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Huano Caramel Latte vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+

An in-depth look at the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing experience, the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both stand out as excellent linear options, but they cater to different preferences. The Huano Caramel Latte switches are celebrated for their medium weight of 50g bottom-out force and their bright, clacky sound profile, offering a delightful typing sensation that emphasizes a lively, silky feel with every keystroke. Conversely, the WS POM+ switches shine with their all-POM composition, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound that resonates well during use, complemented by a buttery-smooth action that promotes a quieter, more subdued typing experience. While the Caramel Latte appeals to those who relish a brighter auditory feedback and a more vibrant typing feel, the WS POM+ is perfect for users looking for a refinished sensation with a low-pitched 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

45g

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

3.60 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

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

22mm extended double-stage spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, it is apparent that these two switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influence their overall sound and performance. The Caramel Latte's top housing is made of POK, a material known for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability, surpassing both POM and Nylon. This specification allows the Caramel Latte to achieve a smooth and clacky feel when typing, as well as enhancing its shock resistance compared to other plastics. Conversely, the WS POM+ employs POM for its top housing, known for producing a uniquely muted sound profile that is deeper than typical switch sounds. This divergence in materials suggests that while both switches aim for high performance and sound quality, they approach these goals through different technical means—allowing users of the WS POM+ to experience a more subdued, yet satisfying auditory response.

In examining the bottom housing materials, the differences remain evident. The Caramel Latte incorporates Nylon for its bottom housing, which is revered for its sound-absorbing qualities and ability to generate a fuller, rounder sound profile. The softness of Nylon contributes to a more muted acoustics experience when typing, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a POM bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing, provides a previously noted pleasing, deeper sound, albeit with less of the softness that Nylon offers. This means that while both switches may deliver deep and satisfying acoustic experiences, the Caramel Latte's Nylon bottom adds a unique layer of sound absorption and warmth that is distinct from the POM sound profile.

Overall, while both the Huano Caramel Latte and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ strive for excellence in their design, the variations in their housing materials result in different tactile and acoustic experiences for the user. If the two switches were to be combined with consistent housing materials across both top and bottom sections, one could expect a blend of textures and sounds that could yield similar performance metrics. However, in their current configurations, the Caramel Latte's use of POK and Nylon results in a dynamic, clacky feel served by durability, whereas the WS POM+ offers a more muted, cohesive sound characterized by the unyielding nature of POM—a testament to their respective engineering and sound design philosophies.

Weight

The Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch exhibit identical specifications in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, with both switches requiring 45 grams to actuate and bottoming out at 55 grams. This similarity means that users will experience nearly the same typing and gaming performance, as they will both register keystrokes with the same lightness and experience a consistent bottoming out sensation. Given their medium-light characteristics, both switches are suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. For those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel, neither switch would deliver the heavier push experience they seek. Overall, users can expect similar results regarding actuation and bottom out performance from both the Caramel Latte and the WS POM+ switches.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users will experience a similar key feel when pressing down on either switch. This equal travel distance allows for comparable performance in typing and gaming scenarios, providing a consistent experience across both switch types. Since they are identical in this regard, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and tactile feedback, making either option a suitable choice for those who prefer a linear switch with this specific travel distance.

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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 switch is characterized by its bright and clacky profile, giving off a sharp, crisp sound that resonates with a lively energy. This high-pitched and percussive sound can make your typing experience feel more engaging and dynamic. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch has a deeper, thocky sound signature, producing a rich, low-pitched tone that offers a more satisfying auditory feedback. The subdued nature of its sound also contributes to a less intrusive typing experience, making it suitable for quieter environments where volume control is appreciated. Consequently, while both switches can create an enjoyable auditory feedback during use, the Caramel Latte leans towards a more energetic and bright sound, whereas the WS POM+ provides a deeply satisfying, bass-oriented sound.

In terms of feel, both switches are highly regarded for their smooth typing experiences. The Caramel Latte excels with a silky feel that minimizes resistance, enabling quick and effortless keystrokes. The level of smoothness is designed to enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that every key press feels enjoyable. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch also boasts a silky feel but is further described as buttery, indicating a seamless and uniform typing sensation. This fluid experience can make lengthy typing sessions feel less strenuous and more pleasurable. Overall, both switches aim to provide exceptional smoothness, making them optimal choices for users who prioritize a refined feeling beneath their fingers.

Combining these qualities, users can expect different auditory and tactile experiences from the Huano Caramel Latte and Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Caramel Latte stands out with its bright, clacky sound and silky typing feel, providing an energetic and responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ offers a deeper, thocky sound coupled with an equally smooth, buttery feel, catering to those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback paired with effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a lively, crisp sound with smoothness or a richer, bass-heavy tone with a buttery typing experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the Huano Caramel Latte linear switches and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches, consider your personal preferences regarding sound and typing experience. If you enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile that provides a sharp, crisp auditory feedback with every keystroke, the Caramel Latte will suit you well. They offer a silky-smooth feel, making typing a pleasure, especially for those who favor a more lively and engaging sound signature while they type. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more satisfying "thock" sound and a buttery smooth keystroke, the WS POM+ is likely the better option. Their low-pitched, thocky profile delivers a rich auditory experience, ideal for users who appreciate a more subdued and bass-heavy feedback. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you lean towards a bright and percussive sound or a mellow and satisfying thock, as both switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience at the same bottom-out force.

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