Huano Caramel Latte vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Type A each offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Latte, with its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, clacky sound profile, is celebrated for providing a smooth and delightful typing experience, making it an attractive choice for those who enjoy a lively and responsive feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, a highlight of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, presents a medium-weight switch with a sound profile that leans deeper and offers a more subdued auditory experience, appealing to users seeking a balance between tactile feedback and quieter operation. Both switches present compelling reasons to choose them, whether it's the joyful sound and feel of the Caramel Latte or the refined execution of the Type A. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte and the Gateron Type A switches, one notable distinction lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Caramel Latte features a POK top housing, known for its incredibly low friction and exceptional durability. In contrast, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, noted for its softer characteristics that contribute to a fuller sound profile. While the POK material offers a slick typing experience due to its low coefficient of friction, the nylon's sound-dampening properties can enhance the auditory experience, making it richer and more pronounced. Therefore, typists looking for smoothness might prefer the Caramel Latte, while those focused on sound might gravitate towards the Gateron Type A.
However, the bottom housings of both switches share an important similarity, as they are both constructed from nylon. This commonality means that the sound profile created during typing will resonate similarly in both switches' bottoms. The nylon's sound-absorbing qualities help to create a deeper and fuller acoustic experience, resulting in a duller and rounder sound whether you are using the Caramel Latte or the Type A. Consequently, while the upper experience varies significantly due to the different materials, the sonic consistency provided by the nylon bottoms creates a harmonious connection between both switches.
Ultimately, the division of material properties between the top and bottom housings allows both switches to deliver unique, albeit complementary experiences. The distinct feel and sound characteristics of the POK and nylon top housing in the Caramel Latte hinge on the switch's operation at the upper end, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both housing configurations retain a similar acoustic performance when bottoming out. As a result, users can expect a differentiated tactile feedback while enjoying a coherent sound profile across both types, illustrating how diverse materials can be balanced for desired feel and sound outcomes in keyboard switches.
Weight
The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both feature a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that they offer a similar feel when fully pressed down. However, the actuation forces differ slightly, with the Caramel Latte requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke compared to the 50 grams needed for the Type A. This means that the Huano Caramel Latte is lighter in terms of actuation, providing a less strenuous typing experience that can be beneficial for extended use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Type A, with its higher actuation force, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Overall, while both switches provide a medium-light bottom out force, the Caramel Latte stands out as the lighter option due to its lower actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Huano Caramel Latte features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type A has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Latte the shorter option, providing a slightly quicker response time that may be appealing to gamers seeking speed. Conversely, the Gateron Type A, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a more tactile or hearty typing experience. Thus, for those who enjoy fast actuation, the shorter 3.6 mm distance of the Caramel Latte will yield more responsive feedback, while the Gateron Type A’s 4 mm distance will cater to individuals who appreciate a deeper keystroke.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 linear switch stands out with its bright, clacky tone, providing a lively auditory feedback that many typists find enjoyable. This sound profile enhances the typing experience, creating an engaging atmosphere whether you’re gaming or typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A leans towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum, characterized as neutral and subdued. While the Type A switch generates a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments—be it a bustling office or a quiet home—a user seeking an exuberant auditory experience might find it less appealing compared to the Caramel Latte's more pronounced acoustics.
In terms of feel, the Huano Caramel Latte offers a super smooth typing experience, largely attributed to its medium weight of 50g at bottom out. This smoothness allows for a seamless keystroke that feels pleasant throughout extended typing sessions. The Gateron Type A also caters to those looking for a medium-weight feel, enhanced by innovative lubing techniques that aim to provide a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. While both switches may offer an intuitive response for typists, the Caramel Latte’s smoothness may feel slightly more pronounced due to its design choices that emphasize a fluid keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Huano Caramel Latte and Gateron Type A linear switches present unique attributes that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Caramel Latte excels in offering a brighter sound and ultra-smooth feel, appealing to those who favor an exciting typing experience. Conversely, the Type A’s deeper sound and innovative construction provide a more subdued, yet satisfying typing experience that may suit users looking for versatility in various settings. Both switches present a medium weight, ensuring that whichever one you choose, you’re likely to enjoy a great typing experience, albeit with different auditory and tactile nuances.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use them. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a lively, clacky sound profile that provides a touch of charisma to your keystrokes, the Caramel Latte is an excellent pick. It's particularly suited for casual use, gaming, or even light office work where you want to enjoy an engaging auditory experience without being too disruptive. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a more subdued sound profile and a deeper acoustic signature, the Gateron Type A might be the way to go. It strikes a balance that makes it very versatile, ideal for a professional setting or any situation where a quieter environment is appreciated. Both switches have the same medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, so you can expect a similar keystroke feel, but the differences in sound and character will guide you toward the right choice based on your personal typing style and the noise levels you find acceptable.
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