Akko Rosewood vs. Huano Strawberry Latte

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Rosewood and Huano Strawberry Latte both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences among users. The Rosewood switch is celebrated for its deep, satisfying "thocky" sound, enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubricant that ensures a smooth typing experience right out of the box. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte switches from Huano are known for their exceptional smoothness, resulting from the latest molds, and they provide a balanced sound profile that strikes a sweet spot between being too quiet and overly resonant. While the Rosewood may be ideal for users who appreciate an auditory and tactile feedback while typing, the Strawberry Latte is perfect for those who prioritize a quieter yet equally satisfying experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Akko Rosewood Linear

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and Huano Strawberry Latte switches exhibit both similarities and key differences that influence their overall performance. Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer plastic properties absorb more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded audio experience when typing. This shared use of nylon contributes to the switches' overall acoustic character, ensuring a consistent sound performance whether one is using the Rosewood or Strawberry Latte. Consequently, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the typing experience, leading to a satisfying tactile response across both switches that is complemented by the nylon’s sound-dampening qualities.

In contrast, the top housings of these two switches utilize different materials that affect their respective sound profiles. The Rosewood employs a nylon top housing, similar to its bottom, while the Strawberry Latte utilizes POK material. Although nylon provides a rounded sound experience, the POK material offers unique advantages in terms of durability and smoothness. With POK's impressive wear resistance and shock absorption capabilities surpassing those of nylon, the Strawberry Latte excels in providing a more responsive and clacky typing experience. This difference adds a unique acoustic signature to the Strawberry Latte, contrasting with the fuller, muddier tones of the Rosewood. Users may find that the sound produced while releasing a key on the Strawberry Latte is more pronounced and crisp compared to the subsiding tone emanating from the Rosewood.

Overall, while both the Akko Rosewood and Huano Strawberry Latte share nylon as their bottom housing material, their top housing materials introduce distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Rosewood communicates a deep and rich soundscape thanks to its consistent use of nylon throughout, emphasizing warmth and a muted expression. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte's POK top housing allows for a sharper and clearer sound profile, affording a more dynamic and engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, the combination of these materials dictates the unique interplay of acoustic qualities attributed to each switch, and users may choose between the deeper, fuller tones of the Rosewood or the smooth, clacky responsiveness of the Strawberry Latte based on their preferred typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options for prolonged typing sessions. The Rosewood features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry Latte has a slightly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Strawberry Latte is lighter overall, providing a more effortless typing experience, while the Rosewood offers a slightly heavier push that some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Despite the differences in force, both switches allow for a gentle typing experience, which can be advantageous for extended use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, the Akko Rosewood measures 4 mm, while the Huano Strawberry Latte has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Rosewood offers a more traditional and deeper feel when pressed, which might appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial key press. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Strawberry Latte could provide quicker actuation, making it an appealing choice for gamers who seek fast response times. Ultimately, those preferring a more responsive experience may favor the Strawberry Latte, whereas users who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes may opt for the longer travel of the Rosewood.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Rosewood linear switches produce a deep, satisfying thock that many enthusiasts find particularly appealing. This rich auditory feedback is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which helps minimize noise without sacrificing character. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches offer a more balanced sound profile; they are neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant. This makes them versatile, fitting into a variety of setups without drawing too much attention while still maintaining a pleasing auditory presence.

When it comes to feel, the Rosewood switches are known for their smooth linear action, providing a consistently enjoyable typing experience with minimal resistance or tactile bumps. This makes them ideal for those who favor a fluid typing motion. In comparison, the Strawberry Latte switches are also recognized for their exceptional smoothness, benefiting from the latest mold technology from Huano. Both switches prioritize a seamless linear feel, which is ideal for typists who prefer a straightforward and uninterrupted keystroke.

Overall, both the Akko Rosewood and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches provide compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking smooth performance and satisfying sound profiles. While the Rosewood leans towards a deeper sound with its thocky character, the Strawberry Latte offers a more versatile sound that can complement various keyboard builds. Both switches promise smooth keystrokes, making them excellent choices for users looking to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, personal preference in sound and the desired typing feel will be key factors in choosing between these two impressive switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you favor a deeper, thocky sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience, the Rosewood switch may be your ideal choice, with its unique factory-applied lubricant enhancing its acoustic appeal. Additionally, with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Rosewood can offer a bit more resistance, which might suit you if you prefer a firmer tactile experience. Conversely, if you prioritize smoothness and want a quieter typing experience with a balanced sound profile that isn’t overly resonant, the Strawberry Latte would be more suitable. Its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams facilitates rapid key presses, making it an excellent option for gamers or typists who enjoy quick, agile movements. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only the desired sound and feel but also the specific typing or gaming style you engage in most often.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more