HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Jwick Ginger Milk both offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback along with seamless keystrokes. In contrast, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches present a softer, pastel-like typing experience characterized by a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. This makes them particularly appealing to those who prioritize a quieter environment without sacrificing tactile response. Both switches fall under the category of linear switches, providing smooth key presses without tactile bumps, yet they differ significantly in their acoustic and tactile nuances. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Jwick Ginger Milk, a distinct difference emerges in their top housing: while the Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon, a classic and softer plastic, the Ginger Milk employs polycarbonate, a stiffer material. This divergence in materials notably influences the sound profiles of the two switches. The nylon top of the Caramel Pudding is designed to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory experience that is characteristic of softer plastics. In contrast, the polycarbonate top of the Ginger Milk allows for a sharper, crisper sound due to its rigidity. This means that while both may be excellent for different preferences, their acoustic results will cater to varied user experiences.
Interestingly, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, which significantly aligns their sound profiles. With nylon, known for its ability to dampen sound, both switches will produce a thicker, rounded sound when the keys are bottomed out. This shared material in the bottom housing means that, irrespective of the differences in the top housing, users will experience a consistent warmth and depth during key presses with both switches. The pooled absorption qualities of the nylon contribute to a uniform tactile feel and auditory response at the point of actuation, highlighting how the bottom housing's material can unify sound characteristics across different switch designs.
Ultimately, the combination of the materials in the Caramel Pudding and Ginger Milk creates a rich tapestry of auditory experiences shaped by their respective designs. Users seeking a more muted, mellow sound may gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding due to its nylon top housing, while those who favor clarity and brightness may prefer the Ginger Milk with its polycarbonate upper. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures that, at least in terms of bottoming out sound, there will be similarities—an opportunity for users to experience different aspects of sound and feel, while still drawing from the shared characteristics provided by the nylon. In essence, while the two switches cater to differing auditory preferences, their nylon bottoms create a common ground in tactile feedback, thereby enhancing the overall versatility of both options.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, we see a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Ginger Milk requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that users of the Caramel Pudding may favor a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming, while users of the Ginger Milk might appreciate the more substantial push associated with a heavier switch. The differences in weight suggest that individuals seeking a more cushioned typing experience should gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, while those who prefer a firmer keystroke should opt for the Ginger Milk. Overall, the HMX Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, while the Jwick Ginger Milk is the heavier choice, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ginger Milk has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive feel for gaming or fast-paced activities, the Caramel Pudding may be the better choice due to its shorter distance. Conversely, if you favor a more pronounced keypress with a deeper tactile experience, the Ginger Milk could provide that with its longer travel distance. In essence, the Caramel Pudding offers a snappier response, while the Ginger Milk gives a heartier depth in each 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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 sound signature that is inherent to its design, making it a choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch presents a muted, snappy sound profile that is generally more subdued, appealing to users seeking a quieter typing experience. The Ginger Milk's neutral sound characteristics mean it can cater to both beginners and seasoned typists, suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. However, remember that the sound produced by any switch is influenced by the keyboard build, keycap materials, and overall assembly, so the actual sound profile may vary depending on personal setup.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes that glide effortlessly under your fingers. Meanwhile, the Ginger Milk switches provide a silky smooth and approachable push feel, which is often described as buttery. This means both switches prioritize a fluid typing experience, although the Ginger Milk adds a touch of softness that might appeal to those looking for a more gentle response. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a high degree of smoothness, ensuring that users can enjoy comfortable and enjoyable typing.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding's clacky sound and smooth typing feel appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback and an elegant keystroke experience. Conversely, the Ginger Milk's muted sound and buttery feel attract users seeking a quiet, soft typing experience. Ultimately, both options present high-quality typing sensations, so individuals can select based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback while benefiting from the smoothness and comfort inherent in both switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you seek a more tactile and engaging sound experience, the Caramel Pudding with its resonant and clacky signature will likely appeal to you, especially if you enjoy a medium-light bottom-out force that provides an exquisitely smooth typing feel. This makes it ideal for those who may spend long hours typing and appreciate a bit of auditory pleasure in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more neutral typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches offer a silky push feel paired with a muted sound profile. With a medium-heavy actuation force, these switches might be better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial feedback during their typing or gaming sessions, while still ensuring comfort. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you value a lively auditory feedback with light presses, or a reserved, buttery smooth sensation with a firmer feel.
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