HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh characteristics like sound, feel, and performance to find their ideal typing experience. The HMX Caramel Pudding switch stands out for its resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch reimagines the beloved Black Cherry Pie design with custom-molded switches, offering a unique creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience characterized by a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile. Both switches, being linear in design, cater to users who prefer smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps. Ultimately, the decision between the Caramel Pudding and BCP may come down to personal preference in sound and typing sensation. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Kailh BCP switches share a significant similarity in their housing materials, as both employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material due to its sound-dampening qualities. By utilizing this softer plastic in their constructions, both switches are designed to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Consequently, users of both switches can expect similarly satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the keys' feel and sound, it's important to recognize that both switches will deliver comparable performance due to their identical use of nylon in the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a more prominent role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is fully pressed, while the top housing significantly influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Since both the Caramel Pudding and BCP switches incorporate the same nylon material in both housing sections, this synergy ensures that the qualities of each switch remain consistent throughout use, allowing for a cohesive typing experience.
In essence, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and Kailh BCP may present different designs or aesthetics, their use of nylon in both top and bottom housing effectively creates a unified auditory and tactile experience that is inherently similar. For users seeking a switch that excels in sound absorption and provides a satisfying acoustic profile, both the Caramel Pudding and BCP switches will fulfill these criteria. Ultimately, regardless of preference or specific use case, those who choose either switch can look forward to enjoying the rich, resounding feedback that nylon provides, resulting in a dynamic and engaging typing journey.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch with the Kailh BCP linear switch, a notable distinction arises in their overall weight. The Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for prolonged work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced and substantial feel when typing. This difference in force means that while the Caramel Pudding switch promotes ease of use and comfort, the BCP switch offers a more tactile response that some users may prefer for their typing or gaming activities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prioritizes a lighter touch or a more robust actuation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we find notable differences. The Caramel Pudding switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the BCP switch measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel during gameplay, the Kailh BCP switch may be the better option, as its shorter travel distance could facilitate quicker actuation. Conversely, the HMX Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial, deeper tactile experience for those who prefer a less abrupt actuation. Therefore, the Caramel Pudding is the longer travel option, while the Kailh BCP is the shorter, making each suitable for different user preferences.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 switch is best characterized by its resonant, clacky sound signature, which tends to enhance the auditory feedback during typing and gaming. Similarly, the Kailh BCP linear switch also shares a poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience. The clackiness in both switches creates an engaging experience, although the overall sound will still depend on the specific keyboard build and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless actuation with minimal resistance, which promotes a fluid typing motion. On the other hand, the BCP switch offers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that provides a unique tactile response. While both switches deliver distinct experiences, their design philosophies cater to different preferences in typing dynamics, making each one appealing to various users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Kailh BCP linear switches offer their own delightful auditory and tactile qualities. While the Caramel Pudding evokes a smooth experience with a resonant sound signature, the BCP presents a creamy, bouncy feel paired with a poppy sound. Ultimately, your choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding the auditory emphasis and tactile sensations you find most enjoyable, but rest assured that either will deliver satisfying performance overall.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, consider your personal preferences for force, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams that offers an exquisitely smooth typing feel coupled with a resonant, clacky sound signature, then the Caramel Pudding switch would be an excellent choice for you. It's particularly suitable for extended typing sessions where comfort and a satisfying auditory feedback are paramount. Conversely, if you are inclined towards a more robust typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Kailh BCP switch might be the better option. Its creamy, viscous feel paired with a poppy, clacky sound can make your keystrokes feel both lively and engaging, perfect for intense gaming sessions or anyone who enjoys a tactile punch from their switches. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the specific sounds and sensations that enhance your experience the most.
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