Huano Caramel Latte vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Jade can significantly impact your typing experience. The Caramel Latte switch, with its medium actuation force of 50g and bright, clacky sound profile, promises a super smooth typing experience that turns each keystroke into a satisfying pleasure. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate an audible feedback and a sense of tactility while typing. On the other hand, the WS Jade switches stand out with their innovative design that incorporates a metallic insert in the stem base, resulting in a bright, resonant sound profile and a visually stunning RGB effect, thanks to a light diffuser. Users who seek a creamy, silky touch combined with a rock-solid bottom-out would find the WS Jade particularly appealing. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you desire that engaging clack of the Caramel Latte or the enchanting resonance of the WS Jade. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches, a notable difference emerges between their top materials: the Caramel Latte utilizes POK (“polyketone”), while the WS Jade features POM (“polyoxymethylene”). POK is recognized for its low coefficient of friction and superior durability, making it a premier choice for creating smooth and robust switches. Specifically, POK's wear resistance is 14 times stronger than that of POM, allowing for an extended lifespan in switches that prioritize longevity. Conversely, POM is celebrated for its unique sound characteristics, creating a deeper and more muted auditory experience. Ultimately, while POK excels in durability and smoothness, POM is revered for its pleasing sound, highlighting a unique blend of characteristics between the two.
In the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon and POM, respectively. The nylon used in the Caramel Latte contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, echoing its softer composition, which absorbs sound and yields a rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade's POM bottom housing is designed to produce a muted sound that still retains a pleasing quality. Here, while both materials are different, they serve a similar purpose: enhancing sound feedback. For both switches, the qualities of the bottom housing play a more significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, ensuring that even with different materials, users can still achieve satisfying auditory feedback.
Overall, the execution of both switches illustrates that despite their differences in housing materials, they can produce similar results in terms of performance and user experience. The Caramel Latte leverages POK for the top housing to emphasize smoothness and durability, while its nylon bottom enhances sound absorption, producing a more rounded auditory profile. In comparison, the WS Jade employs POM universally in both top and bottom housings for a distinct auditory quality, showcasing its versatility within a singular material framework. Ultimately, whether opting for the Caramel Latte or the WS Jade, users can expect a satisfying mix of performance and sound, derived from the respective strengths of each switch's materials.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that can influence user experience. The Caramel Latte has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Jade features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial push sensation. Thus, the Caramel Latte is the lighter option, while the WS Jade is the heavier choice of the two. These differences in force can lead to a distinct typing experience; the lighter Caramel Latte will provide easier key presses, while the WS Jade delivers a firmer response, appealing to those who favor more resistance in their typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience the same distance before the actuation occurs. This uniform travel distance can result in comparable tactile feedback and performance while typing or gaming, making both options suitable for those who prefer a consistent keypress 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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Caramel Latte switch delivers a bright, clacky sound profile that evokes crisp and percussive keystrokes. This auditory experience is characterized by sharp, snappy sounds that can be likened to an energetic typing session, making it particularly appealing to users who enjoy a lively keyboard sound environment. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch produces a distinctly metallic and resonant sound due to its unique design that incorporates a metallic insert in the stem base. This results in a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience that can be described as marbly and clean, reminiscent of the sound of billiard balls colliding. While both switches offer bright sound profiles, the Jade goes further in providing a more resonant and metallic tone that adds a special touch to the typing experience.
Regarding feel, the Caramel Latte switch offers a super smooth typing experience, which makes each keystroke pleasurable. Despite its medium actuation force of 50g, users generally find it easy to press and release, promoting a fluid typing rhythm. In contrast, the WS Jade switch is characterized by a uniquely creamy and silky feel, attributed to the factory lubricant and the specific materials used in construction. The overall experience of typing on the Jade is enhanced by its rock-solid bottom-out sensation, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches emphasize smoothness in different ways, catering to varying preferences in typing feel, while the Jade offers a more luxurious and creamy experience compared to the straightforward smoothness of the Caramel Latte.
Combining the analysis of sound and feel, it is evident that while the Huano Caramel Latte and Wuque Studio WS Jade switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to slightly different auditory and tactile preferences. The Caramel Latte is ideal for those who favor a lively, clacky sound and a smooth feel, while the WS Jade targets users seeking a bright, resonant sound paired with a silky, creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, either choice will provide a smooth typing experience, but the decision will depend on which qualities are more appealing to you as a user.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switches, your choice should align with your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a lively, expressive sound profile with that unmistakable clack and a medium-light actuation force, the Caramel Latte will likely resonate with you. It's an excellent fit for those who appreciate a refreshing auditory experience while typing, making every keystroke a delight. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother and creamier typing feel with a slightly firmer bottom-out force, the WS Jade is designed for you. Its unique metallic sound profile, coupled with a rock-solid bottom-out and a visually enchanting RGB display, elevates the overall typing experience, especially if you enjoy a luxurious tactile journey. In essence, choose the Caramel Latte for a more pronounced auditory experience and a lighter touch, while the WS Jade will serve you well for an indulgent, silky smooth feel and a richer, more resonant sound. Consider these attributes carefully, and let your typing style guide your decision.
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