HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile. The HMX Caramel Pudding, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing experience and resonant, clacky sound signature, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, stands out with its distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile that provides audible feedback, paired with a creamy, tactile sensation, appealing to users who enjoy a lively typing experience. While the Caramel Pudding offers a straightforward and smooth interaction perfect for fast typists and gamers, the V3 Cream Blue Pro caters to those who relish the engaging, tactile feedback that enhances their typing rhythm. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, we find notable differences in their top housing composition. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, a material renowned for its softer texture, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon absorbs more sound, thereby producing a rounded and muted auditory experience. Conversely, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is rigid and translucent, leading to a sharper and crisper sound when typing. The use of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as its clarity allows for vibrant illumination through the switch.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we see a striking similarity: both the Caramel Pudding and the V3 Cream Blue Pro feature nylon bottom housings. This commonality ensures that the typing experience in terms of bottom-out feel and sound remains consistent across both models. Since nylon tends to create a duller and more rounded sound profile, the bottom housing's qualities will dominate this aspect of the sound signature in both switches. Therefore, typists can expect a similar auditory experience when bottoming out, regardless of which switch they choose.
Ultimately, the combined results of these materials highlight how the individual characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon contribute to the overall typing experience. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro’s polycarbonate top housing elevates its sound to a higher-pitched clarity, the nylon bottom ensures that both switches maintain a cohesive feel during the keypress. Users can look forward to similar bottom-out sound profiles with the Caramel Pudding due to its nylon bottom, while the differentiation in top housing materials delivers distinct auditory signatures. Thus, while the switches may differ in terms of sound clarity and aesthetics, they both accommodate a satisfying typing experience thanks to their well-considered housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force varies between the two: the Caramel Pudding reaches a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar typing experience for actuation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro requires a little more effort to bottom out, giving it a more substantial feel during use. Ultimately, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option overall, which might appeal to those looking for a softer experience ideal for long typing sessions, whereas the V3 Cream Blue Pro caters to users who prefer the tactile feedback and push of a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it is evident that they differ, with the Caramel Pudding boasting a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the V3 Cream Blue Pro at 3.3 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the longer option, which may appeal to users seeking a more pronounced keypress experience often preferred for typing or those who appreciate a deeper feel. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers looking for quicker response times, aligning with the trend of shorter travel distances for enhanced performance. Ultimately, your preference between these two switches will hinge on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more substantial depth in your keystrokes.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 switches exhibit a resonant, clacky sound signature that stands out when typing. This lively auditory feedback makes them quite engaging for users who appreciate the acoustic dimension of their keyboard experience. Similarly, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches also deliver a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, reminiscent of traditional typewriter keys, which can evoke a nostalgic typing sensation. Both switches embrace an audible feedback that enhances the typing experience, emphasizing a vibrant sound environment. It’s worth noting that the final sound perceived will also depend on the choice of keyboard build and keycap materials.
When discussing the feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are marked by their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses that can be particularly appealing for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches boast a blend of tactile features; they are characterized as medium tactile - providing just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. Additionally, they exhibit bouncy and snappy qualities, giving users a spring-like rebound with each key press that enhances responsiveness. The polished finish of these switches further contributes to a refined feel, allowing for smooth key travel and reduced friction. While the Caramel Pudding focuses on smoothness, the V3 Cream Blue Pro combines a variety of tactile sensations, creating a lively and dynamic typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches bring distinctively engaging attributes to a mechanical keyboard setup. While the Caramel Pudding excels in offering a smooth typing experience complemented by its clacky sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro presents a blend of tactile feedback with snappy and bouncy characteristics alongside a similarly clacky auditory profile. Depending on personal preference, users might find satisfaction in either switch type, as both allow for a fulfilling typing experience enriched by their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and your intended use. If you're leaning towards a typing experience that emphasizes smoothness and a resonant clack, with a medium-light force that feels effortless to press, the Caramel Pudding switch would be an excellent choice, especially for those who appreciate a quieter environment without sacrificing responsiveness. This switch excels in providing a serene typing experience, making it ideal for tasks that require sustained typing without noticeable fatigue. Conversely, if you are someone who enjoys audible feedback and the tactile sensation of a pronounced bump while typing, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is your go-to option. Its snappy and bouncy feel, coupled with a delightful poppy sound, creates an engaging and lively experience that can invigorate your typing routine. These switches are particularly suited for casual gamers and typists who thrive on a bit of acoustic and tactile delight. By understanding the unique characteristics of each switch, you can select the one that best enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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