HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gazzew LT both present compelling options for enthusiasts of linear switches, but they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant and clacky sound signature, alongside an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them a great choice for those who appreciate an engaging auditory experience while maintaining the benefits of linear actuation. Conversely, the Gazzew LT switches stand out not only for their enticing lilac hue but also for their deep, resonant thocky sound, providing a rich auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Their design emphasizes seamless gliding with every keystroke, which is ideal for users seeking a more muted yet satisfying feedback with a low-pitched sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gazzew LT share a striking similarity in their choice of housing materials, both employing nylon and a proprietary plastic blend, respectively. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its softer texture, which not only provides a deeper and fuller sound profile but also absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This characteristic leads to a rounder and more subdued auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics, commonly referred to as "boba plastic." This material aims to replicate the desirable sonic qualities of nylon, delivering a similarly rich and deep sound profile due to its inherent softness. Consequently, while the specific materials differ, both switches are engineered to produce a comparable auditory experience thanks to their focus on softer housing materials.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals further parallels in their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Caramel Pudding, like the Gazzew LT’s boba plastic bottom housing, is designed to enhance the overall tactile experience when bottoming out. Both materials contribute a significant weightiness to key presses, producing a rounded bottom-out sound that many users appreciate. The deep and resonant sounds generated by these materials make them particularly popular among enthusiasts who value auditory feedback alongside typing feel. When these switches are engaged, the softer nature of both materials plays a critical role in shaping the acoustic experience you get while typing.
However, the primary distinction lies in the specific materials used for the top and bottom housings, which can subtly influence the overall sound and feel of each switch. In the Caramel Pudding, both the top and bottom are constructed from nylon, creating a cohesive and uniform sound profile throughout the key press. Conversely, the Gazzew LT has a divided housing material approach, with each housing type designed to impart its unique characteristics to the switch's performance. This division enhances the outcome’s complexity: while the top housing impacts the sound upon releasing a key, the bottom housing's attributes are felt at the bottom-out moment. Ultimately, while they employ different materials, the Gazzew LT can still achieve results similar to the Caramel Pudding in terms of sound quality by carefully balancing the characteristics of its housing designs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features a moderate actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for easier key presses that are generally more suited for extended typing sessions, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize comfort during long work hours. In contrast, the Gazzew LT lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a notably heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, which indicates a more substantial resistance when fully depressed. This heavier feel may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile feedback when typing or gaming. Therefore, the Caramel Pudding switch is the lighter option in this comparison. Overall, if you favor a switch with a lighter actuation and a more comfortable typing experience, the Caramel Pudding would be the better choice, while the Gazzew LT's heavier bottom out could lead to a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which provides a more pronounced key press, appealing to those who prefer a hearty depth in their typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, catering to gamers and users who favor faster response times and more rapid key presses. As such, if you prioritize a quicker reaction when pressing keys, the LT would be the optimal choice. Ultimately, the Caramel Pudding offers a longer travel distance, making it suitable for those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing or gaming, whereas the LT delivers a shorter, snappier experience for those inclined towards quicker interactions.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature, offering a vibrant auditory experience. This contrast with the Gazzew LT switches, which are celebrated for their deep, resonant thockiness, providing a richer and more bass-heavy sound profile. The LT switches produce satisfying low-pitched thuds akin to a muted knock, enhancing the overall enjoyment of typing. Both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, with the Caramel Pudding leaning towards a higher, more vibrant tone while the LTs provide a deeper, more immersive sound. However, the final acoustics will also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses that enhance comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switches also provide a seamless glide with each keystroke, ensuring a fluid typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness, making them suitable for users who value a comfortable and uninterrupted typing motion. While the specific tactile feedback of each switch may vary, both aim to provide an enjoyable and efficient typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gazzew LT linear switches offer appealing sound and feel characteristics suited for different preferences. The Caramel Pudding leans towards a clackier sound with a smooth typing experience, while the Gazzew LT offers a deeper thocky sound and equally seamless keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer the higher-pitched vibrancy of the Caramel Pudding or the rich, bass-heavy thock of the Gazzew LT, with both promising an engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch or the Gazzew LT linear switch, it really depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-light feel with a clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice for you. It can be particularly appealing if you’re looking for a switch that offers a satisfying auditory feedback while typing, making it a great fit for casual typing or gaming where responsiveness matters. On the other hand, if you seek a more robust typing experience with a heavier bottom out force and a deeper, bassy sound profile, the Gazzew LT switch would serve you well. Its thocky auditory feedback and seamless glide are especially rewarding for those who appreciate a richer, more grounded sound when typing, ideal for long work sessions or intensive gaming. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a lighter, more responsive feel or a heavier, more resonant typing experience.
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