HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switches can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth feel, making them an exceptional choice for users who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switches offer a distinct take on linear switches, characterized by their higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel that appeals to those who prefer a more subtle aural experience. While both switches provide a satisfying linear feel, the Caramel Pudding emphasizes a more pronounced sound profile, whereas the CJ leans towards a chirpier and neutral auditory experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two mechanical switch options comes down to your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron CJ switches feature distinctly different housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which is noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience when compared to harder plastics. This characteristic makes the Caramel Pudding switches conducive for users seeking a more muted and rich auditory feedback during typing.
In contrast, the Gateron CJ switches employ a unique combination of INK blend for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing. While the INK blend top housing is designed to produce a contrasting high-pitched and clacky sound, the POM bottom housing contributes a deeper and more muted sound profile. This separation of materials allows for a more pronounced differentiation between the top and bottom-out sounds—with the INK blend elevating the audio experience during key release while the POM sustains a pleasant depth when bottoming out. As a result, the sound profile of the CJ switches is characterized by a sharper quality, which may cater to typists who favor a more stimulating auditory experience.
Despite the differences in materials and sound profiles, both switches provide unique sensory experiences thanks to their respective housing compositions. The Caramel Pudding achieves its rounded sound through the uniformity of nylon in both housings, resulting in a cohesive and consistent auditory feedback. Conversely, the Gateron CJ switches utilize a strategic combination of INK and POM to create a richer auditory spectrum—balancing the deeper sound from the POM bottom with the higher pitch from the INK top. Ultimately, while the two switches employ different materials, the interaction of these properties ensures that typists can still achieve satisfying and distinctive auditory experiences with each switch.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces are notable. The Caramel Pudding has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron CJ requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger push during typing. The disparity in both the actuation and bottom out forces indicates that the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, while the Gateron CJ offers a heavier experience. Overall, if one prefers a more delicate touch, the Caramel Pudding is ideal, while the Gateron CJ caters to those seeking a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference indicates that the Caramel Pudding may be more appealing to gamers or those who appreciate faster response times due to its shorter travel, which allows for quicker actuation. In contrast, the CJ switch, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel, providing a more substantial depth when pressing the key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding speed and typing sensation, with the Caramel Pudding offering a more responsive experience, while the CJ provides a more traditional and hearty typing feel.
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 Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 switch features a resonant, clacky sound profile that gives it a lively acoustic presence, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron CJ offers a more varied sound experience, with higher-pitched clacks and even a chirpy quality that adds a unique layer to its auditory signature. While the CJ also provides a neutral sound, its low-pitched and thocky characteristics create a mellow experience that is both deep and satisfying. Thus, while the Caramel Pudding excites with its clack, the CJ offers a more diverse range of sounds, depending on the situation and the user's mood.
On the tactile front, the Caramel Pudding is noted for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes that many users crave in a linear switch. The Gateron CJ, on the other hand, is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable for users at varying skill levels. This means that while both switches offer smoothness, the Caramel Pudding may deliver slightly more pronounced feedback, while the CJ enhances comfort and versatility through its softer, more balanced feel.
In summary, if you're considering either the HMX Caramel Pudding or the Gateron CJ linear switch, you can expect two distinct yet enjoyable experiences. The Caramel Pudding carries a vibrant sound profile with a super smooth typing action, ideal for those who like an audible typing experience. The Gateron CJ, alternatively, presents a chirpy and more varied acoustic palette, coupled with a mild feel that makes it accessible to many. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, both will deliver enjoyable results in their own ways, ultimately making it a matter of personal choice rather than outright superiority.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch should largely depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as well as the intended use case. If you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force for a more effortless typing experience, combined with a resonant, clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding would be an excellent choice, particularly if you enjoy a smoother typing feel. This switch excels in casual environments and can add a lively atmosphere to your workspace. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a bit more resistance with its medium force—leading to a solid feel while typing—the Gateron CJ might be the better option. Its higher-pitched clacks and unique chirpy sound deliver an engaging auditory experience, which might appeal more to those who enjoy a balance of responsiveness without going overboard on sound intensity. Ultimately, both switches cater to different aesthetics and preferences; choosing one over the other will depend on whether you value a softer, more relaxed typing feel or a firmer, more dynamic experience.
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