Huano Caramel Latte vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko V3 Silver Pro present two appealing yet distinct options tailored to different user preferences. The Caramel Latte switch is renowned for its 50g bottom-out force and bright, clacky sound profile, delivering a smooth typing experience that makes each keystroke a satisfying affair. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and a pleasant auditory response while typing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is specifically engineered for gamers, featuring a lighter actuation force and a shortened travel distance that allows for rapid key presses, making it an excellent choice for competitive gameplay where every millisecond can make a difference. Its bassy sound adds a unique character to the typing experience, appealing to users looking for both performance and auditory pleasure. While both switches offer their own unique benefits—be it the delightful acoustics of the Caramel Latte or the quick action of the V3 Silver Pro—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The Huano Caramel Latte and the Akko V3 Silver Pro utilize distinct materials for their top housings, leading to differences in tactile feedback and sound profiles. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, boasting a coefficient of friction of 0.04. This slight increase in friction compared to other materials allows for a smoother typing experience, complemented by the switch's clacky sound and robust build. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro is crafted with a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic. This provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and greater sound clarity, particularly effective when using RGB lighting. While both achieves a high-quality typing experience, the Caramel Latte leans towards a smoother and more resilient feel, while the V3 Silver Pro emphasizes auditory sharpness and resonance.
When examining the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon, which is a classic material for mechanical keyboard switches. Nylon contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound better than harder materials. This characteristic creates a rounded auditory experience when typing. Since both the Caramel Latte and the V3 Silver Pro utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they share similarities in how they feel and sound on bottom-out. Users can expect that both switches will provide a satisfying auditory feedback that is noticeably deeper and more muted than switches that use harder plastics for the bottom housing.
Overall, despite the differences in the top housing materials, the combination of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that users will find a degree of similarity in the acoustic experience of both switches. The Caramel Latte's POK top housing adds a unique smoothness and clackiness, enhancing the tactile feedback during key releases, while the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top produces a clearer sound profile during key presses. Ultimately, the material choices in the top and bottom housings create a balanced overall experience, blending the best elements of durability, sound, and tactile feedback. Thus, regardless of the differences in top housing materials, users can expect an enjoyable typing experience from both switches, anchored by their shared nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the differences highlight their design intentions. The Caramel Latte features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, appealing for those who enjoy a moderate typing feel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance and longer typing sessions, such as during extended work or gaming periods. Overall, the Caramel Latte is the heavier option, while the V3 Silver Pro offers a lighter typing experience, allowing users to choose according to their preference for push feel. If the forces were to be identical, users could experience similar results in the overall typing experience, but here, the notable differences allow for a tailored choice based on individual comfort and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Caramel Latte features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the V3 Silver Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is relatively shorter. For gamers and those seeking quicker responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro may provide an advantage; however, users who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Caramel Latte's longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 switch presents a bright and clacky profile, perfect for those who enjoy an audible feedback that adds character to their typing experience. This high-pitched sound is distinct and can make each keystroke feel lively. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a bassy tone, which delivers a more subdued and rich auditory experience. While the sound quality of these switches is influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, the Caramel Latte is likely to resonate more in a sound-sensitive environment, while the V3 Silver Pro might appeal to users who prefer a warmer tone.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Latte switch is renowned for providing a remarkably smooth typing experience, ensuring a seamless flow with each key press. Its medium weight of 50g provides just the right amount of resistance, making it an engaging option for both typists and gamers alike. The Akko V3 Silver Pro, on the other hand, is designed with gaming in mind, featuring a light actuation force that allows for easy and responsive key presses. This effortless feel is complemented by descriptors such as creamy and polished, indicating a luxurious touch and minimal friction during typing. As a result, the V3 Silver Pro reduces finger fatigue during long gaming sessions while still maintaining a smooth experience.
Overall, while both the Huano Caramel Latte and Akko V3 Silver Pro switches offer unique characteristics, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Caramel Latte provides a bright, clacky sound combined with a smooth, engaging feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy an audible and tactile typing experience. Meanwhile, the V3 Silver Pro focuses on low resistance and a bassy sound profile, designed to enhance performance during gaming with effortless key presses. Selecting either switch will depend on whether you prefer a lively sound profile with a satisfying typing experience or a more subdued sound with an emphasis on speed and comfort.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prefer a typing experience that offers a balanced medium weight and a bright, clacky sound, the Caramel Latte may be the ideal option for you. Its smooth feel and satisfying sound profile make it a great choice for general typing and casual gaming, providing a delightful tactile feedback that enhances your overall experience. On the other hand, if you are primarily a gamer looking for rapid keystrokes and minimal finger fatigue, the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its light actuation force and shortened travel distance is designed specifically with you in mind. The effortless, easy-to-press nature of the V3 Silver Pro will not only give you a competitive edge in fast-paced gaming scenarios but also ensure a comfortable typing experience during long sessions. Consider your primary use—whether it’s for typing, gaming, or a combination of both—along with your preferred sound and feel, and you’ll find the suitable switch that best complements your setup.
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