HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Cheese provide distinctly appealing options for enthusiasts who appreciate linear switches. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing experience, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switches offer an unparalleled smoothness along with a poppy and crispy sound, appealing especially to users who prefer ultra-light switches, as they are lighter than 90% of all switches available. While both switches deliver unique tactile sensations and sound profiles, their differences place them at varying ends of user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Cheese share notable similarities in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This consistency in material choice is significant as nylon is recognized for its capacity to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Both products are designed to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, which results in a distinctively duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, users of either switch can expect a satisfying tactile feedback accompanied by a rich acoustic quality, thanks to the inherent characteristics of nylon.
While both the Caramel Pudding and Cheese share identical materials in their housings, their functional interplay is particularly interesting. The design dictates that the bottom housing is primarily responsible for the sound and feel experienced when a key is bottomed out, whereas the top housing influences the sound produced when the key is released. Despite their shared nylon construction, this division of responsibilities allows each switch to create a nuanced experience, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Consequently, both switches deliver a cohesive performance that aligns with the soft, acoustic-friendly properties of nylon, but the specific sound characteristics may vary based on the housing's positional impact.
Ultimately, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Cheese ensures that users receive a similar auditory experience, albeit with slight variations based on key actuation dynamics. The thoughtful consideration of how each part contributes to the sensory outcome means that both switches capitalize on the advantages of nylon, allowing for an enriched typing experience with minimal disruption between the two models. This shared material strategy fosters a collaborative effect, culminating in a delightful interaction with the keyboard that typists are sure to appreciate, whether they choose the Caramel Pudding or the Cheese.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, we can observe a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Cheese switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lower bottom out force of 46 grams, qualifying it as light. This difference makes the Cheese a better choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Meanwhile, the Caramel Pudding offers a slightly stronger feel, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches provide distinct tactile sensations and weights, the Cheese switch allows for a gentler keystroke, while the Caramel Pudding encourages a firmer push.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm means that the Caramel Pudding offers a bit more depth when pressed, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Conversely, the Cheese switch’s shorter travel distance can provide gamers or users seeking quicker response times with a more immediate feedback experience. Ultimately, if someone prioritizes responsiveness, the Cheese switch is the more suitable choice, while those who prefer a heartier typing depth might lean towards the Caramel Pudding switch due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
The HMX Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky sound signature, which adds a distinctive auditory appeal to your typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Cheese switches also feature a clacky sound but are characterized by a poppy and crispy quality, making them feel a bit more dynamic during use. Both switches share a clackiness, but the Cheese may come across as brighter and sharper, likely due to their ultra-light design, which could amplify the acoustic properties. Ultimately, while both switches produce satisfying sounds, the specific frequency and energy of those sounds can differ based on various factors, including your keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches deliver an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making them comfortable for prolonged sessions. Conversely, the Cheese switches are also noted for their unparalleled smoothness but with an ultra-light actuation force that enhances the tactile feedback and responsiveness. This lighter feel can make them particularly appealing for fast typists or gamers who enjoy quick, effortless keystrokes. Overall, while both switches provide a smooth typing experience, the Cheese may cater more to those who prefer a lighter touch, whereas the Caramel Pudding could suit those who appreciate a slightly more substantial feel.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Cheese linear switches offer distinct yet appealing sound and feel characteristics. While the Caramel Pudding focuses on a resonant clack with an exceptionally smooth typing sensation, the Cheese switches provide a poppy sound and ultra-light actuation complemented by similar smoothness. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both options will deliver satisfying results, but the slight differences could be significant for someone who is particular about the auditory feedback and tactile experience they seek in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, your choice should ultimately depend on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you favor a medium-light actuation force with a clacky and resonant sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switch is an excellent choice. Its smooth typing experience is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of tactile feedback and auditory pleasure. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that offers an unparalleled smoothness and a crisper sound profile, the HMX Cheese switch will likely suit you better. With its light actuation force and poppy sound, it's perfect for users who prioritize speed and a unique auditory experience. By considering your typing style and the type of feedback you enjoy, you’ll be able to choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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