HMX Caramel Pudding vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Red Pro stand out as two compelling options, each catering to different user preferences and experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant and clacky sound signature, paired with an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an exciting choice for those who enjoy a more expressive auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro switches offer a harmonious neutral sound signature that neither dominates nor disappears, making them an ideal fit for diverse settings, from the bustling office to late-night gaming marathons. Additionally, the Gold Red Pro is lauded for its versatility and ease of actuation, catering to a wide range of users, whether you're focused on gaming performance or comfortable typing experiences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Gold Red Pro switches present a fascinating contrast in their top housing materials, with the Caramel Pudding utilizing nylon and the Gold Red Pro employing polycarbonate. Nylon's inherently softer composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound waves and resulting in a rounder auditory experience. This gentleness of nylon makes it an optimal choice for users who appreciate a muted acoustic effect while typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate material of the Gold Red Pro yields a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature, which enhances clarity and resonance. This distinction in sound profiles can significantly influence a user's typing experience and preferences.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Caramel Pudding and Gold Red Pro switches feature nylon material, ensuring a consistent auditory characteristic at the lower end of the keystroke. Because nylon is a classic and widely adopted switch housing material, users can expect a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound from both switches, despite the differing top housing materials. This shared nylon in the bottom housing allows for a unified acoustic experience when pressing the keys, making it possible for users to enjoy that characteristic sound profile regardless of the variations in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of differing materials in the top housing results in unique sound dynamics between the two switches, while the shared nylon composition in the bottom housing unifies their overall acoustic experience. Users may find that while the Caramel Pudding offers a more subdued and soft touch with its nylon top, the Gold Red Pro brings a bright clarity that stands out with its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches' reliance on nylon for the bottom housing provides a foundational depth to the sound profile, allowing enthusiasts to achieve satisfying results no matter which switch they choose to use.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, we find some differences in their actuation forces but an unknown factor regarding the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro. The Caramel Pudding switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than the TTC Gold Red Pro's actuation force of 43 grams, making the Gold Red Pro the lighter option of the two. The bottom out force for the Caramel Pudding switch is 52 grams, providing a tangible feeling when the key is fully pressed down. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unavailable, leaving us without a basis for direct comparison in that aspect. This information suggests that while both switches provide a linear experience, the Caramel Pudding offers a bit more resistance at both actuation and bottom out, likely appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Gold Red Pro may be more suitable for users seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch differ in travel distance, with the Caramel Pudding measuring 3.6 mm and the Gold Red Pro at 3.8 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro, making it more appealing for gamers who prioritize rapid response times and quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro, with its slightly longer travel distance, may be more suitable for those who appreciate a fuller keystroke feel, providing a more pronounced tactile depth. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: opt for the Caramel Pudding for a more responsive experience, or the Gold Red Pro for a more substantial typing sensation.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 comparing the sound of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch with the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Caramel Pudding is known for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which provides an engaging auditory feedback during typing and can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy pronounced acoustics. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro features a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being too loud or too muted, making it an excellent choice for a more versatile environment. Its sound characteristics lean towards being low-pitched with a thocky quality that produces a soft “knock” with each keystroke, appealing to those seeking a more subdued typing sound that still has depth.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding is noted for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which is ideal for users who value an effortless stroke. The sensation is one that promotes fluidity and ease, making it a joy for extended typing sessions. Comparatively, the Gold Red Pro also offers a polished and silky feel, enhancing the typing experience through reduced friction and seamless key travel. Additionally, its mild and subtle resistance makes it approachable, catering well to users new to mechanical keyboards or those who prefer a gentler touch. This combination of features allows both switches to provide smooth and comfortable typing experiences, though the Caramel Pudding may lean slightly more towards being enthusiastically responsive.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches offer distinct yet enjoyable experiences tailored to different auditory and tactile preferences. While the Caramel Pudding excels in a lively sound signature and a silky feel, the Gold Red Pro shines with its neutral acoustics and polished typing sensation. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying experience from either switch, with respect to their unique sound and feel, though their distinct characteristics will appeal to varying tastes and environments, making choosing between them a personal preference rather than a matter of quality.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, your specific needs and preferences will play a significant role in your choice. If you're drawn to an engaging typing experience that features a resonant, clacky sound and an exquisitely smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding is likely your best bet. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more expressive auditory feedback while typing or gaming, making it suitable for personal setups where sound isn’t a major concern. Conversely, if you prioritize versatility and a more neutral typing experience, the TTC Gold Red Pro is the way to go. Its polished, silky feel, coupled with a low-pitched and thocky response, makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether you're in an office or at home. This switch is particularly advantageous if you work in shared spaces, as it provides a more subtle auditory profile that won’t disturb others. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, use case, and ambient environment, helping you to create the best possible mechanical keyboard experience.
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