HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Grapefruit present two appealing options for enthusiasts who appreciate linear switches. The Caramel Pudding is renowned for its distinctive resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a soft and light feel, along with a unique "baritone" sound profile that, while not yet reaching the depths of "bass," provides a pleasant auditory experience without being overly distracting. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Caramel Pudding appeals to those seeking an engaging typing sound, while the Grapefruit serves users looking for a polished and subtle audio character. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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 HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Grapefruit switches display a noteworthy contrast in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter employing polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Caramel Pudding contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, as its relative softness allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience, making it suitable for users who prefer a more muted typing sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit produces a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its rigidity, which enhances clarity and resonance. The translucency of the polycarbonate also facilitates better RGB lighting effects, providing an appealing aesthetic complement to its sonic qualities.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Caramel Pudding and the Grapefruit switch configurations use nylon, which delivers a consistent experience across both products. This shared material ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel remain coherent, as both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile from their nylon bases. Thus, regardless of their differing top housing materials, both switches resonate with similar bottom-out qualities, allowing users who favor a more subdued tactile experience to find satisfaction in either option. This uniformity in bottom housing means that the distinctive effects of each switch's top housing are balanced by a shared foundation of sound absorption.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Grapefruit switches differ significantly, the complementary nature of their nylon bottom housings creates a cohesive experience. Users can expect a nuanced typing experience driven by the softer nylon lower sections, while the variation in the top materials allows them to choose an auditory signature that aligns with their personal preferences. Whether one prefers the muted depths of the nylon or the sharp clarity of polycarbonate, the similarity in the bottom housings ensures both switches can deliver satisfactory performance tailored to the user's desired sound profile.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch share a notable similarity in their actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, which contributes to a light feel ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out forces, the Caramel Pudding measures 52 grams, while the Grapefruit slightly increases this requirement to 53 grams. This minor difference in bottom out force may create a subtly firmer experience with the Grapefruit, potentially appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial typing sensation. Overall, both switches are categorized as medium-light, making them suitable for users seeking a balance between comfort and feedback, though the Caramel Pudding is marginally lighter due to its lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Grapefruit extends to 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, ideal for those who prefer more rapid keystrokes and quicker response times, which is particularly beneficial for gamers. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced tactile experience that some users might find more satisfying, particularly if they favor a deeper keystroke. Thus, the choice between these two switches fundamentally depends on personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and depth in typing 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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are best known for their resonant, clacky sound signature, which is generally characterized by a more pronounced, sharper auditory feedback when typing. This can create a lively atmosphere, especially in gaming or high-paced typing scenarios, where each keystroke provides clear auditory confirmation. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches possess a low-pitched, deep sound profile that leans toward a mellower tone, classified as "baritone." This gives the Grapefruit a more subdued auditory presence, appealing to those who favor a quieter typing environment or who may be using their keyboard in shared spaces. Both switches, however, will ultimately sound unique based on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, affecting their overall sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches offer an exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switches are described as having a soft and light touch, featuring a polished finish that reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. While the Caramel Pudding emphasizes a velvety feel, the Grapefruit focuses on a light, airy response, making each key press feel effortless. Both switches aim to provide a seamless typing experience, though the differences in actuation force may appeal to different preferences.
Overall, when choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Grapefruit linear switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique auditory and tactile experiences suited for varying user preferences. If you appreciate a more vibrant acoustic profile, the Caramel Pudding will serve you well, while if a quieter, more subdued typing experience is your goal, the Grapefruit could be the better option. Regardless of your choice, each switch promises a quality tactile response, leaving you with a satisfying typing feel whether you lean towards lively or more muted sound signatures.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a resonant and clacky sound, along with an exquisitely smooth typing feel, the Caramel Pudding is likely your best option. It offers a delightful auditory experience that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment, especially if you're using your keyboard for recreational purposes or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a "baritone" sound that leans towards the low-pitched spectrum, the Grapefruit switch might be the better fit. Its polished finish provides a soft and light typing feel, making it particularly suitable for extensive typing tasks, whether you are at your office or home. Additionally, if you're looking for a more neutral sound profile that fits a variety of situations without overpowering your environment, the KTT Grapefruit is a versatile choice. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize auditory feedback and smoothness with the Caramel Pudding or a mellow sound and refined touch with the Grapefruit.
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