HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh their options based on sound, feel, and overall typing experience. The HMX Caramel Pudding, a linear switch, captivates users with its resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, appealing to those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback along with their tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black also offers a linear action but distinguishes itself with a creamy smoothness, while its sound profile evokes the distinct sound of a shaken spray paint can, making it a unique choice for a quieter yet satisfying feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Caramel Pudding for those who enjoy a lively and engaging soundscape, and the Ink Box Black for users seeking a polished and refined typing sensation. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding switches and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches, it's evident that distinct sound profiles arise from their differing materials. The Caramel Pudding employs a nylon top and bottom housing, both of which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience due to the material's softer properties. This soft plastic absorption allows for a rounder acoustic signature, which is ideal for those preferring a more muted auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, producing a sharper and more pronounced high-pitched sound characterized as clacky. This material choice gives these switches a brighter auditory quality, appealing to users who enjoy crisp and lively keystrokes.
The differences in sound profiles between the two switches are largely attributed to the housing materials used. While the Caramel Pudding's nylon construction permits a low-frequency resonance, effectively muffling the sound and enriching the typing experience with a smoother acoustic, the Gateron Ink Box Black's INK blend allows for a sound that can be perceived as more vibrant and lively. The nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively, resulting in a duller auditory experience, while the INK blend reflects sound, producing a clearer and more pointed noise. Thus, while they both serve the same purpose, the experience they offer during use can feel quite distinct, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Despite these contrasts, there are also notable similarities that suggest users could achieve comparable typing experiences if layered properly. Both switch designs feature their unique sound profiles influenced heavily by their materials, meaning that when pressed, the top and bottom housings interact to create a signature auditory experience. For instance, although the Caramel Pudding delivers a fuller sound while the Ink Box Black favors a sharper profile, if a user desires a hybrid sound, they could mix and match or layer key switches from both types, deriving benefits from the softness of nylon and the finer clarity of the INK blend. This versatility in typing feel and sound allows enthusiasts to forge a customized experience that can meld the best attributes of each switch material.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch present a distinct contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, making it suitable for extended typing sessions due to its lighter touch. In contrast, the Ink Box Black requires a heftier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. This differentiation means that users who find fatigue in lighter switches may gravitate towards the heavier Ink Box Black, while those favoring comfort during prolonged use might enjoy the lighter Caramel Pudding. Overall, the Caramel Pudding offers a softer typing experience, while the Ink Box Black provides a more pronounced and robust keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys. With identical travel distances, users can expect comparable feedback and actuation, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer a consistent keypress feel. Since both switches share the same travel distance, they will provide similar results in terms of response and typing comfort.
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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature, which provides a lively auditory feedback during typing. This sound can be crisp and percussive, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a sound that can be likened to that of a spray paint can being shaken, which suggests a softer, less sharp noise compared to the Caramel Pudding. While both switches have their unique auditory profiles, the Caramel Pudding may be better suited for those who enjoy a more vibrant sound, whereas the Ink Box Black appeals to those who may prefer a quieter, yet distinct auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches deliver an exquisitively smooth typing experience, making them very enjoyable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches are praised for their silky and polished feel, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches prioritize a seamless keypress with minimal resistance, indicating that regardless of which switch you choose, you will experience a high level of smoothness. This makes both options excellent for typists looking for an enjoyable and fluid typing sensation.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches each bring their own character to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Caramel Pudding offers a clacky and resonant sound, while the Ink Box Black provides a softer auditory feedback with its unique spray can sound. When it comes to feel, both switches are noted for their smoothness and lack of resistance, ensuring a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two may hinge on whether you prefer a more vibrant sound or a quieter, more subtle auditory profile, but both will deliver a satisfying typing whether you're in a quiet office or at home.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a more engaging auditory experience, the Caramel Pudding switches, with their clacky and resonant sound signature, would be an excellent choice. Their medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams makes them ideal for those who favor rapid typing and a more playful keystroke feel. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial and subdued typing experience with a refined sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches may suit you better. With a heavier bottom-out force of 70 grams, they provide a silky and polished typing experience, reminiscent of a spray paint can and delivering a more muted yet pleasant auditory feedback. Ultimately, your decision should focus on whether you prioritize a lighter, more responsive switch with pronounced sound or a heavier, smoother switch with a sophisticated feel.
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