HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing an exquisitely smooth typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g switches stand out with their light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a crisp, high-pitched sound that is particularly responsive. Each switch has its merits: the Caramel Pudding might appeal to users seeking a more dynamic sound and smooth feel, while the Chiikawa is ideal for those who prefer quick, light keystrokes accompanied by a lively acoustic feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g, a notable difference arises between their top housings. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon housing to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate also makes it ideal for enhanced RGB lighting effects, as it can better convey the vibrancy of the colors emitted.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, with both utilizing nylon. This similarity ensures that both the Caramel Pudding and the Chiikawa - 45g deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed down, as nylon's softer plastic quality absorbs sound effectively. This shared material in the bottom housing means that while the overall sound may vary during key release due to the different top materials, the bottom-out sound and feel will be more consistent across both switches, leaning towards that classic, mushy experience reinforced by the nylon.
The contrasting characteristics of the top housings ultimately produce distinct auditory experiences, yet the combination of nylon in the bottom housings helps create a unifying element between the two models. When typing or gaming, users can expect nuanced differences: the Caramel Pudding will deliver a weighy, rounded sound when keys are released, while the Chiikawa - 45g will provide a sharper, more resonant sound. The interaction of these materials ensures that each switch provides a unique tactile experience, appealing to various preferences while maintaining certain acoustic qualities due to the nylon base.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initiating the keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Caramel Pudding having a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Chiikawa comes in at 51 grams. This means that the Caramel Pudding requires a very slightly greater force to bottom out compared to the Chiikawa. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, which makes them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. In terms of typing experience, the Caramel Pudding may feel marginally heavier when fully pressed down, while the Chiikawa offers a slightly lighter bottom out experience. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing feel will gravitate towards both options, though the Caramel Pudding provides a bit more resistance for those who enjoy a more substantial push.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch both share an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, leading to similar performance in terms of key actuation and responsiveness. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will offer an equivalent feel when typing or gaming, making either option suitable for those who prefer a linear switch with a consistent actuation depth.
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 Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g for $3.29.
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 HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is known for its resonant, clacky sound signature. This characteristic gives it a certain presence that can make typing feel more engaging and tactile. On the other hand, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch features a bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound that complements its responsive nature. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, it’s important to remember that the overall sound can be influenced by the specific keyboard build, including the choice of the board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is notable for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses without any tactile resistance. The Chiikawa - 45g switch, with its lighter actuation force, is also designed to be notably responsive, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch. While both switches aim for a smooth experience, the Chiikawa’s light actuation may cater more to users looking for less resistance during typing, whereas the Caramel Pudding might resonate with those appreciating a more balanced feel.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switches offer distinct advantages in terms of sound and feel. The Caramel Pudding provides a resonant clack with a smooth typing feel, while the Chiikawa switches deliver a bright sound and responsive light touch. Depending on your preferences—be it for a more pronounced auditory response or a lighter actuation—you'll find noteworthy qualities in each switch that can enhance your typing experience. If you prefer one over the other, you can anticipate different sensations and sounds, which ultimately showcase the diversity and personalization available within the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, you'll want to consider your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you're seeking. If you appreciate a clacky sound signature paired with an exquisitely smooth typing feel, the Caramel Pudding is likely the better choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams offers a satisfying tactile feedback that’s ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced auditory and kinetic experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more responsive switch that offers a crisp, bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g with its light actuation force of 51 grams may be more suitable. This switch excels in quick, nimble typing, making it an excellent option for those who type rapidly or who value a light touch. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the sensory experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard.
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