Huano Caramel Latte vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your overall typing experience. Two popular options for enthusiasts are the Huano Caramel Latte and the SP-Star RedBlue, both of which are linear switches but cater to different preferences. The Caramel Latte is celebrated for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, clacky sound profile, providing a super smooth typing experience that makes every keystroke a genuine pleasure. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a medium-light typing experience and a relatively low-pitched sound profile that is described as neutral and mild, appealing to users who value a more subdued auditory feedback during their typing sessions. While both switches deliver a satisfying tactile experience, the Caramel Latte leans toward a more pronounced auditory response, while the RedBlue prioritizes a polished and thocky feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Caramel Latte and the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall performance and auditory experience. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing, known for its smooth surface and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it promotes a fluid keystroke while its exceptional wear resistance, being 14 times stronger than POM, ensures longevity. In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is stiffer and results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference means that while the Caramel Latte delivers a smoother tactile experience, the RedBlue emphasizes clarity and resonance, particularly noticeable when used in setups with RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing, the two switches continue to showcase differing material choices that affect sound and feel. The Caramel Latte incorporates nylon in its bottom housing, a classic choice that results in a deeper, fuller sound due to its ability to absorb sound effectively. This contrasts sharply with the polycarbonate material used in the RedBlue’s bottom housing, which contributes a crisper and more pronounced sound. The nylon's softer qualities lend themselves to a rounded auditory profile, while the rigidity of polycarbonate enhances clarity, creating a more dynamic and potentially sharper feedback upon bottoming out. Thus, both switches reflect unique acoustic characteristics arising from their chosen materials, with the Caramel Latte favoring warmth and fullness, and the RedBlue leaning towards bright and clear sounds.
Together, the combination of housing materials in each switch shapes the user experience in terms of tactile feedback and auditory response. The Huano Caramel Latte’s POK and nylon blend harmonizes both smoothness and warmth, delivering a satisfying 'thock' when pressed. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue's polycarbonate pair, both top and bottom, creates a seamless experience defined by sharpness and clarity. If these switches were to share the same housing materials, one would achieve a blend of smooth operation complemented by a broad soundscape. However, with their respective materials, users can choose the switch that either aligns with their preference for smoother, warmer sounds or for sharper, more resonant feedback. Both designs embrace a distinctive character, and this intentional contrast allows enthusiasts to tailor their keyboard experience to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we find that the Caramel Latte has a specified actuation force of 45 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a medium-light feel, making them suitable for extended typing and gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Caramel Latte reaches 55 grams, while the RedBlue is slightly heavier at 57 grams. This means that even though the Caramel Latte is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, the RedBlue provides a more substantial bottom out experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch might lean towards the Caramel Latte for smoother keystrokes, while users who appreciate a firmer feel on bottoming out might opt for the RedBlue. Overall, while both switches cater to a similar audience of users looking for medium-light feedback, the Caramel Latte is the lighter choice due to its actuation force, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Caramel Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the RedBlue features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a slightly shorter keypress, which can provide a more responsive feel, particularly favored by gamers seeking quick reaction times. On the other hand, the RedBlue, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress, providing a sense of depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: for a snappier experience, the Caramel Latte is the better option, while for a more traditional and hearty feel, the RedBlue is ideal.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Huano Caramel Latte and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches, the Caramel Latte offers a bright, clacky sound that can be quite lively and noticeable during use, making it a favorable choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback. In contrast, the RedBlue switches produce a relatively low-pitched sound that is more on the softer, bass-heavy side. Their sound profile tends towards a thocky quality, evoking a deep and rich resonance with each keystroke. This difference in sound character means that while both switches can be enjoyable to type on, the Caramel Latte leans towards a more energetic auditory experience, while the RedBlue is likely to provide a quieter, more muted atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Latte switches are recognized for their super smooth typing experience, which can be attributed to their medium weight of 50 grams at bottom out, allowing for a satisfactory resistance that’s neither too heavy nor too light. The RedBlue, on the other hand, is characterized by a milder typing experience, offering a gentle touch that is approachable for all users. These switches are polished, ensuring reduced friction and an ultra-smooth key travel that can enhance overall typing performance. The differences in feel indicate that the Caramel Latte may appeal to those who enjoy a more responsive and satisfying tactile sensation, whereas the RedBlue serves those who prefer a more forgiving and light touch.
In conclusion, while both the Huano Caramel Latte and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Caramel Latte offers a bright, clacky sound with a smooth typing sensation, ideal for those who appreciate audio feedback and responsiveness. Conversely, the RedBlue excels in delivering a low-pitched, mild, and polished experience, perfect for users seeking a quieter and more relaxed typing engagement. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, with both options promising to deliver satisfying results in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Caramel Latte and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches, consider your personal preferences for feel, sound, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience and a brighter, clacky sound profile with a bit more character, the Caramel Latte switch is likely your best choice. Its medium-light actuation force combined with a satisfying tactile feedback can elevate your typing enjoyment, making it excellent for general use and longer typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, the RedBlue switches will serve you well. With their polished feel and mild characteristics, they are suitable for both work and play, offering a well-rounded experience that doesn’t draw too much attention. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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