Huano Caramel Latte vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer distinct experiences tailored to different types of users. The Caramel Latte, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and a satisfying clacky sound profile, thanks to its medium weight of 50g at bottom out, making it an ideal choice for typists and gamers who prefer uninterrupted, rapid key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch is a tactile option that provides a noticeable bump upon actuation, enhancing the typing experience with tactile feedback that many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. While the Caramel Latte appeals to those who seek a fluid, quieter experience, the Dustproof Purple caters to users who appreciate the sensory engagement of tactile switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches, a notable difference lies in their top housings. The Caramel Latte features a POK (polyketone) top housing, known for its impressive durability and low friction properties, resulting in a smooth switch operation. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK provides a slightly smoother experience compared to the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top housing, which offers a crisper sound profile due to its rigidity. Although polycarbonate contributes a more resonant sound and enhances the visual aesthetics with its translucency—ideal for RGB lighting—its sound quality tends to be higher-pitched compared to the warm, clacky notes produced by the POK material in the Caramel Latte.
Despite their differences in the top housing, both switches share the same nylon material in their bottom housings. Nylon's classic status as a switch housing material is attributed to its softness, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing creates a commonality in the sound experience when typing on both switches, as the nylon absorbs sound and contributes to the overall tonal quality. The unified bottom housing ensures that regardless of the differing top materials, both switches will have a consistent sound character at their base level, blending the sound profiles of the top and bottom to produce harmonious results.
Ultimately, the combination of distinct top housings—POK in the Caramel Latte and polycarbonate in the Dustproof Purple—contrasts with their shared nylon bottom housing, leading to unique yet complementary sound experiences. Each switch harnesses the strengths of its respective top material while benefitting from the warmth and depth of the nylon base. As a result, both switches showcase how different top materials can influence sound profiles while still maintaining underlying similarities through the shared properties of nylon, creating a fascinating dynamic when typing or gaming.
Weight
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch offer distinct actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to different user preferences. The Caramel Latte features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it well-suited for those who prefer a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Consequently, the Caramel Latte switch is generally more accommodating for users looking for ease of use, while the Dustproof Purple provides more feedback through its higher resistance. Overall, if you favor lighter switches, the Huano Caramel Latte would be the ideal choice, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Purple would be recommended for individuals seeking a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Purple. The shorter travel distance of the Caramel Latte may appeal to gamers or those who prefer quicker response times and a more immediate feel when pressing keys. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple, with its longer travel distance, might provide a more substantial key press, which some users prefer for a hearty depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more pronounced key action.
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 Purple 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
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch delivers a bright, clacky sound profile that adds an engaging auditory dimension to typing. This characteristic not only enhances the overall experience but also makes it enjoyable to type on, as the sound can provide a satisfying feedback loop while you work or play. Although the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch does not have specific sound qualities documented, it’s important to remember that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material. Thus, if you pair either switch with the right components, you may achieve a pleasant auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte is renowned for its super smooth typing experience, which comes from its medium weight of 50g at bottom out. This smoothness allows for a fluid typing motion, making it less fatiguing over extended periods. The Outemu Dustproof Purple switch, while it lacks detailed descriptions of its feel, is expected to provide a tactile sensation indicative of its purpose. Tactile switches generally give users a noticeable bump upon actuation, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. If you prefer distinct feedback, you might find it preferable to the smoothness of the Caramel Latte.
In conclusion, while the Huano Caramel Latte switch offers a brilliantly engaging sound and an exceptionally smooth typing feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch remains less defined in terms of sound and tactile characteristics. The Caramel Latte is ideal for those who value both audio feedback and a seamless typing experience. Ultimately, your final experience with either switch will heavily depend on the combination of the switch type, keyboard, and keycap selection, but each switch offers distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch fundamentally depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a smooth, quiet typing experience with a medium-light touch, the Caramel Latte switch is a solid choice. Its 55-gram bottom-out force is perfect for prolonged typing sessions, delivering a satisfying, clacky sound that many find pleasing, making it ideal for general use and even for gaming when speed is a priority. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and don't mind a slightly heavier keystroke, the Dustproof Purple would cater to that preference admirably. With a 65-gram bottom-out force, it provides a more resistant feel that can enhance typing accuracy and offer a different auditory experience. This switch can be especially beneficial for people who enjoy a tactile feedback during their typing, which can improve focus and reduce typing errors. Ultimately, your choice should align with what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you while you type or game, reflecting the best match for your specific needs.
Mentioned in this article
