HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX FJ400 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding is renowned for its resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy audible feedback and a satisfying tactile sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the FJ400 serves as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, delivering a balanced sound profile that strikes an appealing compromise between quiet operation and satisfying feedback. Both switches excel in their respective qualities; the Caramel Pudding may be perfect for enthusiasts seeking a lively and engaging typing experience, while the FJ400 is ideal for users who prefer a more neutral auditory profile. 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
58g
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
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
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 HMX FJ400, one notable distinction arises from the top housing constituents. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon’s relatively softer composition, enabling it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the FJ400 utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which, while still offering a pleasing and muted sound, may not absorb sound to the same extent as nylon. Consequently, while both switches can generate low frequencies, the HMX Caramel Pudding is likely to sound rounder and duller than the HMX FJ400, which may give a clearer but still rich auditory experience.
Diving deeper into the bottom housing materials, both the Caramel Pudding and the FJ400 utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material choice allows both switches to deliver a similarly deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of nylon; the plastic's properties mean it will absorb and dampen sound, contributing to a muted bottom-out sound. Since the bottom housing has a significant role in the overall sound and feel upon actuation, this consistency in material ensures both switches will provide a similar acoustic experience during key presses. This similarity suggests that regardless of the differences in the top housings, users can expect a satisfying tactile experience from the switches due to the nylon bottom housing.
In summary, while the top housing materials differ between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX FJ400—nylon versus POM—the commonality in their nylon bottom housings creates a shared acoustic foundation that influences both switches. The distinctive sound profiles will be notably influenced by the characteristics of the top housing's material. With the Caramel Pudding offering a fuller and rounder sound due to nylon's softer traits, while the FJ400’s POM offers a more unique and muted sound, the overall experience upon pressing the keys will be balanced by the nylon bottom that both switches possess. Thus, users can appreciate the nuanced differences in feel and sound, while still recognizing an underlying similarity in the characters imparted by the bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions and casual gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the FJ400 switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may find satisfying for a robust typing experience. Thus, for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Caramel Pudding is the better choice, while the FJ400 appeals to those who enjoy a heavier keypress. Overall, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces results in a variance in typing feel, making each switch uniquely appealing based on user preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX FJ400 linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, accommodating those who prefer a more responsive feel typical of contemporary gaming preferences. In contrast, the FJ400's longer travel distance of 3.8 mm may appeal to users who favor a more substantial key press, providing a deeper feedback that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth; the Caramel Pudding will yield quicker response times due to its shorter travel distance.
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 HMX FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 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 switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature, which can make each keystroke feel more pronounced and engaging. This lively acoustic profile can add an element of excitement to typing sessions, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a more balanced sound profile, which might lean towards a subtler, less pronounced auditory experience. This balanced sound can be appealing for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the enjoyment of a well-designed switch. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound will also depend on factors like the keyboard design and the keycap material used.
Regarding feel, the Caramel Pudding switch excels with its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. This smoothness is a significant draw for typists who value a seamless interaction with their keyboard. Conversely, the FJ400 switch serves as a middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, suggesting a balanced tactile feedback that may suit users looking for a compromise between smoothness and slight resistance. While it might not reach the exceptional fluidity of the Caramel Pudding, the FJ400 can still provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to a broader range of preferences.
In summary, while the HMX Caramel Pudding switch delivers a clacky sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, the HMX FJ400 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile along with a more moderate tactile experience. Users can expect to enjoy distinct auditory and tactile experiences from both switches, with the Caramel Pudding leaning towards a spirited typing atmosphere, and the FJ400 providing a more understated approach. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what qualities are most important to the individual user, whether they prioritize an engaging sound or a smooth typing action.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you wish to achieve with your mechanical keyboard. If you favor a lighter actuation with a bottom-out force of 52 grams, and enjoy a resonant, clacky sound that adds character to your keystrokes, the Caramel Pudding switch would be your ideal choice. This switch provides an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it suitable for those who indulge in extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without fatigue. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more balanced sound profile combined with a medium actuation force of 58 grams, the FJ400 is the better option. It serves as a versatile middle ground in the HMX lineup, offering a more subdued typing sound while still delivering a pleasant typing experience. In essence, select the Caramel Pudding for an engaging auditory feedback and smooth feel, while the FJ400 will be your go-to switch if you prefer a bit more resistance along with a balanced acoustic experience.
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