall typing experience, making it ideal for those who value fluid motion. The Milky Red Pro also emphasizes a smooth keystroke, described as buttery, which provides a seamless and effortless sensation while typing. Both switches prioritize a fluid and smooth experience, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions; however, the Caramel Latte may have an edge with even greater smoothness as highlighted in its description.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches offer appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. The Caramel Latte is bright and clacky, promoting an engaging typing atmosphere, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a deeper thocky sound that leans towards a more mellow auditory experience. When it comes to feel, both switches provide a notably smooth typing experience, making them both great choices for different types of users. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and the subtle variations in tactile feedback, with both switches promising satisfying results for typists.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a slightly heavier keystroke with a clacky and bright sound profile, the Caramel Latte might be the better option for you, providing a delightful tactile experience that can enhance your enjoyment while typing or gaming. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams feels satisfying for those who appreciate that extra bit of resistance without being cumbersome. On the other hand, if you seek affordability combined with a smooth, buttery typing experience and a deeper sound profile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) could be your ideal choice. With a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, it offers a seamless keystroke that many would find pleasant for both gaming and long typing sessions, thanks to its appealing thocky sound. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what aspects — be it sound, feel, or weight — are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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