HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The HMX Caramel Pudding switch exemplifies the smooth, linear typing experience with a resonant, clacky sound signature that many users find immensely satisfying. Its exquisite smoothness makes it an ideal choice for gamers and typists who prioritize rapid key presses and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a different experience, blending creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a uniquely satisfying typing feel. Category-wise, it is characterized by qualities such as silky and polished touches, making it particularly appealing to those who enjoy tactile feedback while typing. While both switches have their distinct advantages—perfect for different user types—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Ice King Tactile utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, making their foundational sound profiles quite similar. Nylon is a well-established choice for switch housing due to its softer nature, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound. This material absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Consequently, users can expect a consistently rich sound output from both switch types as they utilize the same nylon formulation throughout their design. This commonality ensures that pressing each switch will elicit a satisfying acoustic response, making both options attractive for enthusiasts who value a pleasing typing experience.
Despite the use of the same nylon material in both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Ice King Tactile, the tactile experience may differ based on how each housing is engineered. While both may produce similar sound profiles due to the nylon, the specific design of the switches can lead to variations in feel and feedback during usage. With the same material characteristics, the key distinction will come from how the housing's structural details and internal mechanisms interact, which can influence the bottom-out feel and the tactile response users anticipate when engaging these switches.
Ultimately, if the top and bottom housings remained consistent in both switch models, users would enjoy a uniform sound and typing experience across the board. However, the combination of two nylon housings in each switch allows for a nuanced distribution of characteristics: the bottom housing significantly influences the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound, while the top housing contributes to the sound upon releasing a key. Thus, while they share the same material qualities, the unique designs of the Caramel Pudding and Ice King Tactile provide distinctive typing experiences that can cater to different preferences among keyboard users.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces become evident. The Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer longer typing sessions without excessive strain. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a stronger tactile feedback that some typists find more satisfying for a substantial typing experience. Therefore, for those seeking a lighter switch, the Caramel Pudding might be the preferred choice, while those looking for a firmer push should opt for the Ice King Tactile. Ultimately, while both switches serve different preferences, they highlight the spectrum of options available to accommodate varying typing styles and needs.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Caramel Pudding offers a marginally deeper experience, which some users may find beneficial for a more satisfying tactile feedback. Conversely, the Ice King Tactile switch, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as the smaller distance can result in faster actuation. Overall, if you prefer a more pronounced key press and feel a more traditional depth is essential, the Caramel Pudding would be the suitable choice. On the other hand, if a swift and responsive feel is more important to you, the Ice King Tactile would be preferable, albeit with a less profound keystroke 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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky signature, which can provide an engaging auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. This audible response can add a layer of interactivity to typing, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced sound when hitting the keys. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as producing a subdued noise, which means it generates a dampened sound upon actuation. While it is not silent, this subtlety can be beneficial in settings where a quieter operation is preferred, making it a great choice for environments like offices where noise might be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch delivers an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making each keystroke effortless and satisfying. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a more complex tactile experience, featuring a creamy smoothness alongside a pronounced tactile bump. This combination enhances the typing experience, allowing typists to feel a well-defined actuation point, which can greatly improve typing accuracy and satisfaction. The Ice King’s design also includes elements such as silky and frictionless operation, making for a very fluid key travel experience. The stepped sensation means the tactile feedback is more mild compared to hyper-tactile options, making it a nuanced choice for those who appreciate a bit of variation in their keystroke feel.
Overall, both switches offer unique and pleasurable typing experiences but cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding appeals to those who favor a clackier sound and exceptionally smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile is suited for users who value a more subdued sound while still enjoying a rich tactile feedback and impressive smoothness. Ultimately, your choice between these two options will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or tactile nuance in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter touch with a smooth, clacky sound and an effortless typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is the way to go. This switch’s medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it ideal for long typing sessions or for gaming, where rapid keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate the tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the Durock Ice King Tactile serves that purpose exceptionally well. With a medium-heavy feel at 68 grams, you’ll benefit from a satisfying tactile bump that supports mindful typing, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more deliberate and engaging keystroke. Furthermore, if you prefer a quieter environment, remember that the Ice King’s subdued sound signature may be suitable for shared spaces, while the Caramel Pudding’s clacking could be more enjoyable if you revel in audible feedback or work alone. By understanding these nuances, you can select the switch that best complements your workflow and enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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