Huano Caramel Latte vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Dustproof Green present distinct options catering to different preferences. The Caramel Latte, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and medium actuation force of 50g, making typing a seamless and enjoyable experience. Its bright, clacky sound profile adds a layer of auditory satisfaction for those who appreciate a bit of flair in their typing environment. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that excels in providing tactile feedback, perfect for typists who enjoy the distinct "click" sound that accompanies each keystroke, enhancing their overall typing rhythm and engagement. While the Caramel Latte appeals to users seeking a quieter and smoother experience, the Dustproof Green caters to those who value pronounced audio feedback in their typing journey. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches are distinct in their top housings but share commonality in their bottom housings. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing made from polyketone, which offers a smooth and resilient performance due to its low coefficient of friction of 0.04 and impressive durability. This material produces a sound profile that is both clacky and satisfying, contributing to the overall experience of using such switches. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green relies on polycarbonate for its top housing. This material is known for its ability to yield a sharper, higher-pitched sound, thanks to its stiffer composition that facilitates a clear and resonant acoustic profile. Thus, while the Caramel Latte excels in providing smooth feedback, the Dustproof Green prioritizes a crisp auditory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic material known for its acoustic qualities. The nylon bottom housing enhances the overall sound profile by delivering a deeper and fuller tone during keypresses. This dimension of sound is crucial, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder note when typing. The uniformity in the bottom housing material means that both switches will produce similar auditory characteristics when pressed, highlighting the significance of the bottom housing in shaping the tactile experience.
In conclusion, while the Huano Caramel Latte and Outemu Dustproof Green switches differ in their top housing materials—POK versus polycarbonate—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent, deep sound profile when typing. The combination of the distinct sound qualities from the respective top materials contributes to a variety of responses: the Caramel Latte offers a smooth action with a more clacky sound, while the Dustproof Green delivers a clear and sharp auditory feedback. Each switch’s unique construction ultimately provides users with diverse tactile experiences, although their bottom-out experiences remain harmoniously aligned due to the nylon bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there is a significant difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, allowing for comfortable typing and prolonged use without fatigue. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch features a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Caramel Latte is 55 grams, whereas the Dustproof Green's is notably heavier at 80 grams. Consequently, if you're looking for lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Caramel Latte would be the preferable choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a stronger tactile response, the Outemu Dustproof Green offers the heftier feel you might be seeking. In summary, the Caramel Latte is the lighter option, while the Dustproof Green is the heavier and more forceful alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there's a clear distinction between the two. The Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter and generally preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, aligning with the traditional preference for a bit more depth in each keystroke. This longer travel distance caters to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience, avoiding the abrupt feel often associated with shorter distances. Thus, if you're looking for responsiveness, the Caramel Latte is the better choice, while those who value a hearty depth might lean towards the Dustproof Green. Overall, each switch offers a distinct tactile experience shaped by its travel distance, appealing to different user preferences.
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 Dustproof Green 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 profile that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This lively sound may appeal to users who enjoy an engaging and audible keystroke, making each press feel more pronounced. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch lacks a detailed description of its sound characteristics, but as a clicky switch, it is generally expected to produce a distinct, crisp click sound upon actuation. This clicky feedback can be satisfying for typists who enjoy auditory confirmation of their keystrokes, but without specific details, one can only anticipate a traditional clicky sound.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Latte offers a pleasant typing experience complemented by a medium actuation force of 50g, providing a balance between resistance and smoothness that allows for effortless keystrokes. This linear switch contributes to a buttery-smooth feel that many typists find enjoyable, especially for prolonged typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Green, being a clicky switch, is designed to provide tactile feedback upon actuation, which many users appreciate for its distinct feel. However, specific details about the weight and smoothness of the Outemu Dustproof Green are not highlighted, leaving some uncertainty in how it compares directly to the Caramel Latte.
In conclusion, the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch shines with its bright sound profile and smooth feel, ideal for users seeking an engaging typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, while promising a satisfying click, lacks information on its specific auditory and tactile feedback to make a comprehensive comparison. If you're drawn to auditory feedback and a pronounced keystroke, the Outemu might be suitable, but the Huano Caramel Latte offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience all around, making it a solid choice for anyone new to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and intended usage. If you seek a smooth and pleasant typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that allows for fast and effortless keystrokes, the Caramel Latte is an excellent option. Its mellow sound profile and smooth feel make it ideal for long typing sessions, gaming, or if you simply want an unobtrusive switch that won't disrupt your surroundings. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier tactile response and enjoy a distinct audible click that reinforces each keystroke, the Dustproof Green is tailor-made for you. Its higher bottom-out force contributes to a robust feel that can enhance your productivity, especially if you type aggressively or want clear confirmation of your inputs. Therefore, whether you prioritize a smooth, quiet experience or a satisfying clicky feedback, both switches have their unique advantages to cater to your keyboard preferences.
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