Kailh Box Royal vs. HMX Caramel Pudding

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Caramel Pudding present two distinct options tailored to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box Royal, recognized for its sharp and binary tactility, delivers a pronounced tactile feedback that appeals to those who relish a more aggressive typing experience. Its relatively high-pitched sound profile adds an audibly satisfying element, making each keystroke feel deliberate and responsive. In contrast, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches offer a completely different typing experience, characterized by their smooth action and resonant, clacky sound signature. Ideal for users who prefer a quieter yet still expressive typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switches provide an exquisitely seamless feel that enhances typing speed and comfort. While both switches cater to unique preferences—tactile feedback versus smoothness—your choice will depend on the kind of feedback and sound profile you find most satisfying. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box Royal and HMX Caramel Pudding switches both utilize nylon for their housing materials, which positively influences the sound produced during typing. As nylon is inherently a softer plastic compared to alternatives, both switches are engineered to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic of nylon minimizes the amount of noise by absorbing sound waves, resulting in a more subdued and round tone. Thus, regardless of any other differences in their designs, both switches ensure a typing experience that prioritizes acoustic comfort and expressiveness due to the shared properties of their nylon components.

When comparing the specific housings of the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Caramel Pudding, it remains noteworthy that both switches feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This uniformity means that each element of the switch contributes equally to the overall sound profile, as there are no contrasting materials at play. The sound produced while typing on these switches will share similarities; any shifts in tonality and resonance will be minimal, as both the top and bottom housings work synergistically. This results in consistent acoustic outcomes, reinforcing the experience characterized by a full, rich auditory feedback while typing.

However, the impact of the nylon housing on user experience is nuanced depending on where the material is located in the switch assembly. Given that both the Kailh Box Royal and HMX Caramel Pudding switches share identical top and bottom housing materials, the sound produced upon actuation will reflect the same qualities. Although the overall results are similar, the tactile differences may manifest more vividly during play or heavy typing sessions, where the interaction of the switch's elements during bottom-out and release could be experienced differently due to variations in design outside the housing material.

Weight

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch present an interesting contrast in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches boast the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar level of effort when pressing down to register a keystroke. However, the comparison diverges when it comes to their bottom out forces. The Box Royal's bottom out force is notably heavier at 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users prefer for its tactile feedback and resistance. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding, with a bottom out force of 52 grams, is lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. As such, those looking for a more gradual, softer feedback might opt for the Caramel Pudding, while those who appreciate a firmer push should choose the Box Royal.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. With identical travel distances, users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys, which can enhance the overall typing experience. This consistency in travel distance means that neither switch offers a distinct advantage in this specific aspect, allowing for comparable performance in terms of key actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Kailh Box Royal and the HMX Caramel Pudding switches, the differences are quite pronounced. The Box Royal produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp upon actuation. This sound makes it ideal for typists who prefer a more defined auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature that can evoke a more playful and lively typing experience. While the Box Royal's sound leans towards being piercingly acute, the Caramel Pudding offers a richer auditory experience that some users may find more satisfying.

In terms of tactile feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch stands out with its sharp and responsive tactile bump. These switches provide a highly pronounced feedback intensity, ensuring that typists can easily feel the actuation point with each press, making them perfect for those who appreciate strong tactile sensations. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Caramel Pudding switches is noted for its smoothness, creating a gliding effect that facilitates fluid and uninterrupted keystrokes. While the Box Royal is all about that engaging tactile feedback, the Caramel Pudding excels in delivering an effortlessly smooth typing experience, appealing to users who prioritize a more linear feel.

Considering all the available information, the decision between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. If you prefer sharp, high-pitched sound profiles and an aggressive tactile feedback, the Box Royal would be your best bet. Conversely, if you enjoy a smooth typing experience coupled with a resonant clack, the Caramel Pudding switches are likely to provide the satisfaction you seek. Both can deliver compelling typing experiences, but they do so in distinctly different ways, catering to varied preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between Kailh Box Royal tactile switches and HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you seek a pronounced and aggressive tactile feedback, the Box Royals are an excellent choice, especially for typists who enjoy a distinctive, sharp tactile bump that provides clear tactile and auditory cues with each keystroke. Their medium-heavy resistance of 70 grams is ideal for those who prefer a more robust typing experience that reduces accidental key presses. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, quieter, and overall lighter typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switches with their medium-light resistance of 52 grams are tailor-made for you. They deliver an exceptionally smooth keystroke combined with a resonant, clacky sound that enhances your auditory enjoyment while typing or gaming. In summary, choose the Box Royal for a tactile, feedback-rich experience, whereas the Caramel Pudding serves those who appreciate smoothness and a less forceful engagement. Your ideal switch will reflect not just how you type, but also what auditory and tactile sensations you find most satisfying in your keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more