HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Lunar Probe stand out as two exceptional options, both classified as linear switches. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature, delivering an exquisitely smooth typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe features a novel dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, providing an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed feel with a subtle sound signature, perfect for those seeking a quieter yet satisfying tactile experience. Choosing the Caramel Pudding might appeal to those who enjoy a more audible typing experience, while the Lunar Probe could be the ideal choice for users prioritizing silent operation and stability in their keystrokes. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Lunar Probe, a distinct contrast is evident in their top housings. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound and results in a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Aesthetically, the clear nature of polycarbonate enhances the visibility of RGB lighting, giving it an extra edge in visually-oriented keyboard builds.
Despite the differences in their top housings, the bottom housings of both switches share a common material, nylon. This consistency means that both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Lunar Probe will produce a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing thanks to the nylon's sound-absorbing properties. The bottom housing is vital in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, hence both switches will offer a similar experience in that regard. This shared use of nylon creates a unique blend in the overall acoustic experience when pressing down on the keys, resulting in a warm, rounded sound that many users appreciate.
In considering the overall typing experience, the combination of differing top and matching bottom housing materials introduces a layered quality to how each switch sounds and feels during use. While the Caramel Pudding may provide a warmer sound when a key is released due to its nylon top, the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top will shine with a more pronounced clarity upon release. However, the similar bottom housing ensures that regardless of the switch you choose, the crucial tactile and auditory feedback when bottoming out remains consistent. Thus, users can enjoy the nuanced differences in sound while still experiencing the foundational characteristics brought by nylon in both models, leading to a satisfactory typing experience across the board.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches exhibit some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive and suitable for longer typing sessions without undue strain. However, the bottom out force differs between the two: the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Lunar Probe's bottom out force is slightly lighter at 50 grams. As a result, the Caramel Pudding offers a heavier feel when bottoming out, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Lunar Probe is generally perceived as lighter overall, making it a preferable choice for users who value a softer touch for extended use. Therefore, while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, the Caramel Pudding is heavier at bottoming out, whereas the Lunar Probe is lighter overall.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in an identical feel when pressing down on the keys. This similarity means that users can expect comparable performance and feedback with both switches, which can enhance typing consistency and overall user experience. Since the travel distances are equal, one won't be favored over the other in terms of how far the switch moves, ensuring that users can achieve similar results regardless of their choice between the two switches.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 deliver a resonant, clacky sound signature that can be quite pronounced. This auditory feedback adds a layer of satisfaction for those who enjoy the acoustic aspect of typing. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches exhibit a much subtler sound signature. This quieter nature can be appealing for users who prefer a more subdued typing experience, making it suitable for quieter environments or for those who simply prefer minimal audible feedback. It's important to keep in mind that the overall sound of each switch can be influenced by factors like your choice of keyboard and keycaps, so the final auditory experience may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches excel with their exquisitely smooth typing sensation, making every keystroke fluid and highly enjoyable. This smoothness can enhance both typing speed and accuracy, ideal for users who type frequently. The Gateron Lunar Probe switches also promise an incredibly smooth tactile experience thanks to Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses. While both switches prioritize a smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding's feedback is more pronounced, while the Lunar Probe is built for an effortlessly gliding sensation without any distractions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Lunar Probe switches present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding offers a clacky sound and a very smooth typing feel, perfect for those who appreciate auditory feedback alongside a delightful touch. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe provides a more subtle sound and a creamy smoothness, appealing to users who favor a quieter, steadier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both promise an overall high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more tactile experience with a bit of auditory feedback, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice due to its clacky sound signature and smooth typing feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with an emphasis on sound dampening and a consistently smooth keystroke, the Gateron Lunar Probe is your best bet. With its novel dual rail mechanism and pre-lubed linear sensation, it provides a serene environment perfect for both gaming and typing without any distraction from sound. Ultimately, consider how much you value sound versus feel in your keyboard, and let that guide your decision between the expressive, resonant Caramel Pudding and the smooth, understated Lunar Probe.
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