Huano Caramel Latte vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Pink can significantly influence your typing experience. The Huano Caramel Latte switch is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and its bright, clacky sound profile, offering a smooth feel that transforms each keystroke into an enjoyable action. This makes it an excellent option for users who appreciate tactile feedback and an auditory indication of their typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink switch, also a linear switch, lacks distinguishing features but presents a consistent and reliable typing experience that many users seek in their daily computing tasks. While the Cream Pink is appreciated for its straightforward performance, the Caramel Latte stands out with its unique sound profile and engaging feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
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
2.00 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
When examining the housing materials for the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Pink, a notable distinction arises in their top housing compositions. The Caramel Latte features a top housing made from POK (polyketone), which offers exceptional durability and a smoother typing experience with a lower coefficient of friction. This enhances the overall switch feel, allowing for a crisp and clacky sound during operation. In contrast, the Cream Pink utilizes nylon for its top housing. While nylon is a classic material known for its softer texture and sound-absorbing qualities, it does not provide the same level of smoothness or durability as POK. Therefore, while both materials are solid choices, the Caramel Latte’s POK is engineered for a more responsive and articulate typing experience compared to the Cream Pink’s warmer, duller tone stemming from its nylon composition.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Pink opt for nylon. This creates a uniformity in the sound profile as each switch's bottom-out impact relies on the properties of nylon. The use of this softer plastic in both switches means that users will experience deeper and fuller sound characteristics regardless of the differences in their top housings. As the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and tactile feel, the consistent use of nylon ensures that both switches will produce a rounded auditory experience. This aspect becomes the common ground where the switches align, offering a similar acoustic profile in terms of the bottom-out feedback.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials result in differing experiences in actuation, while the shared nylon bottom housing provides a consistent auditory experience across both switches. The unique POK material in the Caramel Latte enhances the clarity and responsiveness when keys are released, contributing to a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top in the Cream Pink enriches the sound but may lack the same sharpness during actuation. Users seeking a distinct tactile and auditory difference may prefer the nuanced experience of POK in the Caramel Latte, while others may appreciate the familiar warmth of nylon that the Cream Pink embodies. Ultimately, both switches offer their own character, driven by the synergy between their varying top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. 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 Cream Pink switch features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Consequently, the Caramel Latte is the lighter option, which can be beneficial for users looking for a switch that allows for prolonged typing or gaming without fatigue. On the other hand, the Cream Pink's heavier forces provide a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push while typing. Overall, users seeking comfort during extended use may favor the lighter Caramel Latte, while those who appreciate a firmer keystroke experience may opt for the Cream Pink.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we see a notable difference: the Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Pink measures at 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, whereas the Cream Pink, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial tactile experience that some users may find preferable for a more pronounced feel. If both switches were to have the same travel distance, users could expect similar typing dynamics and responsiveness; however, the distinct measurements between these two switches suggest that users will experience a difference in their typing or gaming preferences based on the notable length disparity.
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 Pink 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch is characterized by its bright, clacky sound profile, making it quite audible with each keystroke. This distinct auditory quality can enhance the typing experience for users who enjoy a more expressive sound while typing. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is currently unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how its acoustics may compare to the Caramel Latte. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which can lead to similar results in acoustics based on those elements.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Huano Caramel Latte provides a super smooth typing experience that many users find pleasurable, with a medium actuation force of 50g at bottom out. This weight strikes a balance between ease of actuation and resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, details about the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch are not provided, so it remains unknown how it would compare in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness. Users who prioritize a seamless typing experience may lean toward the Caramel Latte for its established reputation, but without specific information on the Cream Pink, a definitive comparison cannot be made.
In summary, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch offers a clacky sound and a smooth typing feel, making it a great choice for users seeking a lively and enjoyable typing experience. The information about the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is lacking, particularly in terms of sound and tactile feedback, which makes it difficult to draw direct comparisons. Those seeking similar qualities may find both switches suitable, but ultimately, the standout features of the Caramel Latte provide a clearer direction for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a smoother, lighter typing experience, the Caramel Latte’s medium-light 55g bottom out force may suit you perfectly, offering a satisfying clacky sound that enhances the joy of every keystroke. This switch is particularly well-suited for long typing sessions or if you appreciate an overall softer feel while working or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer tactile response and don’t mind a bit more resistance with the heavier 65g bottom out force of the Cream Pink, you might find this switch aligns better with your needs. Although it lacks distinct sound characteristics, its feel and sturdiness provide a reliable experience that may appeal to those who prioritize durability and feedback. In essence, choose the Caramel Latte for a lighter, more expressive typing experience, and the Cream Pink if you desire a solid, robust switch that can stand up to demanding use.
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