HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Kang White both offer compelling linear options tailored for different preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them a fantastic choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switches are known for their poppy sound and low-pitched tonal quality, providing a dazzling auditory experience. Additionally, the Kang White switches stand out due to their self-lubricating material, ensuring unparalleled smoothness with every keystroke. While both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, they cater to slightly different tastes in auditory and tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Kang White switches, the primary distinction lies in the top housing materials used. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the KTT Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound characteristics. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more resonant sound profile that can accentuate the clarity of keystrokes, making the sound more vibrant and dynamic. Aesthetically, the KTT Kang White also benefits from the translucency of polycarbonate, enhancing RGB lighting effects, which is less pronounced in the Caramel Pudding's opaque nylon top.
Both the Caramel Pudding and the KTT Kang White switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which significantly influences their acoustic properties. The nylon used in this part of the switches contributes to a deeper and fuller typing experience, as it absorbs sound better than harder plastics. This shared use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a consistent bottom-out sound and feel for both switches, providing users with a familiar tactile feedback when pressed. While the top housings are distinct in material—leading to a difference in their upper sound profiles—the bottom housing creates a similar depth of sound experience in both switches, reinforcing the auditory consistency in bottoming out.
Given that the bottom housings of both the Caramel Pudding and the Kang White are made of nylon, the integration of this common material ensures that users will experience comparable sound dampening and tactile feedback during typing. Therefore, while the sound profiles differ due to the contrasting properties of the top housings, the combined influence of the bottom nylon housings mitigates extreme differences, allowing for a certain level of acoustic harmony in their overall performance. This harmony means that despite the variances in top housing materials, users can still expect a satisfying and rich typing experience when utilizing these switches, driven by the consistent qualities of their shared nylon composition in the lower half.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which makes them equally responsive when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, they differ in their bottom out forces; the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Kang White's bottom out force is higher at 58 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light touch to actuate, the Kang White provides a stiffer feel when pressed all the way down. Consequently, the Caramel Pudding can be considered the lighter option overall, making it favorable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when bottoming out may gravitate towards the heavier Kang White.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference suggests that if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Caramel Pudding may be preferable due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Kang White, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced and deeper keystroke experience, which some users may find more satisfying. Thus, if you lean towards quicker response times, the Caramel Pudding is the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial travel feel should opt for the Kang White.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches create a resonant, clacky sound signature that lends itself to a lively typing experience. This sound profile can be engaging and satisfying for those who appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback during their typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Kang White switches deliver a low-pitched, neutral typing sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, making them versatile for various environments—whether at home or in the office. The neutral nature of the Kang White sound means they won't be overly obtrusive, appealing to users who prefer a quieter, yet still vibrant typing experience. It's important to note that the ultimate sound of both switches can vary significantly depending on factors like the keyboard frame and keycap materials used.
Regarding feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are acclaimed for their exquisitely smooth typing sensation, providing a seamless experience as your fingers glide across the keys. This feature emphasizes fluidity and comfort, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the KTT Kang White switches stand out not only for their smoothness but also for their self-lubricating material, which enhances the overall tactile experience and contributes to a remarkably effortless actuation. Both switches aim to deliver a feeling of smoothness, though the Kang White’s additional self-lubrication may further refine that sensation over time.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Kang White linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding stands out with its clacky resonance and notably smooth typing experience, while the Kang White provides a low-pitched and mellow auditory feedback coupled with impressive smoothness, thanks in part to its self-lubricating design. Ultimately, your choice might depend on whether you prefer the lively clack of the Caramel Pudding or the subtlety and smooth ease of the Kang White. Regardless of choice, both options are designed to ensure an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when selecting between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and environment. If you appreciate a lighter keystroke with a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams and enjoy a resonant, clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding is the right choice for you. Its smooth typing experience makes it ideal for gaming or relaxed typing sessions where you want to revel in the satisfying acoustics of your keyboard. Conversely, if you prioritize a more robust feel with a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 58 grams and a dazzling, low-pitched sound, the KTT Kang White would be your best bet. Its self-lubricating material enhances the smoothness, making it particularly rewarding for long typing sessions or professional settings where a neutral sound profile is desired. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only your personal preference for sound and feel but also the context in which you’ll be using the keyboard.
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