HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Dream both offer compelling options for enthusiasts, albeit with distinct characteristics. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth typing experience, making them a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches provide a very light linear option that caters to those seeking quality without breaking the bank, earning a reputation for their affordability and ease of pressing. While the Caramel Pudding appeals to those who appreciate both sound and touch, the Dareu Dream is perfect for budget-conscious users who prioritize a lighter typing feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Dream, it's clear that the two switches utilize different top housing materials, leading to distinctive sound profiles. The Caramel Pudding incorporates nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer quality that results in deeper and fuller sound attributes. This characteristic contributes to a more muted and round sound signature, offering a warmer typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Dream features a polycarbonate top housing that is stiffer, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio feedback. This difference in sound profile highlights how material choice greatly influences the auditory characteristics of each switch, with nylon favoring warmth while polycarbonate leans towards clarity.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which brings a similar depth to their sound profiles. Since the bottom housing has a significant impact on the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound, both the Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Dream deliver a fuller and rounder feel characteristic of nylon. This shared material in the bottom section means that users of either switch can enjoy a satisfying tactile experience, irrespective of the differences in the top housing materials. The nylon across both switches unites them with a commonality in feel, while the divergent top housing materials explore unique sound experiences.
Ultimately, the distinct top housing materials of the Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Dream highlight the importance of design choices in crafting a keyboard's auditory experience. The nylon top housing of the Caramel Pudding ensures a deep sound profile that enhances the warmth of the keystrokes, while the polycarbonate top of the Dareu Dream sharpens and clarifies the sound output for a brighter experience. Despite these differences, the common use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a shared tactile resonance that may fulfill similar user preferences in terms of feel. Consequently, both switches offer a unique blend of auditory characteristics, providing users with the chance to select a switch that caters to their specific preferences without sacrificing a satisfying touch experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their design characteristics. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light, making it suitable for those who prefer a balance between comfort and feedback during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Dream is not available, leaving a gap in the comparison regarding how firmly it engages with the keyboard’s bottom. Given the known specifications, the Caramel Pudding is the heavier option with a more substantial feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. In contrast, the Dream, with its lighter actuation, may offer a different tactile experience even if its bottom out force remains a mystery. Thus, users who prefer a lighter feel should consider the Dareu Dream, while those who value a firmer typing experience might lean towards the Caramel Pudding.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, the Caramel Pudding boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dream extends slightly longer at 4 mm. This difference means that if you prioritize a quicker response time, the Caramel Pudding may be the more suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance, offering a snappier feel that many gamers appreciate. Conversely, the Dareu Dream, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced key press, providing a more substantial tactile feedback. Ultimately, while both switches cater to varying preferences—speed versus depth—the Caramel Pudding is the shorter option and the Dream is the longer one, highlighting the diverse needs of keyboard users.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 switch offers a resonant and clacky signature that many enthusiasts find appealing. The clacky nature provides a vibrant auditory feedback that feels engaging during typing. This sharp and snappy sound, often described as crisp and bright, creates an invigorating typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switch is also known for producing a clacky sound, contributing to an enjoyable auditory experience. However, the overall sound profile might not resonate as strongly as the Caramel Pudding due to the perceptions of lightness associated with the Dream, which may offer a quieter and more subdued clack while still maintaining some level of percussive response. As with all switches, the sound will be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycap materials, so users can achieve a similar auditory result depending on those choices.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is characterized by its exceedingly smooth typing experience, providing an effortless glide for each keystroke. This smoothness can greatly enhance user satisfaction, especially during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is notable for being exceptionally light and easy to press, making it suitable for users who prefer minimal resistance. It offers a mild typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness, reducing finger fatigue. While the Dream's light actuation force may not deliver the same level of smoothness as the Caramel Pudding, it still promises a gentle and enjoyable typing sensation.
Overall, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Dareu Dream linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding stands out with its pronounced clack and luxurious smoothness, while the Dareu Dream shines through its lightweight and accessible design, making it a great budget option. When it comes to sound, while both switches have a clacky nature, the Caramel Pudding may provide a more dynamic auditory feedback, whereas the Dream might present a softer approach. In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding excels in delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, compared to the effortless light touch of the Dream. Regardless of the choice, users can enjoy satisfying experiences reflective of their preferences in typing dynamics and sound aesthetics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you value a moderately-tactile experience characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature and a smooth typing feel, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice, especially if your typing style leans toward producing an engaging auditory feedback with every keystroke. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more expressive typing session, whether for general use, gaming, or even creative writing. On the other hand, if you're aiming for a lightweight and effortless typing experience, the Dareu Dream switch stands out due to its easy-to-press design and mild characteristics. These switches are particularly suitable for budget-conscious enthusiasts or anyone who may spend long hours typing and desires a more gentle feel with minimal finger fatigue. Whether you prioritize sound and tactility or a light and smooth action will dictate your ideal switch choice.
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