Aflion Blush vs. HMX Caramel Pudding
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and the HMX Caramel Pudding are two compelling linear options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Blush is celebrated for its impressively smooth and snappy feel, thanks to its longer two-stage spring and long pole design, which culminates in a delightful poppy sound signature characterized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery. This makes it a great choice for those who prioritize a clean, satisfying keystroke that enhances typing speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky sound profile, providing a distinctly engaging auditory feedback. They also promise an exquisitely smooth typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a bit of character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer their own benefits, catering to different preferences and styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's perfect for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the HMX Caramel Pudding, we can see significant differences in their top housing components, leading to unique auditory experiences. The Blush features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper and more defined sound. This construction lends itself to a clearer, more resonant auditory profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy an emphasized high-end sound quality during typing. The translucency of the polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually compelling in addition to being sonically distinct.
In contrast, the Caramel Pudding sports a nylon top housing, which introduces a softer and more mellow sound profile. Nylon, being a more elastic material, tends to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. This contrasts sharply with the sharp clarity of the Blush’s polycarbonate top. While the Blush might appeal to users seeking an articulate sound, the Caramel Pudding might be more suited for those who prefer a subdued and warm auditory atmosphere. This divergent approach to sound encompasses both the tactile feel and the auditory feedback delivered by the respective switches.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches leverage nylon for their bottom housings, creating a similarity in the resulting sound profile when the key is actuated fully. The nylon used in both models contributes to a similar "bottom-out" experience, absorbing noise and providing a softer thud with each keystroke. This means that while typing on either switch, users can expect a pleasing resonance as they reach the end of the switch travel. Overall, whether one prefers the crispness of the Blush or the warmth of the Caramel Pudding, both offer unique advantages while sharing common ground through the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Blush switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 52 grams. This indicates that the Blush switch is the heavier option, providing a firmer feel when bottoming out, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding's lighter actuation force makes it more suitable for those who favor extended typing sessions or gaming without the strain of a heavier push. Ultimately, while both switches offer medium to medium-light experiences, the Blush will feel heavier overall, especially at the point of bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Aflion Blush features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Caramel Pudding measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This difference signifies that the Blush switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker responsiveness in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding provides a more substantial travel distance, catering to those who prefer a deeper tactile experience in their typing. This preference for switch type ultimately depends on individual ergonomic needs and typing styles; shorter distances allow for faster key actuation, while longer ones can facilitate a more satisfying, deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Blush and HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches, notable differences emerge. The Blush switch produces a low-pitched sound, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that creates a pleasant auditory experience while typing. This resonant quality makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more subdued sound signature. In contrast, the sound description for the Caramel Pudding is currently unknown.
In terms of feel, the Blush switch is celebrated for its impressively smooth typing experience, characterized by descriptors such as creamy, silky, and buttery. This unique combination results in a typing sensation that feels effortless and fluid, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Such a tactile experience contributes to reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, no specific feel descriptors for the Caramel Pudding have been provided, leaving its tactile experience undetermined.
In summary, the Aflion Blush linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound and an incredibly smooth typing feel. Its longer, two-stage spring enhances both the auditory and tactile experience, making it an appealing choice for users seeking those qualities. Conversely, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch showcases an unknown sound profile while its tactile feel remains unspecified. If the Caramel Pudding were to provide an equally satisfying experience, it would mirror the strengths of the Blush in delivering smoothness, creating a similar, enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're seeking a switch that offers a snappy, responsive feel combined with a low-pitched sound signature, the Aflion Blush is your strong choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams allows for a controlled yet satisfying experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of weight in their keystrokes while still achieving that creamy, silky sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more resonant and clacky auditory feedback, the HMX Caramel Pudding might be your go-to. With its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, it provides an exquisitely smooth typing experience that appeals to users who value a vibrant sound profile. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prioritize a more robust feel and sound with the Blush or a lighter and more lively experience with the Caramel Pudding.
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