Huano Caramel Latte vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The **Huano Caramel Latte** switch, known for its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, offers a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances the tactile experience, making every keystroke feel energizing and responsive. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing, allowing for a more engaging and dynamic interaction with their keyboard. In contrast, the **TTC Neptune** switch presents a different approach, featuring an innovative design that promotes a smooth, almost frictionless glide. With its ultralight weight and muted, thocky sound signature, the Neptune appeals to those who prefer a quieter, more subdued typing experience, reminiscent of the gentle sensation of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. Both switches have their unique strengths—whether you prefer the lively feedback of the Caramel Latte or the smooth, cushioned feel of the Neptune. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the top housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the TTC Neptune, significant differences emerge in terms of composition and performance characteristics. The Caramel Latte utilizes POK, or polyketone, which boasts a smooth coefficient of friction at 0.04, slightly higher than the LY material used in some other switches. This makes it one of the smoothest choices available for switch tops. POK is exceptionally durable, exhibiting wear resistance that surpasses POM by 14 times and shock resistance that outperforms Nylon by 2.3 times, thus providing a combination of longevity and tactile satisfaction. In contrast, the Neptune employs POM for its top housing, known for producing a unique sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted spectrum. This difference hints at a divergence in user experience, with the Caramel Latte prioritizing smoothness and resilience, while the Neptune leans toward distinct acoustic properties.
Examining the bottom housing materials further underscores the contrasting design philosophies underpinning these switches. The Caramel Latte features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, rounder sound profile. This absorption is due to nylon's relatively softer nature, contributing to a satisfying typing experience that emphasizes a fuller auditory impact. Meanwhile, the Neptune opts for polycarbonate as its bottom housing material, which is recognized for contributing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer structure. The clear translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting, offering a visual facet that complements its audio characteristics. This disparity showcases how the materials chosen for each switch's bottom housing play a crucial role in shaping user experience.
To synthesize the qualities of both switches, it is essential to understand how each material interacts with the overall typing experience. The top and bottom housings work in tandem; while the Caramel Latte prioritizes smoothness and durability in its POK top, the nylon bottom effectively dampens sound, creating a full-bodied auditory experience. Conversely, the Neptune's POM top delivers a distinctive sound that has a higher resonance, while the polycarbonate bottom adds clarity and sharpness to its auditory output. Despite the differences in materials, it is possible to achieve complementary results by carefully selecting switch configurations that align with desired user preferences—balancing tactile feedback, sound profiles, and aesthetic appeal. Whether opting for the rich smoothness of the Caramel Latte or the crisp clarity of the Neptune, both designs cater to unique tastes and enhance the overall keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which influence user experience significantly. The Caramel Latte has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Neptune is lighter, with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Neptune requires less force to actuate and bottom out, offering a smoother response that may be ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, for users looking for a more effortless typing experience, the TTC Neptune would be the better choice due to its lighter overall feel. Meanwhile, the Huano Caramel Latte provides a more substantial push, which some users might prefer for a firmer typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve distinct preferences, they cater to different user sensibilities regarding typing feel and fatigue during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that they differ slightly. The Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Neptune measures 3.8 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte is the shorter option, offering a more responsive experience that some gamers may prefer for quicker key presses. In contrast, the Neptune's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a deeper feel, which can be appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience. While both switches are suited for different typing preferences, the choice ultimately comes down to whether one favors responsiveness in a shorter throw or a more pronounced depth in a longer throw.
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 Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
The sound profile of the Huano Caramel Latte is characterized by a bright, clacky quality that provides an engaging auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound can be both lively and satisfying, often drawing in those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience while typing. In contrast, the TTC Neptune boasts a considerably more muted and thocky sound signature. The Neptune's low-pitched tones deliver a soft yet rich auditory experience that is less intrusive but still offers a pleasing depth at the moment of contact with the switch. The choice between these two sounds will largely depend on individual preference; if you’re looking for something more vibrant, the Caramel Latte is ideal, while the Neptune offers a more reserved and balanced alternative.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte switches provide a smooth typing experience that many find pleasurable, thanks to their medium weight of 50g at bottom-out. This gives a satisfying resistance that strikes a fine balance for various typing styles without feeling too heavy or too light. Conversely, the TTC Neptune aims to deliver a near-frictionless experience. Its buttery and gummy characteristics create an effortless typing sensation reminiscent of sinking into a soft surface, which can lend itself to long hours of comfortable typing. While the Caramel Latte provides a welcomed tactile feedback, the Neptune emphasizes a more fluid, cushiony keystroke, making it suited for those who prefer an extremely smooth touch.
Overall, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte and TTC Neptune switches hinges on your personal preferences in sound and feel. If you desire a lively, clacky sound with a solid yet smooth feel, the Caramel Latte is excellent. However, if you prefer a more subdued, thocky auditory experience paired with an incredibly smooth and effortless typing sensation, the Neptune is the better choice. Both switches cater to different tastes, so weighing these qualities will guide you toward the best fit for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Huano Caramel Latte linear switches and TTC Neptune linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing experience. If you find joy in a medium-light actuation force and enjoy the satisfaction of a clacky sound profile, the Caramel Latte is an excellent pick. Its smooth keystrokes contribute to a pleasurable typing experience, making it ideal for those who spend long hours working or gaming and prefer a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you gravitate toward ultra-light switches that provide a frictionless and almost buoyant typing sensation, the Neptune could be the way to go. Its unique combination of springiness and a muted, thocky sound profile means you can type effortlessly without disturbing those around you, making it perfect for quieter environments or shared spaces. Choose the Caramel Latte for a slightly more robust feedback and sound, while opting for the Neptune will reward you with a smooth and soft typing experience. Ultimately, it’s about what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you, setting the stage for many delightful typing sessions ahead.
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