Huano Caramel Latte vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT Phalaenopsis present intriguing options that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Latte, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth typing experience and medium actuation force of 50g, which results in an enjoyable and consistent feedback without any tactile bump. Its bright, clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory dimension, making each keystroke feel vibrant. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch designed for comfort, featuring a lighter actuation force of 37g that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. Its characteristic tactile bump offers a satisfying feel with every keystroke, while its 'bassy', 'stepped', and 'thocky' sound qualities enhance the typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths—to some, the smooth and loud nature of the Caramel Latte may be preferable for an immersive typing feel, while others might lean towards the Phalaenopsis for its comfort and tactile feedback. 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
37g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT Phalaenopsis have distinct differences in their housing materials that significantly affect the acoustic profile and tactile experience of each switch. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing, known for its durability and smooth operation, while the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and more resonant sound. The POK material’s excellent wear resistance and shock-absorbing qualities lend the Caramel Latte a smooth, clacky sound, whereas the polycarbonate’s stiffness results in a brighter and crisper sound when typing. When comparing the aesthetics, the POK housing is less translucent than polycarbonate, which may impact the effectiveness of RGB lighting when used with the switches.
The bottom housings further accentuate the differences between the two switches: the Caramel Latte employs a nylon bottom housing known for producing a deeper, fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis opts for polycarbonate in its bottom housing as well. The nylon’s softer texture absorbs more sound and creates a rounder acoustic profile, in contrast to the polycarbonate’s sharp and clear sound. This combination leads to the Caramel Latte having a more muted and heavier feel upon keystroke, while the Phalaenopsis offers a brighter sound that may be favored by users who appreciate a more responsive typing experience.
In summary, the contrasting materials used in the Huano Caramel Latte and the KTT Phalaenopsis contribute to their unique audio and tactile signatures. While the POK top housing and nylon bottom of the Caramel Latte focus on durability and a smooth, clacky feel, the polycarbonate housings of the Phalaenopsis, both top and bottom, create a lighter, more resonant typing experience. For those seeking a hybrid result, selecting a combination of housing materials that matches their desired acoustic and tactile profile can yield nuanced outcomes, blending the robust characteristics of POK with the crispness of polycarbonate for a truly versatile switch experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we find distinct differences in 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 Phalaenopsis is lighter overall, featuring an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the KTT Phalaenopsis requires less force to both actuate and bottom out, making it more suitable for users seeking a lighter typing experience. Conversely, with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, the Caramel Latte offers a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push when typing or gaming. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter switch for extended typing periods will gravitate toward the Phalaenopsis, while users desiring a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the Caramel Latte.
Travel distance
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing a key, the Caramel Latte switch requires less downward movement compared to the Phalaenopsis switch. For gamers seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Caramel Latte may offer a more responsive experience. In contrast, those who prefer a more pronounced feel with a deeper travel might favor the Phalaenopsis due to its longer distance, which may contribute to a more satisfying keystroke. Overall, the Caramel Latte is the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing for quick actions, whereas the Phalaenopsis provides a more traditional feel.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 switches produce a bright and clacky sound profile that is both lively and vibrant, making each keystroke feel animated. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches are characterized by a bassy and thocky sound, which offers a deeper and richer auditory experience. This sound profile typically results in a more muted performance compared to the sharper tones of the Caramel Latte. Both switches, however, can be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, meaning that the final auditory experience may vary regardless of the inherent qualities of each switch.
When evaluating the feel, the Caramel Latte switches are celebrated for their smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes that minimize finger fatigue. Meanwhile, the KTT Phalaenopsis offers a discernible tactile bump, creating a stepped sensation that provides both pre-travel and post-travel feedback, enhancing typing precision and enjoyment. While the Caramel Latte leans toward a seamless experience, the Phalaenopsis introduces a more interactive typing feel, catering to those who appreciate clear tactile signals during their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and KTT Phalaenopsis switches cater to different preferences with their unique sound and feel characteristics. The Caramel Latte stands out for its zippy and bright sound combined with a super smooth action, ideal for those who appreciate a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a richer, deeper sound with a tactile experience that provides satisfying feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you lean towards a linear typing experience or one that incorporates tactile feedback, as both options can deliver an enjoyable and fulfilling mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and satisfying experience while enjoying a medium-light resistance, the Caramel Latte is an excellent fit, especially for gaming or typing where speed and fluidity matter most. Its bright, clacky sound can also enhance the overall enjoyment and engagement of your typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more tactile feedback with a lighter actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue during extensive typing sessions, then the KTT Phalaenopsis is a superb choice. Its stepped tactile design provides a distinct bump at the actuation point, allowing for a deliberate and satisfying keystroke that many find rewarding during daily use. So, consider your needs and preferences carefully; whether it’s the smooth linear allure of the Caramel Latte or the tactile engagement of the Phalaenopsis, each switch has its unique strengths that cater to different typing experiences.
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