HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Glory Yellow both offer unique and appealing characteristics for different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it a fantastic choice for users who crave auditory feedback and a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Glory Yellow switches, categorized as the heavier option in the Glory lineup, provide a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, which can cater to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches promise a delightful typing experience, yet they cater to different user preferences—enjoyment of sound versus weight in keystrokes. 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
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Glory Yellow employ nylon for their switch housings, incorporating it in both the top and bottom sections. Nylon is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This characteristic stems from nylon being a softer plastic compared to other materials, leading to a rounder and more dulled sound profile. Since both switches utilize nylon consistently across their housing, you can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches. Therefore, users can anticipate a pleasant and muted typing sound, ensuring that both options are designed for a similar acoustic performance.
Despite both switches using the same nylon material, the impact of housing on the feel and sound may be nuanced. The bottom housing is particularly influential in terms of the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing primarily influences the release sound once the key is let go. Given that both the Caramel Pudding and Glory Yellow switches are constructed with nylon throughout, the overall tonal qualities and sound absorption will be harmoniously balanced. This means that regardless of variations in other components—like springs or stems—the nylon housings lend a cohesive feel in terms of sound profile, allowing both switches to create satisfying acoustic feedback during use.
An interesting note is that if one switch had a different material for either the top or bottom housing, the sound signature would split, resulting in distinct auditory characteristics when typing. In the case of the Caramel Pudding and Glory Yellow, the full nylon construction ensures that users experience the depth and fullness of sound across both the bottoming out and releasing phases seamlessly. This commonality enhances the likelihood of achieving similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience, making both switches a solid choice for those who prioritize a rich acoustic profile in their keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, there are distinct differences in actuation force. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light option, while the Glory Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter touch might lean towards the Caramel Pudding for more comfortable and prolonged typing sessions, whereas those who appreciate a stronger push feel may favor the Glory Yellow. In terms of bottom out force, the Caramel Pudding also has a measurable bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more definitive tactile feedback on a full press. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is listed as unavailable, leaving an important comparison factor unknown. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch with clear feedback, the HMX Caramel Pudding would be the preferable choice, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel may find the Gateron Glory Yellow more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Glory Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Glory Yellow, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by users who appreciate a more substantial keypress experience that feels less abrupt. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus depth in your typing or gaming experience.
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 Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is known for its resonant, clacky sound signature, making it particularly appealing to users who enjoy an audible feedback with their keystrokes. This distinct acoustic profile contributes to a lively typing experience, allowing for a satisfying auditory response with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch also offers a smooth sound but with an emphasis on a more subdued auditory presence. While the exact sound characteristics of the Glory Yellow may vary based on external factors like switch housing and keycap materials, users can generally expect a quieter performance compared to the more pronounced clackiness of the Caramel Pudding.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Caramel Pudding excels with an exquisitely smooth typing experience. This switch's design promotes effortless key presses, which can enhance extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow provides a smooth keystroke as well, noted for its pleasing travel distance that contributes to a comfortable typing experience. Although both switches prioritize smoothness in feel, the Glory Yellow's slightly heavier actuation may impart a different tactile experience, possibly leading to a more controlled keystroke for users who prefer more resistance.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches cater to keyboard enthusiasts looking for a smooth typing feel, but they diverge notably in their sound profiles. The Caramel Pudding offers a clackier, more resonant sound, whereas the Glory Yellow is more subdued and quiet. Depending on your personal preferences for auditory feedback and keystroke resistance, you may favor one switch over the other, yet both can provide similar results in terms of an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches, your decision should hinge on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics. If you gravitate towards a switch that offers a medium-light resistance paired with a uniquely resonant and clacky sound signature, then the Caramel Pudding could be the perfect fit for you. It is especially suitable if you seek a smooth typing experience and enjoy the tactile feedback that adds character to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a heavier feel and a satisfying travel distance, the Glory Yellow will likely be more appealing. This switch is designed to provide a smooth and pleasant typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who engage in extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In the end, your choice should reflect your individual typing style and the ambiance you want to create while you type, ensuring that you select a switch that makes your mechanical keyboard experience as enjoyable as possible.
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