Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the nuances between options can significantly impact your typing experience. The Huano Strawberry Latte and Gateron Type S, both linear switches, offer distinct attributes that cater to different preferences among users. The Strawberry Latte boasts super smooth operation thanks to its latest molds, delivering a balanced sound profile that strikes a comfortable middle ground—not too quiet, yet not overly resonant. Conversely, the Gateron Type S, part of the innovative "Project Rehash" series, is celebrated for its weightier 65g bottom-out force and its neutral, subdued acoustic signature achieved through contemporary factory lubing techniques; it provides a satisfying tactile sensation that appeals to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. While the Strawberry Latte provides a smooth and balanced typing experience, the Gateron Type S offers a weightier feel and deeper sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Gateron Type S, a distinct difference in the top housing becomes evident. The Strawberry Latte employs a POK top housing, which is known for its superior strength and durability, boasting a coefficient of friction of 0.04, making it one of the smoothest materials available. In contrast, the Type S utilizes a traditional nylon top housing, which, while classic and effective, results in a distinct sound and tactile experience that differs from the POK material. This difference influences not only the switch's feel but also the acoustic properties as the POK's hardness can contribute to a brighter, more responsive sound, while the nylon produces a deeper, dampened profile.
Despite these differences in their top housings, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a unique synergy. The nylon used in both the Strawberry Latte and Type S contributes to a fuller sound profile due to its soft and sound-absorbing characteristics. This commonality means that, when either switch is pressed, the bottom housing's material will elicit a consistently deep and rounded sound irrespective of the top housing. This shared element ensures that while the actuation and release sounds may differ due to the top housing, the auditory experience upon bottoming out remains rich and somewhat uniform across both switches.
Ultimately, the dual-material composition across both switches leads to a distinct separation of sound profiles and tactile feedback. The POK material of the Strawberry Latte enhances its responsiveness and smoothness during actuation, while the nylon contributes to a softer sound and tactile experience when the key is released. Conversely, the Type S’s nylon top housing creates a more mellow sound upon actuation, establishing a contrast in auditory feedback. However, since both share the same nylon bottom, users can expect similar results in the bottoming-out experience, fostering an interesting comparison of versatility and performance between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, notable differences arise. The Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable option for extended typing sessions or gaming, as its lower resistance reduces fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Type S has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a tactile experience. As a result, those seeking a lighter switch will gravitate towards the Strawberry Latte, while users who enjoy a firmer push will likely find the Type S more satisfying. Overall, the discrepancies in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the varied preferences among users, ensuring there's a suitable choice for both lighter and heavier switch enthusiasts.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we find distinct differences. The Huano Strawberry Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type S measures 4 mm. This means that the Gateron Type S offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more traditional feel and a deeper tactile experience when typing. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Latte may provide a more responsive sensation, which is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, those who prioritize quicker actuation might opt for the Strawberry Latte due to its shorter distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial depth might lean toward the Gateron Type S.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
The Gateron Type S 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch offers a balanced auditory experience that sits comfortably between being overly quiet and too resonant. This makes it versatile for various environments, ensuring that it won’t be distracting while still providing a satisfying acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, which manages a pleasant and deeper acoustic presence, complemented by a subdued tone when pressed. The Type S is designed to cater to a range of users, making it suitable for both home and office settings without being obtrusive. While both switches aim for a balanced sound experience, the Strawberry Latte leans slightly more towards a lively tone, whereas the Type S emphasizes a more muted approach.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Huano Strawberry Latte is recognized for its super smooth operation, achieved through the latest manufacturing techniques from Huano. This smoothness is significant for typists and gamers alike, as it allows for rapid and fluid keystrokes. In comparison, the Gateron Type S has not been explicitly described, but given its factory lubing and a bottom-out weight of 65g, it likely offers a more substantial feedback that provides a weightier feel under the fingers. This can contribute to a different tactile experience, especially for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing or gaming. Although the specifics of the Type S’s feel remain a mystery, both switches are engineered to deliver a satisfying tactile response tailored for various preferences.
In conclusion, both the Huano Strawberry Latte and Gateron Type S linear switches provide satisfying sound and feel, albeit in slightly differing manners. The Strawberry Latte is characterized by its smoothness and balanced sound profile, making it approachable for users looking for a versatile switch. In contrast, the Type S stands out with its weightier bottom-out and deeper acoustic experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile presence. While the subjective qualities may not be identical, users can expect enjoyable experiences from either switch, making them solid choices for anyone diving into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, your choice should depend primarily on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams and are looking for a super smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Latte is ideal for you. Its balanced sound profile makes it suitable for both quiet settings and those where a little bit of sound is welcomed. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier keystroke and a more pronounced acoustic presence, the Gateron Type S with its 65-gram bottom-out force will cater to that desire, offering a deeper and more neutral sound signature that is versatile enough for home or office use. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother feel or a more tactile and weighted action; both switches excel in providing reliable performance, but your individual typing style will guide your best choice.
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