HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) present two enticing options for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their clacky, resonant sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a pleasant keystroke texture. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches offer a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivering a brighter sound and a super bouncy feeling that can enhance the tactile response of each keypress. Both switches cater to different preferences; the Caramel Pudding may appeal to users who prioritize sound and smoothness, while the Lotus (Heavy) attracts those who enjoy a bit of resistance and bounce. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), it is notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material due to its unique acoustic properties. With both models employing this softer plastic, users can expect a similarly enriched sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This commonality suggests that the typing experience will be quite comparable between the two, as the inherent sound-dampening qualities of nylon contribute to a distinctively duller and rounder sound that enhances user comfort during prolonged usage.
Despite both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) sharing nylon as their top and bottom housing materials, it is important to consider the impact of the switch's overall design and intended use. While the nylon composition ensures both switches will produce a rich sound profile, the experience may vary due to factors such as switch weight, spring tension, and housing geometry. Furthermore, the tactile feedback and crispness of the bottom-out sound can feel different based on the way these elements interact, potentially leading to a subjective preference for one model over the other. Nonetheless, users can still anticipate a satisfying and muted keystroke sound from both options, as they fundamentally share the same acoustic attributes derived from their nylon make-up.
Ultimately, the similarity in housing materials suggests that individuals seeking a specific auditory experience will find both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Lotus (Heavy) to deliver satisfying results in terms of sound quality. The consistent use of nylon means that the characteristics governing sound absorption and resonance will remain uniform, ensuring that both switches perform similarly in terms of auditory output when typing. Therefore, for enthusiasts focused on sound quality and tactile feedback, either switch will meet expectations well, providing a reliable choice based on personal preference in design and ergonomics rather than significant differences in sound performance.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch offer distinct tactile experiences due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch and the ability to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) switch requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing, which can enhance feedback during use. As a result, the Caramel Pudding is categorized as medium-light, while the Lotus is classified as medium, indicating a preference for heavier switches among certain users. Overall, the differing forces highlight the Caramel Pudding's suitability for comfort and endurance, while the Lotus caters to those who desire a firmer push with each keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Lotus (Heavy), which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users of the Caramel Pudding will experience a bit more depth when pressing the keys, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) offers a marginally shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or fast-paced typists seeking quicker keystrokes and response times. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in distance, the Caramel Pudding stands out with its longer travel, catering to those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress.
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 Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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 HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a resonant and clacky sound signature that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch also produces a bright and resonant sound, contributing to its distinctive auditory profile. Despite their differences, both switches share a crispness in sound that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, resulting in an enjoyable acoustic performance whichever you choose.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, providing a fluid keystroke that many typists and gamers find satisfying. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which lends a bouncy sensation to each keypress, making the typing experience feel lively and responsive. While both switches provide a pleasurable tactile experience, the Caramel Pudding leans toward a smoothness that may cater to those who prefer effortless typing, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) will appeal to those who enjoy a bit of feedback during their keystrokes.
In summary, while both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches offer enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Caramel Pudding excels in its smoothness and clacky sound, ideal for those who prioritize a slick typing feel, while the Lotus (Heavy) provides a satisfying bounce along with a bright resonance perfect for those who enjoy more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, both switches can yield satisfying results, allowing you to tailor your keyboard experience to your liking.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth typing experience with a resonant, clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice. It offers a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming where quick key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial keystroke with a satisfying bounce and enjoy a bright, resonant sound, the Lotus (Heavy) is likely to be more suitable for you. With a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it provides a solid feedback that can enhance your accuracy and confidence, particularly when typing for extended periods. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the types of activities you plan to engage in with your keyboard.
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