Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Caramel Pudding
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Caramel Pudding both present compelling options for fans of linear switches, but they cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is renowned for its remarkably light actuation force of just 37g, offering an effortless typing experience that many users find appealing, especially those who prefer a lighter touch. This switch also produces a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, adding a distinctive auditory element that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its smooth typing feel and resonant clacky sound, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a more solid feedback without sacrificing the ease of use characteristic of linear switches. While both switches offer engaging sound profiles and smooth keystrokes, your choice may ultimately depend on whether you prioritize the ultra-light touch of the Aqua or the satisfying solidity of the Caramel Pudding. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and HMX Caramel Pudding switches showcase the use of distinct materials in their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles and overall performance. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. The translucency of this material also makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination to shine through. In contrast, the HMX Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. As nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, it results in a more muted and rounded auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material choice sets the two switches apart in the auditory characteristics they deliver.
While the top housings of the two switches differ, both the Dareu Aqua and HMX Caramel Pudding share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality provides an interesting point of comparison, as both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile from their bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon ensures that both switches can absorb sound more effectively, which contributes to a more muted bottom-out sound when keys are pressed. In this regard, both switches can offer a similarly satisfying acoustics experience when it comes to the tactile feedback and sound produced during typing, despite their differing top materials.
When considering the overall sound and typing experience, it's essential to recognize that the unique blend of housings in these switches results in varying performances. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing excels in enhancing clarity and brightness, especially when RGB lighting is factored in, while the Caramel Pudding's nylon top housing ensures a warmer, more subdued sound profile. However, both switches will have a similar bottom-out sound due to their nylon bottom housing, which emphasizes the fullness and depth of each keystroke. Thus, while they may differ in upper housing materials, the combination of housing materials ultimately allows both switches to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience, appealing to different preferences in the keyboard enthusiast community.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch with the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, we see distinct differences in actuation forces that influence user experience. The Aqua switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it lighter, which is ideal for those who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. While the bottom out force of the Aqua switch remains unknown, the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which further emphasizes its heavier resistance. Therefore, users seeking a keyboard that is easier on the fingers over long periods would benefit from the Aqua switch, while those who prefer a more pronounced push may opt for the Caramel Pudding. Overall, the Aqua switch provides a lighter experience compared to the heavier Caramel Pudding switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Aqua switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that provides a deeper and potentially more satisfying keystroke. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time, especially in gaming scenarios. This shorter travel distance can result in faster actuation, making it suitable for users who prioritize speed over depth. Thus, if you appreciate a more pronounced keypress, the Aqua switch would be the preferable choice, while the Caramel Pudding caters to those who favor brisk, rapid keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The HMX Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding for $2.99.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique acoustic experience characterized by both a chirpy quality and a clacky signature. The chirp adds a playful element with a slight squeak, while the clack delivers a sharp, snappy response that is crisp and percussive. This distinctive sound can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is known for its resonant clack, making it equally appealing for users who prefer a clacky sound signature. While the Caramel Pudding's exact acoustic characteristics aren't specified, it is likely to offer a pleasing auditory feedback that matches the engaging soundscape provided by the Aqua. Both switches' sound profiles will ultimately be influenced by factors like keyboard construction and keycap materials, which would allow users to indirectly achieve similar results.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is celebrated for its easy-to-press nature, which requires only a light 37g actuation force. This light resistance contributes to a low-impact typing experience, greatly reducing finger fatigue and enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions. The Aqua’s feathery touch further emphasizes how effortless typing can be, making it suitable for various use cases such as gaming, work, or school assignments. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Caramel Pudding switches is not mentioned in your information, leaving an unknown regarding its tactile characteristics. Nonetheless, it’s common for quality linear switches to prioritize smoothness and consistency in feel, similar to the Aqua, which may ensure users can expect a satisfying typing experience.
Considering all the provided information, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of sound and feel that caters to those seeking lightness and a distinctive auditory experience. The chirpy and clacky sounds, paired with an easy-to-press action, make it a compelling choice for many. Meanwhile, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, while lacking specific details about its tactile qualities, is known for its resonant clack, suggesting a focus on auditory feedback as well. Overall, both switches present appealing features, particularly in sound, which can enhance the typing experience, while considerations around feel remain largely dependent on the user's preferences and the user interface context.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Aqua and HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches should largely depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and the kind of experience you seek in a keyboard. If you enjoy a lighter touch and prefer a keyboard that requires minimal effort during long typing sessions, the Aqua linear switch would be an excellent option, especially for tasks like gaming or prolonged writing where reducing finger fatigue is a priority. Its unique combination of a chirpy and clacky sound adds a lively character to your keystrokes, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial actuation feel with a satisfying resistance, the Caramel Pudding, with its medium-light bottom-out force, will provide you with a smoother typing experience that enhances your engagement with each keystroke. Moreover, while it may lack the distinct auditory characteristics of the Aqua, its smoothness and resonant clack offer a gratifying tactile experience. Ultimately, consider both your typing style and sound preferences to select the switch that will bring you the most enjoyment in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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