Huano Caramel Latte vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Jwick Splash Brothers offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Latte, with its medium actuation force of 50g and vibrant clacky sound profile, is designed for those who enjoy a tactile feedback experience and a symphony of audible keystrokes. Its silky feel enhances the overall typing pleasure, making it a top choice for users who prioritize sound and smoothness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers are tailored for speed enthusiasts, featuring a shorter activation distance and a long pole stem that creates a balanced typing experience. With a mild and creamy sound signature, these switches provide a snappy and polished feel that many competitive gamers and fast typists will find appealing. While both switches fall under the linear category, their distinct characteristics cater to different desires in typing sensation and sound. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Jwick Splash Brothers, the distinction is particularly evident in their top housing compositions. The Caramel Latte utilizes POK, a polyketone material known for its smoothness and remarkable durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it offers a slightly superior gliding experience compared to LY, and its durability is 14 times greater than POM. This results in a clacky feel and sound, further amplified by its higher shock resistance compared to Nylon and POM. In contrast, the Splash Brothers features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer nature that produces a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows it to be effective in RGB lighting scenarios, creating a visually appealing effect that the Caramel Latte, while durable and smooth, does not prioritize in its design.
Examining the bottom housing reveals that both the Huano Caramel Latte and the Jwick Splash Brothers employ nylon, which is renowned for its ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that is consistent across both switches. Nylon's softer characteristics facilitate a more muted sound signature, emphasizing the quality of the bottom-out sound when the switch is pressed. This similarity in the bottom housing material suggests that both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience marked by a rounder sound profile, despite the differences present in their top housings.
Finally, the combined effects of these materials clarify how each switch presents its unique auditory and tactile characteristics. While the POK top housing of the Caramel Latte concentrates on offering sturdiness and a smooth experience, the Splash Brothers' polycarbonate enhances clarity and brightness in sound. Nevertheless, both switches leverage nylon at the bottom to unify their sound profiles, making them richer and fuller. Despite their design differences, the consistent use of nylon ensures that users will experience a gratifying undercurrent of sound from both switches, showcasing how the harmonious interplay of differing top housings can yield similar results in overall performance through their undermined similarities in bottom materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear 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, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, while the actuation force for the Splash Brothers is unknown, it has a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as light. As a result, the Caramel Latte can be deemed heavier due to its known actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for longer typing sessions. Conversely, those who favor a lighter touch will find the Splash Brothers' bottom out force appealing, despite the unknown actuation force. Thus, the Caramel Latte may suit users looking for a bit more resistance while typing, while the lighter forces associated with the Splash Brothers could cater to those seeking ease of use during extended periods.
Travel distance
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that the Caramel Latte offers a more extended travel experience, which some users may find preferable for a more substantial tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the slightly reduced travel distance of the Splash Brothers can cater to those who prioritize faster response times, making it more appealing for gamers seeking quick key actuations. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, if you prefer a more responsive feel, you might opt for the Splash Brothers, whereas those who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced key press may lean towards the Caramel Latte.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Caramel Latte switches offer a bright and clacky profile that results in a sharp and crisp tone with each keystroke. This characteristic is particularly appealing to those who favor a lively auditory response, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they strike a balance that can feel less pronounced compared to the Caramel Latte. However, the creamy sound signature of the Splash Brothers can still provide a pleasant auditory experience, making them suitable for various environments, whether at home or at work. Ultimately, while both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback, the Caramel Latte is more vibrant and noteworthy in sound, while the Splash Brothers offer a subtler, more muted auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Latte excels with its silky smooth typing sensation, allowing users to experience minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This high level of smoothness makes typing on the Caramel Latte feel effortless and fluid. Conversely, the Splash Brothers switches offer a more varied tactile experience: they are mild and approachable, but also bear snappy and bouncy qualities that give a dynamic feedback sensation. This combination can make typing feel lively and responsive, making them particularly enjoyable for fast-paced typing or gaming. The Splash Brothers also offer a polished feel, adding to their refined typing experience. Consequently, while the Caramel Latte is renowned for its smoothness, the Splash Brothers provide a blend of gentleness and responsiveness, catering to different preferences.
Overall, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer unique qualities suitable for different users. The Caramel Latte shines with its clacky sound and silky feel, appealing to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and fluid typing. Meanwhile, the Splash Brothers deliver a more neutral sound paired with a lively and dynamic typing sensation, making them versatile for varied users. Depending on your priorities, you may choose one over the other, but both switches promise to enhance your typing experience in their distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom-out force and enjoy a silky, smooth typing experience coupled with a bright, clacky sound profile, then the Caramel Latte is an excellent option for you. This switch is perfect for those who favor a more tactile feel and a punchy audio feedback, making it a great choice for typists and gamers who appreciate a lively keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force for quicker, more rapid responses, the Splash Brothers would be a better fit. With its shorter activation point and a creamy sound signature, this switch offers a mild and bouncy feel that is approachable for both beginners and seasoned users alike. Therefore, if you seek a balanced switch that can cater to both typing and gaming needs while maintaining a neutral sound profile suitable for shared environments, the Jwick Splash Brothers should be your switch of choice. Ultimately, by considering the specific characteristics of each switch, you can enhance your overall typing experience and find the perfect match for your keyboard setup.
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