Huano Caramel Latte vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference, particularly between linear and tactile options. The Huano Caramel Latte, a linear switch with a medium weight of 50g bottom out, is celebrated for its smooth, clacky sound profile that enhances the typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes without any tactile bumps. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a fluid typing experience, ideal for gaming or long hours of typing without interruption. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch caters to enthusiasts seeking maximum tactility. With its sharp and pronounced tactile feedback, coupled with a crisp, clean clack, this switch provides an invigorating experience that many typists find satisfying and engaging. Each switch has its unique attributes that appeal to different styles of use, whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we see notable differences, particularly in their top housings. The Caramel Latte features a top housing made of POK, or polyketone, which distinguishes itself with a very low coefficient of friction (0.04) and significantly enhanced durability compared to POM. POK offers superior shock resistance and wear resistance—14 times stronger than POM—making it an outstanding choice for those seeking a combination of smoothness and longevity in their switches. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes POM for its top housing, which contributes to a slightly different sound dynamic, noted for its muted yet pleasing auditory profile. While both materials have beneficial qualities, the choice of POK in the Caramel Latte aims for enhanced performance and durability, setting it apart in tactile feel and response.
In terms of bottom housing, the Caramel Latte opts for nylon, which enhances sound absorption and contributes to a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This characteristic is impacted by the material's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) maintains a coherent sound profile with its POM bottom housing, which shares a reputation for creating unique and pleasing sounds, albeit on the deeper, more muted side. This means that while both switches produce appealing sound profiles, the Caramel Latte's nylon bottom may provide a more rounded sound due to its ability to absorb sound better than POM, offering a slightly different acoustic experience.
Ultimately, if someone were to choose to pair these two switches in a keyboard, they might still achieve comparable tactile and auditory characteristics, although the nuances in sound and feel would vary. The POK top from the Caramel Latte can lend a smooth and responsive action, while the nylon bottom helps to enrich the sound profile, resulting in a clacky and full experience. Conversely, the Durock's entire POM housing, both top and bottom, offers consistency in sound but with a more muted character. Users looking for a specific tactile profile may find that the hybrid combination of POK and nylon in the Caramel Latte provides a unique advantage, whereas those who enjoy the consistent sound profile of POM in the Durock T1 may appreciate that particular auditory experience as well.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Latte features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which makes it more suitable for extended typing sessions due to its lighter push feel. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower), while lacking an specified actuation force, has a considerably heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, marking it as medium-heavy. This heavier resistance can provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feel under their fingers. Therefore, while the actuation force of the Caramel Latte is defined and genial for prolonged use, the POM T1’s heavier bottom out force presents a more demanding tactile feedback, solidifying its difference in character and suitability based on user preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there is a clear distinction: the Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the POM T1 measures at 4 mm. This makes the Huano Caramel Latte the shorter switch, which may be more appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times and a more immediate tactile feedback. In contrast, the slightly longer travel distance of the POM T1 may provide a more substantial and pronounced keystroke experience, catering to users who prefer that deeper, more tactile feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to a preference for immediate responsiveness versus a fuller keystroke experience.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 sound profile of the Huano Caramel Latte switch is characterized by a bright, clacky tone that stands out during typing, creating an engaging auditory experience. This resonant quality allows each keystroke to feel lively and almost musical, inviting both enjoyment and attention. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has a clean, sharp sound, resonating with a heightened pitch that provides a clear auditory feedback during use. While both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying sound, the Caramel Latte leans more towards a cheerful and bright clack, whereas the POM T1 offers a more refined, neutral sound that may suit varied environments without being intrusive.
Regarding the feel, the Caramel Latte is known for its smooth key presses, offering a seamless typing experience that minimizes any tactile distractions. This smoothness is complemented by a moderate actuation force, making each keystroke feel effortless. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a notably punchy tactile feedback that is sharp and well-defined. This switch delivers a pronounced tactile bump with each keypress, enhancing the sense of precision and responsiveness. The POM T1’s tactile characteristics are more invigorating and snappy, appealing to those who appreciate a pronounced tactile sensation without overwhelming intensity.
In summary, while both the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they each excel in their respective domains. The Caramel Latte offers a bright and smooth experience, ideal for those who desire a cheerful and fluid typing sensation without much tactile feedback. Conversely, the POM T1 is tailored for users who seek distinct tactile feedback along with a sharp auditory profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. Depending on your typing style and environment, both switches will provide satisfying results, but they will cater to different preferences in tactile engagement and sound ambiance.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and a smooth, unbroken feel with a bright, clacky sound profile that enhances your typing experience without much resistance, the Caramel Latte is an excellent choice, particularly for long typing sessions or gaming. Its medium-light actuation force makes it accessible for users who might not want to exert too much effort with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile experience that provides clear feedback with a satisfying and pronounced bump, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the way to go. With a medium-heavy actuation force, it offers a snappy and invigorating feel that can make your typing more engaging, particularly if you enjoy feeling that tactile response with each press. In essence, choose the Caramel Latte for a smoother, lighter typing experience, and go for the POM T1 (Sunflower) if you prefer distinct tactile feedback and a more substantial feel under your fingers. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths and you can't go wrong with either, depending on what aspect of typing brings you the most joy.
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