HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Jupiter Red stand out as two excellent linear options, each catering to distinct preferences and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound profile, providing a unique auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate, alongside an exquisitely smooth typing feel that enhances overall comfort. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red switches prioritize a seamless, uninterrupted keystroke, thanks to their single-stage spring mechanism, which results in a medium-heavy actuation force. This switch is noted for its smoothness and the high-precision molds used in its production, alongside softer backlight effects that appeal to users seeking an aesthetic touch as well as consistent performance. While both switches present compelling benefits—be it the Caramel Pudding's engaging sound signature or the Jupiter Red's refined smoothness—each one speaks to different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding switches and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches, the differences in top housing materials play a significant role in their sound profiles. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer characteristics. This softer plastic material effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Jupiter Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for clearer resonation, making the sounds more pronounced. Thus, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing will primarily dictate the distortion of sound, with nylon promoting warmth and polycarbonate emphasizing clarity.
On the other hand, both the Caramel Pudding and Jupiter Red switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality ensures that both switches will maintain a similar acoustic quality when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Since both switches utilize nylon in this aspect, you can expect a deeper and fuller auditory experience when bottoming out. This harmonious blend of materials means that while the perceived sound may differ during the release phase (due to the unique qualities of the top housings), the hit will produce a consistent sound profile, allowing users to enjoy a familiar tactile experience when engaging with either switch.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials and the shared nylon bottom housing creates a unique dynamic for each switch. While the Caramel Pudding provides a warm, muffled sound due to its nylon top, the Jupiter Red carves out a path for crisp, sharp sounds thanks to polycarbonate. This contrast in top housings significantly influences the overall auditory experience while the nylon bottom ensures a consistent base quality. As a result, when engaging with these switches, users will experience the nuances of each material, ultimately rendering a diverse yet complementary typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience a similar typing feel when it comes to initiating key presses. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Caramel Pudding switch bottoming out at 52 grams, while the Jupiter Red requires a heavier 60 grams. This makes the Caramel Pudding switch overall lighter, providing a more effortless typing experience suitable for extended use in work or gaming sessions. Conversely, the heavier bottom out force of the Jupiter Red gives a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, a clear distinction can be observed. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jupiter Red boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jupiter Red switch provides a more pronounced keypress, which some users may find more satisfying or preferable for typing, especially if they enjoy that deeper feedback. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Caramel Pudding may offer quicker actuation, appealing to gamers or those who prioritize responsiveness over tactile depth. If you value efficiency and rapid response times, the Caramel Pudding will be the better choice, while the Jupiter Red may be better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial key press. Thus, the Caramel Pudding is the shorter option, and the Jupiter Red is the longer one.
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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
The sound profile of the HMX Caramel Pudding switches is notable for its resonant, clacky character, which can provide an engaging auditory experience for typists who enjoy a lively sound while they type. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switches are characterized as neutral, offering a moderate sound profile that meshes well with a variety of environments, making them suitable for users who need to balance their typing with work or home settings. Overall, while the Caramel Puddings deliver a more expressive sound, the Jupiter Reds provide a more subdued auditory experience, allowing you to choose based on your preference for liveliness versus moderation.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are praised for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, which likely makes for an enjoyable and fluid keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Reds are described using terms like polished, creamy, silky, and mild, all of which emphasize their smooth and refined feel. These descriptor characteristics suggest that while both switches aim to provide a smooth experience, the Jupiter Reds may offer a more luxurious typing feel that caters well to users who appreciate a silky-smooth glide when transitioning between keystrokes.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category. The Caramel Pudding offers a more resonant sound and a smoothly satisfying typing experience, whereas the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile alongside a silky and polished feel. Your choice may depend on whether you prioritize sound engagement or a refined typing sensation, but across both options, you can expect to achieve a pleasing and efficient typing experience with either one.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use cases. If you seek a switch that delivers a distinctly clacky sound and an exquisitely smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding might be your ideal pick. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams allows for a more gentle keystroke, making it well-suited for casual typing and gaming sessions where feedback and sound are part of the enjoyment. Conversely, if you prefer a more neutral switch that performs exceptionally well in both office settings and at home, the Jupiter Red is the way to go. Its slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams provides a solid feel that can enhance precision, all while maintaining a smooth and buttery typing experience. With its polished finish and seamless keystrokes, the Jupiter Red stands out for users who prioritize a consistent and refined typing motion. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you value most in your keyboard experience: whether that’s the expressive acoustics and lighter touch of the Caramel Pudding or the balanced performance and smooth tactility of the Jupiter Red.
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