HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Jelly both offer unique experiences suited to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature, providing an auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying alongside its exquisitely smooth typing feel. In contrast, the Jelly switches deliver a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound that resonates with those who appreciate a more subdued auditory experience, while also boasting super smooth keystrokes courtesy of excellent factory lubrication and an appealingly lightweight 42g actuation force. Both switches fall into the linear category, ensuring a smoother keypress without tactile bumps. Ultimately, choosing between the Caramel Pudding and Jelly comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Jelly share identical housing materials, constructed entirely from nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This similarity in material choice lends both switches a comparable acoustic profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Given these shared characteristics, both switches will deliver a consistent acoustic performance, making them appealing for users seeking a specific sound profile in their keyboard experience.
While both the Caramel Pudding and Jelly feature nylon as the sole material for their housings, this results in uniformity in how sound is produced and perceived during use. The top and bottom housings interact harmoniously, further emphasizing the switch's overall dampening qualities. Since the nature of the nylon reduces reverberation, users will experience diminished sharpness in sound, regardless of whether they opt for the Caramel Pudding or the Jelly. Consequently, both switches will yield an engaging, fuller sound, underlining the effectiveness of nylon in crafting a pleasant typing experience.
It is important to note that even with the same material, the perception of sound may still differ slightly depending on other design aspects, such as the switch's spring or internal components. However, because both the Caramel Pudding and Jelly utilize nylon for their entire housing, the qualities that affect typing sound and feel remain consistent. The interaction between the softer material and the design elements means that both switches will equally contribute to a satisfying tactile feedback and a soothing sound profile, making either choice a solid option for those focused on the acoustic performance of their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, notable differences emerge in both 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. In contrast, the Jelly switch requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 48 grams, placing it firmly within the light category. This difference in actuation force may appeal to users who favor a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Jelly’s lower forces make it even more suitable for users who prioritize a gentle keystroke. Conversely, those who prefer a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Thus, for a more substantial typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is the heavier option, whereas the Jelly is the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Jelly linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding provides a shorter travel experience compared to the Jelly switch. For users who prioritize responsiveness, the Caramel Pudding might be the preferred choice, as its shorter distance can facilitate quicker key presses, making it particularly appealing for gamers. Conversely, the Jelly's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced feel, which some may prefer for a satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether one values quicker response times or a more robust pressing 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 HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature that adds a lively auditory experience to each keystroke. This bright sound can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy an audible feedback, creating a delightful harmony that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Jelly switches produce a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature. This sound is more muted and deeper, providing a satisfying thock that can be ideal for users who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback while typing. It’s important to note that the overall sound of each switch can also be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches offer an exquisitively smooth typing experience that is highly valued among typists and gamers alike. This smoothness allows for easy and quick keystrokes, minimizing friction during rapid typing sessions. In contrast, the Jelly switches are also noted for their superior smoothness, which is further enhanced by excellent factory lube. Additionally, with a lightweight actuation force of 42g, the Jelly switches provide a gentle experience, making them particularly accessible for users who may prefer less resistance when pressing keys. Both switches deliver a satisfying tactile experience, with each catering to slightly different preferences in typing force and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Jelly linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that can cater to different typing preferences. While the Caramel Pudding’s clacky sound can add an engaging auditory element to typing, the Jelly's deep thock provides a more reserved yet satisfying auditory feedback. In terms of feel, both switches are impressively smooth, but the Jelly offers a lighter actuation force which could appeal to users who favor a softer touch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize an auditory experience or a lighter actuation while still enjoying smooth keystrokes from either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, your personal preferences and typing experience will play significant roles. If you enjoy a more resonant, clacky sound and appreciate a smoother typing feel with a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Caramel Pudding switch may be your best choice. This switch is ideal for typists who value acoustic feedback and a responsive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and deeper thocky sound, along with a lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Jelly switch is your go-to option. Its excellent factory lube ensures an incredibly smooth experience that makes it particularly appealing for those who prioritize ease of use over sound signature. Ultimately, consider what is most important to you—whether it’s the satisfying acoustics of the Caramel Pudding or the silky smoothness of the Jelly—as this will guide you toward the switch that best complements your typing style and preferences.
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