HMX Caramel Pudding vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Pink offer unique yet appealing characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback alongside tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switches stand out for their remarkably light 37g actuation force, providing a fast and effortless typing experience that is particularly well-suited for rapid typing and gaming scenarios. While both switches deliver a satisfying clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding focuses more on a rich auditory experience, whereas the Gold Pink emphasizes a light and lively 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Pink exhibits both similarities and pronounced differences, notably in their top shell constructions. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing which tends to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a typing experience characterized by a deep and full sound profile. Contrastingly, the Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing which contributes to a sharper and crisper acoustic experience. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance, leading to a more pronounced high-pitched sound. This distinction indicates that while the Caramel Pudding fosters a relaxed auditory environment, the Gold Pink aims for clarity and brightness, appealing to different preferences in typing satisfaction.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, establishing a common ground between the two models. As nylon is known for its sound-absorbing capabilities, the use of this material in the Caramel Pudding ensures a consistent deep and full sound across the switch. Similarly, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing contributes to the same sound quality when typing—maintaining that deeper, rounder acoustic experience during key presses. This shared component allows both switches to deliver a certain level of uniformity in base acoustics, providing a reliable tactile feel and sound profile irrespective of the differences in their top housings.
The interaction between the top and bottom housing materials creates a layered auditory experience when using either switch. For instance, the impact of the top housing material is particularly pronounced during the act of releasing a key. The Caramel Pudding’s nylon top softens the sound, making for a gentle release, while the Gold Pink’s polycarbonate top sharpens the sound, creating a more exhilarating keystroke experience. When combining the nylon bottom housing with a polycarbonate top, as seen in the Gold Pink switch, enthusiasts can enjoy an amalgam of sound profiles: the full depth provided by the nylon counterbalanced by the clarity introduced by the polycarbonate, illustrating how each material's strengths can be tastefully merged to achieve a desired acoustic output.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, influencing the typing experience they offer. The Caramel Pudding requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Gold Pink is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classified as light. This means that users who prefer a gentler touch and longer typing sessions might gravitate towards the Gold Pink switch, while those seeking a more robust feel may prefer the Caramel Pudding. Overall, the Caramel Pudding is the heavier option, offering a more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter TTC Gold Pink, which allows for easier actuation and sustained use without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key distinction between the two: the Caramel Pudding offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quick and responsive keystrokes, while the Gold Pink's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a deeper typing experience. Thus, if responsiveness is your priority, the Caramel Pudding would be the better choice, while those looking for a heartier feel might want to opt for the Gold Pink switch.
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 TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 sound profile of the HMX Caramel Pudding switches is characterized by a resonant, clacky signature that many typists find delightful and engaging, adding a certain charm to the typing experience. This sound is likely to evoke a satisfying auditory feedback for users who enjoy the audible response of their keystrokes. In comparison, the TTC Gold Pink switches also produce a clacky sound, but with a lighter, more lively pitch due to their lower actuation force of 37g. While both switches offer a clacky sound, the nuances may vary depending on the board and keycap combination you choose, influencing the overall audio experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing sensation, providing a fluid and uninterrupted keystroke experience that can enhance both typing accuracy and speed. In contrast, the Gold Pink switches are designed to be light and effortless, offering a buttery feel that is complemented by mild resistance and a feathery touch. This means that users can expect minimal finger fatigue during extended use, making them ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. The combination of a subtle touch and polished finish in the Gold Pink switches makes them approachable and comfortable for a broad range of users.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Gold Pink linear switches showcase similarities in their clacky sound signatures, they differ in their overall typing experience. The Caramel Pudding excels in providing a smooth, engaging feel, while the Gold Pink prioritizes lightness and ease, catering to those who favor rapid keystrokes. For users seeking a dynamic typing experience, either switch can deliver satisfying results, but your choice will hinge on whether you prefer a smoother ride or a lighter touch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a moderately weighted feel with a bottom-out force of 52 grams that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice. Its clacky sound signature and smooth typing experience make it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile, yet not overly heavy switch. This switch excels for users who appreciate a bit of auditory satisfaction while typing or gaming, creating an engaging atmosphere during extended sessions. Conversely, if you are looking for the lightest touch possible with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams and a rapid actuation force of 37 grams, then the TTC Gold Pink is likely to suit your needs better. Its notably feathery and buttery feel allows for speedy typing and gaming actions without causing finger fatigue, making it perfect for those who want to maximize their efficiency and responsiveness. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the Caramel Pudding for its clacky resonance and smooth feel or the Gold Pink for its ultra-light, satisfying feedback, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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