Huano Caramel Latte vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and Outemu Cream Blue present two distinct typographical experiences catering to different preferences. The Caramel Latte, a linear switch, is well-regarded for its medium 50g actuation force, offering a smooth and pleasurable typing experience with each keystroke, complemented by a bright and clacky sound profile that adds an engaging auditory element to your interactions. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, provides tactile feedback with an audible click at each activation, making it an ideal choice for those who thrive on sensory feedback during typing. While the Caramel Latte excels in creating a streamlined, uninterrupted flow, the Cream Blue caters to users who appreciate a pronounced sound and tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Blue switches showcase both similarities and key differences that shape their overall performance. The POK material used in the Caramel Latte's top housing is designed to provide a smooth typing experience, characterized by a low coefficient of friction and superior durability compared to more traditional materials like Nylon and POM. In contrast, the Cream Blue utilizes a classic nylon top housing, which, while less durable, influences the sound profile by absorbing vibrations, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Here, the disparity in materials leads to distinct characteristics: the Caramel Latte focuses on smoothness and longevity, while the Cream Blue emphasizes sound quality.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Caramel Latte and the Cream Blue feature nylon, which is recognized for its capacity to produce rich sound profiles. As both switches share this nylon bottom housing, they benefit from similar acoustic qualities that generate a duller and more resonant sound. This mutual use of nylon in the bottom helps balance the tactile feedback of each switch, as the softer plastic contributes to a rounded bottom-out feel. Therefore, regardless of the varying top materials, both switches will primarily offer a deeper sound experience at actuation due to the consistent influence of the nylon at the base.
The combination of the differing top housing materials creates varied overall experiences. The Caramel Latte’s POK top enhances smoothness during typing, while the Cream Blue's nylon provides a more acoustic-focused performance. This contrast means users will feel distinct characteristics when using each switch; while both share similarities in bottom-out sound and feel due to their nylon bottoms, the feel and sound on release will differ significantly based on the top housing’s materials. Ultimately, this variation allows users to choose between prioritizing a smooth typing experience or a fuller acoustic profile, and understanding these differences in materials leads to more informed preferences in keyboard switch selection.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, which can be especially beneficial for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Cream Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Regarding bottom out forces, the Caramel Latte reaches 55 grams while the Cream Blue offers a heftier bottom out force of 65 grams. Overall, the Caramel Latte is considered medium-light, while the Cream Blue falls into the medium-heavy category, appealing to different preferences in typing strength. Users looking for a lighter switch will enjoy the Caramel Latte for its ease of use, while those desiring a firmer tactile experience might gravitate towards the Cream Blue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, the Caramel Latte features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness and is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker reaction times. On the other hand, the Cream Blue, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, provides a more pronounced depth that some users may find more satisfying for typographical tasks. In summary, if you favor a swift, responsive feel, the Huano Caramel Latte would be the better choice, while those who prefer a pronounced tactile experience might opt for the longer-traveling Outemu Cream Blue 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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch delivers a bright and clacky sound profile, which adds a delightful auditory experience to typing. This characteristic can enhance the overall feedback provided by the switch, making it enjoyable for those who prefer a more vibrant sound when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has not been specified in terms of sound qualities, leaving its auditory performance somewhat of a mystery. However, considering it is a clicky switch, one might expect a distinct, pronounced click when actuated, but specific details are lacking.
Regarding the feel, the Caramel Latte linear switch is known for its smoothness, offering a super smooth typing experience that can be notably satisfying for users who prefer a seamless keystroke without any tactile bumps or interruptions. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is also unspecified. As a clicky switch, it can typically be anticipated to provide tactile feedback, often with a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which distinguishes it sharply from the linear feel of the Caramel Latte.
In conclusion, while the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch offers a defined auditory and tactile experience with its bright sound and smooth feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks detailed descriptions for both sound and feel, making them harder to compare directly. If you're in search of a bright, engaging typing experience, the Caramel Latte will meet that criterion, while the Cream Blue might appeal to those who prefer traditional clicky feedback, though the specifics of its sound and feel remain unclear. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a smooth or a clicky experience, and the Caramel Latte provides a clearer picture of what you can expect.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch should depend on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you lean towards a smoother, quieter typing experience, particularly for tasks like writing or programming where concentration is key, the Caramel Latte might be the better option for you. Its medium-light actuation force and smooth travel offer a tactile experience without the auditory distraction, making it ideal for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with a satisfying clack on each keystroke, the Cream Blue switch could be more to your liking. The medium-heavy actuation force coupled with its clicky sound profile provides a tactile experience that many typists find gratifying, especially in an environment where such sound isn’t a distraction. In essence, choose the Caramel Latte for a seamless and silent experience, while opting for the Cream Blue if you prefer audible feedback and a more intentional typing feel. Ultimately, your preferred typing style and the setting in which you will use the keyboard should guide your selection between these two distinct switches.
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