HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Luciola stand out as compelling options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking auditory feedback along with a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola captivates with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and offers a medium heft that delivers a smooth and bouncy typing sensation, complemented by a distinctive sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. While both switches fall under the category of linear switches, they bring different auditory and tactile experiences to the table, appealing to contrasting user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding switches and the Gateron Luciola switches, it is clear that they utilize different materials that yield distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches come equipped with nylon top and bottom housings, which are known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer nature. This allows the material to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic quality. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switches feature a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, characterized by a thinner and more pointed sound profile that is described as clacky. This difference in material composition leads to a stark variation in the auditory feedback when typing on each switch.
Despite these differences, the overall typing experience can be moderated by the unique roles of the top and bottom housings. The Caramel Pudding's nylon bottom housing will provide a softer landing with a muted sound on bottoming out, while its nylon top housing will ensure a more subdued release sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola, with its INK blend bottom and top housings, will create a relatively higher-pitched feedback during both the act of bottoming out and releasing the key. This duality illustrates how each switch can offer a distinct auditory profile, which is particularly noticeable in environments where sound is a priority for the user.
Ultimately, both switch types achieve their unique auditory experiences by leveraging the individual characteristics of their respective housing materials. If one were to experiment by combining the top housing of the Caramel Pudding with the bottom housing of the Luciola, or vice versa, there could potentially be a blending of their sound qualities. However, the nylon material’s capacity to absorb sound might compete against the higher-pitched clarity of the INK blend, leading to an intriguing yet unpredictable result. Therefore, while their distinct materials contribute to differentiated acoustic profiles, certain combinations could yield hybrid results that encapsulate the beneficial aspects of each housing type.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Luciola linear switches, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Luciola's 55 grams, making it easier for typists and gamers who prioritize comfort and long sessions to use. Additionally, the Caramel Pudding's bottom out force is 52 grams, lighter than the Luciola's 60 grams. This means that users of the Caramel Pudding will experience a softer end feel when fully pressing the key, while those with the Luciola will encounter a firmer bottoming out sensation. Ultimately, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, appealing to those who prefer ease of use, while the Luciola provides a heavier, more substantial typing feedback for those who enjoy a firmer key feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down a key featuring either switch, users can expect the same physical feedback and key travel. With both switches having the same distance, players and typists alike can achieve similar results in terms of responsiveness and overall feel, making either option a suitable choice for those who prefer a linear switch. Since the travel distances are equivalent, users can seamlessly transition between keyboards equipped with these switches without noticing a difference 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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 switch is characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature, which can provide an enjoyable auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This sharp and percussive quality is reminiscent of traditional mechanical switches and conveys a sense of responsiveness with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola has a more complex auditory profile, incorporating elements like a hollow sound reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken, combined with clacky and chirpy notes. This unique blend gives the Luciola a lively sound that is both high-pitched and marbly, making it stand out among other linear switches. The choice between these two ultimately depends on whether you prefer the straightforward clackiness of the Caramel Pudding or the multifaceted tones of the Luciola.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding is known for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which enhances efficiency and comfort during long typing sessions. This seamless operation makes it an appealing option for users who desire fluidity in each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola offers a medium heft that provides a snappy and responsive typing experience. The combination of smooth and bouncy characteristics contributes to a lively feel, allowing each keystroke to feel engaging and satisfying. While both switches deliver a high-quality experience, the Caramel Pudding leans towards pure smoothness, whereas the Luciola emphasizes a dynamic, tactile response.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Luciola switches offer different auditory and tactile experiences that cater to varied preferences. The Caramel Pudding excels with its clacky sound and smooth feel, perfect for those who appreciate traditional mechanical switch characteristics, while the Luciola stands out with its unique sound profile and snappy, bouncy typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will shape your typing enjoyment, whether you lean towards the classic resonance of the Caramel Pudding or the distinctive acoustic signature and dynamic feedback of the Luciola.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter actuation and are drawn to a more engaging auditory experience, the Caramel Pudding switches with their delightful clacky sound and smooth typing feel might be the perfect fit for you. These switches shine especially in casual typing scenarios and gaming, where you can appreciate their medium-light force and the enjoyable resonance they produce. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and are enticed by unique aesthetics, the Gateron Luciola switches would be a better choice. Their medium force provides a more substantial typing experience, and the smooth and bouncy feedback can make them excellent for both work and gaming environments. Additionally, their glow-in-the-dark feature adds a fun visual element that could enhance your setup. Ultimately, weigh the sound profile, tactile response, and visual appeal of each switch to find the one that resonates with your typing style and comfort.
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