HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Dolphin offer distinct experiences tailored to varying typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an appealing choice for gamers and typists who enjoy auditory feedback along with a seamless keypress. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switches stand out with their silent operation, making them an excellent choice for office environments or shared workspaces where noise levels must be kept in check. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, the Dolphins provide a satisfying resistance that appeals to those who prefer a switch that feels substantial during use. While both switches fall under the category of linear switches, they cater to different needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Dolphin switches present a notable contrast in their sound profiles and construction characteristics. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. This softer plastic effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic signature that is often preferred by users seeking a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its rigidity. This stiffer plastic produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. Thus, while the Caramel Pudding aims for a more subdued auditory experience, the Dolphin emphasizes brightness and clarity.
Interestingly, both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings, which contributes to a commonality in their acoustic outcomes. The nylon bottom of the Caramel Pudding, like that of the Dolphin, impacts the overall tone by absorbing sound and fostering the same deeper and fuller sound experience for the user. This suggests that while the top housings differ significantly, the nylon bottom housing functions similarly in both cases, creating a cohesive base sound profile that aligns with the characteristics of each respective top housing. When engaged, both switches will yield a notably rounder sound primarily influenced by the nylon bottom, despite the contrasting qualities of their top housings.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials illustrates how housing construction significantly shapes user experience. The varied sound profiles generated by the nylon and polycarbonate top housings highlight how different materials can create unique auditory sensations, while the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to consistent acoustic warmth across both switches. Users of the Caramel Pudding may appreciate the softer feedback and muffled typing experience, whereas those who opt for the Dolphin will favor the sharper, crisper response enhanced by its polycarbonate top. This duality showcases how varying material choices cater to different typing preferences while achieving similar foundational results through the common use of nylon below.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Durock Dolphin linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Dolphin has a bottom out force of 62 grams, but its actuation force is unspecified, which leaves a gap in direct comparison. This suggests that the dolphin may potentially feel heavier during typing, depending on its actuation characteristics. Consequently, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter switch overall, appealing to users who prefer less resistance for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dolphin, with its higher bottom out force, likely caters to those who desire a more substantial typing experience, even if its exact actuation force remains unknown. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch will gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, while those preferring a heavier feel might consider the Dolphin, assuming its actuation force aligns with the bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, we find that the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dolphin has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Dolphin offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing keys, promoting a greater sense of depth during typing. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as the reduced travel allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you gravitate toward a more immediate feedback from your keystrokes, the Caramel Pudding would be the better choice, whereas the Dolphin might suit those who appreciate a more deliberate press.
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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch produces a resonant and clacky audio profile that adds an engaging presence to your typing experience. This clacky sound can be quite satisfying for enthusiasts who appreciate the auditory feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock Dolphin linear switch is characterized by its muted sound, which is softer and quieter compared to the Caramel Pudding. The Dolphins deliver a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, making them a suitable option for quieter environments like offices where minimizing noise is essential. Overall, the Caramel Pudding will create a lively auditory experience, while the Dolphin will ensure a more discreet typing session.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, offering a seamless travel with minimal resistance or friction. This smoothness makes them a joy to type on, appealing to those who seek a fluid action with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphins provide a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, resulting in a substantial tactile feedback that some users might find more satisfying as they push through each key. Additionally, the polished finish of the Dolphins contributes to a refined and lubricated feel, minimizing friction during typing. While the Caramel Pudding excels in smoothness, the Dolphin offers a balance of resistance and a luxurious feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Dolphin linear switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Caramel Pudding is ideal for those who enjoy a clacky, engaging auditory experience with an exceptionally smooth typing action. Conversely, the Durock Dolphin suits users looking for a silent switch that provides satisfying feedback and a polished feel during use. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound levels and typing feel, as they both deliver unique yet enjoyable mechanical keyboard experiences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Dolphin linear switches largely depends on your specific needs and preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a switch with a lighter actuation force and a resonant, clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent option. Its 52g bottom out force offers a smooth experience that may feel more responsive for faster typing or gaming, making it suitable for enthusiasts who value feedback alongside auditory pleasure. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that operates quietly, the Durock Dolphin's muted sound profile and solid 62g force provide a more substantial feel, ideal for both office settings and environments where noise reduction is crucial. The Dolphin’s polished finish ensures a sleek and smooth typing journey, making it perfect for users who appreciate a bit of resistance while still desiring subtlety in sound. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize a more lively and pronounced typing experience or a refined, quiet one that still feels gratifying to type on.
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