HMX Caramel Pudding vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options to consider are the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Gold Silver, both linear switches that offer unique tactile experiences for different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its clacky sound signature, delivering a distinctive auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. In addition to this engaging sound, it offers an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort alongside a pleasurable auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver is designed for speed and precision, boasting a shortened travel distance that allows for rapid responsiveness with a decisive and solid bottom-out on each keystroke. This switch is characterized by its resonant sound and seamless typing experience, making it ideal for gamers or fast typists who need quick action without sacrificing fluidity. Both switches have their merits, catering to different needs and preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Gold Silver switches showcase distinct contrasts in their top housing materials, resulting in varying sound profiles during use. The Caramel Pudding's top housing, made from nylon, is designed to produce a deeper, fuller sound. This is primarily due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound waves and contributes to a more muffled auditory experience. Conversely, the TTC Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that generates a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The clear characteristics of polycarbonate not only enhance the clarity of the switch's sound but also allow for RGB lighting to shine through more effectively. Therefore, while both switches aim for auditory appeal, they achieve notably different results due to the materials chosen for the top housing.
In contrast, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Tucson Gold Silver employ nylon for their bottom housings, undertaking a unified approach in this aspect. The nylon material is recognized for producing a deeper and rounder sound profile, which becomes particularly evident during the bottoming-out phase of the switch. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing means that regardless of the differences observed in their top housings, the feel and sound experience upon key press down will be relatively similar. Essentially, the nylon bottom in both switches ensures that a satisfying depth is felt when the key is pressed, allowing users to enjoy a familiar auditory and tactile experience.
Considering that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall performance of a switch, the combination of materials in each switch can produce a unique sound signature. For the Caramel Pudding, the softer nylon top and bottom pairing creates a consistent sound that is deep and cushioned, while for the Gold Silver, the polycarbonate top contrasts with the nylon bottom, thus delivering a sharper sound experience while maintaining the richer quality in the bottoming-out. This blend of materials means that each switch can offer a unique typing experience: users of the Caramel Pudding will enjoy a subdued auditory experience, while those using the Gold Silver will appreciate crisp, high-pitched sounds during key releases, making both switches appealing despite their differences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which gives users a similar sensitivity in triggering keystrokes. This makes both switches suitable for extended typing sessions, as they provide a comfortable and relatively light resistance. However, the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, indicating a stronger push feel when the switch is fully pressed down, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver is currently unavailable, leaving a gap in the ability to fully assess its performance in this regard. Overall, the Caramel Pudding can be considered the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force, whereas the Gold Silver remains lighter in terms of overall actuation characteristics, though more information would be needed to fully capture its tactile feedback during bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, the difference is quite minimal, with the Caramel Pudding having a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Silver measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Gold Silver the shorter option by 0.1 mm, which may appeal to those who prioritize a quicker response time, especially gamers seeking fast actuation. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding's slightly greater travel distance could be preferred by users who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer very similar tactile experiences, but the shorter travel distance of the Gold Silver may provide slightly more immediate feedback for rapid keystrokes, whereas the Caramel Pudding caters to those who favor a deeper press.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
The sound profiles of the HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Gold Silver linear switches offer distinct auditory experiences. The Caramel Pudding produces a resonant, clacky sound signature that is both engaging and satisfying, making each keystroke feel lively and more pronounced. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver incorporates a low-pitched and thocky sound, characterized by a deep and rich tone when pressed. Its neutral sound profile also makes it versatile for various environments, ensuring it caters to both casual and professional settings without being obtrusive. While the Caramel Pudding leans towards a more playful sound, the Gold Silver blends subtlety with a robust auditory feedback mechanism.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding is noted for its exquisitely smooth type feel, which encourages an effortless typing experience. This fluidity allows for less friction and more immediate key presses, creating an intuitive interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver provides a polished and silky feel, enhancing the smoothness with which keys travel down and up. The mild and subtle characteristics of the Gold Silver translate to a comfortable typing experience, appealing to a broader audience that prefers a gentler touch. Both switches, therefore, promise a refined typing sensation, although each does so with its unique brand of responsiveness and smoothness.
In summary, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Gold Silver linear switches both deliver enjoyable and effective typing experiences, their sound and feel differ in character. The Caramel Pudding offers a lively and clacky auditory experience paired with smooth keystrokes, while the Gold Silver provides a more subdued yet thocky sound with a polished and silky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preference, as both offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles, yet promise a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, your specific preferences and usage scenarios should guide your choice. If you lean towards enjoying a more acoustically appealing experience with a smooth yet noticeably clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding is ideal, especially for casual typing or when you appreciate a lively auditory feedback. Its medium-light force makes it suitable for extensive typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it a great choice for gamers or typists who prioritize comfort without sacrificing feel. Conversely, if your focus is on rapid responsiveness and a highly polished, silky typing experience, the TTC Gold Silver is your go-to. This switch’s swift action and strong bottom-out force create a satisfying "thocky" sound that many find invigorating—particularly beneficial for high-paced gaming or tasks where every keystroke counts. Its slight resistance is gentle enough to suit various environments, including shared spaces. In the end, your decision should align with whether you value a rich acoustic experience or prefer the refined, swift precision that the Gold Silver offers.
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