HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both represent premium linear options but cater to distinct typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky acoustic profile and an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making them a great choice for those who enjoy an engaging sound and feel while they type. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, reminiscent of traditional typing, which appeals to users who prefer a more tactile connection to their keyboard. The V2U switches, enhanced with a bouncy 22mm spring and crafted from nylon, deliver a softer and bassier sound, creating a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity. Both switches have their merits—whether you lean towards the lively feedback of the Caramel Pudding or the refined comfort of the Hyacinth V2U. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U showcase notable differences in their top housing materials that pivotally affect their auditory characteristics. The Caramel Pudding switches utilize nylon for their top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's soft, sound-absorbing properties, which tend to muffle and enrich sounds through its pliability. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a material recognized for its rigidity and clarity, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound signature. The use of translucent polycarbonate not only enhances the acoustic clarity but also provides a visually striking effect when paired with RGB lighting, which significantly alters the aesthetic experience of the switches.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which creates a common ground for their sound production when the key is bottomed out. The nylon bottom housing, found in both the Caramel Pudding and the Hyacinth V2U, contributes to a fuller sound profile. This shared component ensures that the tactile experience during key presses remains consistent across both models. The softness of the nylon material dampens noise and cushions the impact, enforcing a similar auditory feedback during bottoming-out while maintaining a deep, resonant sound profile that typifies switches with nylon bottoms.
When considering the overall synthesis of sound and performance between the two switches, it's essential to recognize how the differences in top housing materials influence the auditory experience. The Caramel Pudding's nylon top and the Hyacinth V2U's polycarbonate top provide contrasting qualities, with the former focusing on a muted, deeper sound and the latter delivering a brilliant and sharp sound. However, the convergence in their nylon bottom housings allows for a harmonious balance overall. Thus, while users will notice distinct acoustic experiences when pressing these switches, a shared bottom housing creates an underlying consistency that ties both switches together, ensuring that users will not stray far from a satisfying typing experience, regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
Both the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch share the same specifications, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience when using either switch, as they both require the same amount of force to actuate and bottom out. In terms of weight, both switches are categorized as medium-light, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Since the actuation and bottom out forces are identical, users can anticipate similar results in terms of typing feel and fatigue levels, regardless of which switch they choose.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option between the two, which may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times due to its more responsive nature. Conversely, the Hyacinth V2U, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. If you're after a more abrupt feel in your keyboard usage, the Caramel Pudding would be an ideal choice, while the Hyacinth V2U caters to those who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes.
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 HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U for $2.91.
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 linear switch is known for its resonant and clacky sound signature. This lively auditory feedback adds a layer of excitement to the typing experience, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a bit of character in their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U boasts a more subdued and bassier sound profile, which results from its nylon construction. While the Caramel Pudding might turn heads with its clackiness, the Hyacinth V2U presents a more neutral sound that balances well in various environments, from home to work settings. Both switches, however, can have their tonal qualities influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch stands out for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a fluid key press without interruption. Meanwhile, the Hyacinth V2U’s feel is characterized by being polished and silky, further enhancing the smoothness and reducing friction during typing. This switch features a fuller travel distance of 3.9mm, appealing to those who appreciate a more traditional typing sensation. The added bounciness from the 22mm spring provides a tactile responsiveness that some users may find more engaging compared to the Caramel Pudding’s more streamlined feel.
In conclusion, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U both deliver unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Caramel Pudding excels with its clacky sound and smooth, uninterrupted feel, creating an energetic typing experience. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U offers a more subdued sound profile and a traditional feel that appeals to those who enjoy a bit of nostalgia with enhanced polish and bounciness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that both options stand out in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U linear switch should ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a more lively typing experience characterized by a resonant, clacky sound and a noticeably smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding will likely appeal to you. This switch provides a delightful auditory feedback that enhances the overall experience, making it a fantastic choice for home use where you can revel in the sound. On the other hand, if you're seeking a traditional typing experience combined with modern enhancements, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2U is your go-to option. With its fuller travel distance and a softer, bassier sound signature, this switch offers a polished and silky feel that caters well to both work and casual environments due to its neutral and subdued acoustic profile. In short, consider the Caramel Pudding for a spirited typing experience and the Hyacinth V2U when you prefer a more refined yet classic touch.
Mentioned in this article
