HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both stand out as compelling options, each tailored to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an excellent choice for typists and those who enjoy a more tactile acoustic feedback. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are designed with gamers in mind, offering a shorter travel distance of just 3.4mm for rapid actuation, which can provide a competitive edge during fast-paced gameplay. These switches not only focus on performance but are also enhanced with vibrant RGB lighting, making your gaming setup visually striking. While the Caramel Pudding excels in delivering a delightful typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver prioritizes quick response times and stellar gaming dynamics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The comparison of the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches reveals distinct acoustic profiles due to their differing top housing materials. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, which inherently produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results from nylon's softer plastic composition, allowing it to absorb sound and create a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and more resonant properties. The sharper, higher-pitched sounds attributed to the polycarbonate material can significantly affect the overall acoustic results when the switches are engaged and released. Thus, while both switches provide unique sound characteristics due to their top housings, the choice of material shapes the auditory experience for users.
However, when examining the bottom housings, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilize nylon as their material, resulting in uniformity in how they feel and sound during key presses. The nylon bottom housing contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile that is characteristic of softer plastics. This shared element means that despite the acoustic differences presented by their respective top housings, both switches will produce a similar auditory experience when bottoming out. The softness of the nylon absorbs vibrations effectively, leading to a comparable feel and sound when pressed, reinforcing a level of consistency across both switch designs at the pivotal moment of actuation.
Overall, the juxtaposition of the housings emphasizes how the combination of materials can yield varied performance characteristics in mechanical switches. While the top housings of the HMX Caramel Pudding and G Pro 3.0 Silver distinctly influence sound profiles—creating a choice between a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, clearer tone—the similarity in bottom housing material elevates the experience shared by users of both switches. The nylon bottom's inherent softness ensures that the bottoming-out sensation is both comfortable and resonant, minimizing any drastic disparities in tactile feedback. Therefore, while the acoustic signatures differ due to the contrasting top materials, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing provides a pathway to experience a cohesive performance amidst variances in sound delivery.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, both have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, which means users will experience similar keystroke engagement and pressure required for triggering key presses. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Caramel Pudding switch at 52 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Silver at 50 grams. This difference indicates that while both switches offer a medium-light touch during actuation, the Caramel Pudding requires a bit more force to fully bottom out, resulting in a slightly heavier feel overall compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Consequently, the G Pro 3.0 Silver can be considered the lighter option, making it a potentially better choice for users who prefer less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a firmer bottom out feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding's switch allows for a deeper key press, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel in their typing experience. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Silver, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and users who favor quicker response times during their interactions, as shorter distances can lead to faster actuation. For someone who prioritizes rapid input, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the better choice, while the Caramel Pudding would suit those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keypress. Overall, if you seek a more responsive experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is an excellent option, while the Caramel Pudding is better for those who relish a deeper keystroke.
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 G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature. This quality makes it particularly appealing to users who appreciate a lively auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch features a more bassy and low-pitched sound, described as “thocky.” This deeper acoustic profile offers a rich and satisfying auditory experience marked by a pronounced thud when keys are engaged. While both switches deliver distinct sound signatures, the Caramel Pudding leans towards a higher, crisper tone, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a smoother, deeper auditory experience. Ultimately, the type of keyboard, its construction, and even keycap materials will also play a significant role in how these sound profiles emerge during use.
Regarding feel, the HMX Caramel Pudding switch is noted for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which can be crucial for long typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. This smoothness contributes to a highly enjoyable tactile sensation, encouraging rapid and fluid keystrokes. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, on the other hand, is described as buttery and creamy, suggesting an equally smooth and seamless keystroke experience. This fluidity may stem from either a specialized lubricant applied during manufacturing or the materials used in the switch’s construction. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying feel that can enhance user experience, making them excellent choices for both casual and competitive environments.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Caramel Pudding presents a higher-pitched, clacky sound with a focus on smoothness, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a deeper, bass-heavy auditory experience paired with a creamy, effortless feel. Depending on your specific preferences for sound and tactile sensation, you may find one switch more appealing than the other. However, both options guarantee an enjoyable typing experience, and you can achieve satisfying results with either switch in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your primary use case and personal preferences. If you value an enjoyable tactile experience and appreciate a melodious, clacky sound profile for both typing and casual gaming, the Caramel Pudding switch is an excellent choice, especially with its medium-light resistance of 52 grams that provides a balanced feel. This switch’s rich acoustic signature and smooth keystrokes cater to those who want to relish the act of typing or creating content, making it ideal for writers or casual users who enjoy the auditory feedback. Conversely, if you're focused more on competitive gaming where speed and precision are paramount, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the better option. With its ultra-light 50 grams resistance and shorter travel distance, you can benefit from rapid actuation, making it perfect for fast-paced gaming scenarios. The thocky sound adds a unique low-pitched enhancement to your gaming experience, while the buttery feel ensures your keystrokes are seamless and responsive. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your priorities in duration and application, so consider what aspects of typing or gaming matter most to you before making a decision.
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