HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both present appealing options for linear switch enthusiasts, yet they cater to different preferences and nuances in typing experience. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature, coupled with an exquisitely smooth feel, making them an ideal choice for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switches, produced by Haimu, are known for their high-pitched, clacky sound, along with a silky and seamless typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a sharper auditory profile. Additionally, the unique light diffuser feature of the Lightning Silver V3 enhances RGB illumination, adding visual flair to your keyboard setup, while the Caramel Pudding excels in providing a more traditional linear feel. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 utilize distinctly different materials for their switch housings, which significantly influences their acoustic profiles. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. This property allows the nylon to absorb sound better than stiffer materials, resulting in a rounded auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 employs a polycarbonate top housing that enhances sound clarity, producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant output, creating a typing experience that is both distinct and crisp. Thus, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Caramel Pudding leans towards a warm, muted sound, whereas the Lightning Silver leans toward a bright and sharp tonal quality.
Examining the bottom housings further emphasizes the differences between these two switches. The Caramel Pudding's nylon bottom housing continues the theme of depth and warmth, contributing to a bottom-out sound that is softer and less penetrating, in alignment with its top housing. This results in a cohesive acoustic signature that fosters an enjoyable typing experience, especially for users who prefer a quieter operation. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3’s polycarbonate bottom housing accentuates the overall crisper auditory output. The stiffness in polycarbonate enhances resonance at the actuation point and when bottoming out, creating a pronounced sound that many typists may enjoy, especially those who appreciate a tactile and responsive feedback.
Despite the differences in material composition and the resulting sound profiles, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 can achieve satisfactory results depending on user preference. If one prefers a rounded sound that is rich and deep, the Caramel Pudding’s nylon construction offers a superb experience. On the other hand, those who favor a brighter and more defined sound can greatly benefit from the polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3. It is important to note that while the top and bottom housings significantly influence the sound, the ultimate typing experience can also depend on factors such as keycap material and RGB lighting, inviting users to explore various combinations for personalized setups.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding requires an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it lighter and more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams, positioning it within the medium range and appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel. When it comes to bottom out forces, the Caramel Pudding reaches 52 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Caramel Pudding delivers a softer overall experience, making it ideal for those seeking a gentler touch, while the Lightning Silver V3 offers a firmer, more resistant feel that might be preferred by typists looking for assured key presses. As a result, users can expect a lighter tactile experience from the Caramel Pudding and a heavier, more robust feedback from the Lightning Silver V3.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Caramel Pudding offers a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lightning Silver V3 features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The difference of 0.2 mm may seem minimal, but it can influence user experience significantly. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances, as they allow for quicker actuation and faster response times, making the Lightning Silver V3 ideal for those looking to expedite their gameplay. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more tactile feel and a deeper key press, providing a sense of control and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth in key travel.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches present a clacky sound signature, albeit with some nuances in their tonal qualities. The Caramel Pudding switches are noted for their resonant, clacky sound, creating an auditory experience that is both engaging and lively. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 switches offer a high-pitched variation of this clacky sound, characterized by a crisp brightness that some users may prefer. The choice between these two may come down to personal preference regarding sound characteristics, as both can create a lively and satisfying typing environment, though factors such as keycap choice and keyboard build will ultimately affect the overall audio experience.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses that minimize any tactile resistance. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switches are similarly praised for their silky action, providing a seamless transition when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying linear feel, which means that users seeking a smooth typing experience will find either option appealing. The primary decision may rest on personal taste regarding sound, as the feel is likely to remain consistently positive across both switches.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches are distinguished by their clacky sound profiles, their subjective qualities diverge slightly in tonal crispness. Conversely, they both provide an effortlessly smooth typing experience that enhances user satisfaction. Ultimately, whether one prefers the more resonant nature of the Caramel Pudding or the high-pitched clarity of the Lightning Silver V3, either switch is poised to deliver an enjoyable typing experience. Thus, you can expect a delightful typing experience with either choice, adapting the final decision based on sound preference and keyboard aesthetics.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you lean towards a lighter typing experience and appreciate a satisfying combination of a resonant, clacky sound alongside an exquisitely smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding is likely your best bet. It’s particularly well-suited for casual typing or if you prefer a gentler typing force at 52 grams, making it ideal for long hours of use without fatigue. Conversely, if you are after a firmer resistance with a more robust sound profile, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a medium 60 grams bottom-out force and presents a unique high-pitched clacking sound that can energize your typing experience. Additionally, its silky smooth feel and light diffuser enhance RGB effects, making it a fantastic choice for gamers and users who enjoy a dynamic keyboard aesthetic. Therefore, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style, the sound you enjoy, and the overall look you want for your setup when making your decision.
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