HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Lupine 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 Durock Lupine offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth typing feel, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy a satisfying acoustic feedback and a silky keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine brings a unique two-stage long spring design that delivers balanced weight distribution during keystrokes and a more pronounced upward movement on rebound, enhancing the typing experience with a classic clacky sound profile. While the Caramel Pudding caters to enthusiasts who prioritize a smooth and resonant sound, the Lupine appeals to typists seeking a polished and consistent feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Lupine switches, a distinct difference is highlighted in the choice of top housing materials. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer characteristics, which absorb sound more effectively. In contrast, the Durock Lupine features a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, allows for a more resonant sound. This difference indicates that players using the Caramel Pudding may prefer a warmer, more muted typing experience, while those using the Lupine may enjoy a brighter and more defined sound, especially beneficial when utilized with RGB lighting due to the material's translucency.
Despite the contrasting top housing materials, both the Caramel Pudding and the Lupine share the same nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users will experience a similar depth of sound and a softer bottom-out feel due to the characteristics of the nylon material. The nylon in the bottom housing enhances the auditory feedback and adds to the overall typing experience, promoting a consistent feel across both switches. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom housing will provide a uniform foundation that emphasizes the qualities of the nylon, ensuring that typists will still experience a deeper sound when bottoming out.
In conclusion, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Lupine switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, the common nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound experience across both models during key presses. The transition between the softer, warmer sound of the Caramel Pudding and the sharper, brighter sound of the Lupine becomes less pronounced during the bottoming-out phase due to the inherent properties of nylon. As a result, users who favor softer sounds might find themselves at home with the Caramel Pudding, while those who prefer brighter feedback will appreciate the Lupine, yet both switches will maintain a similar feel when pressed down.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter and easier to press, which is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort from the fingers. In contrast, while the Lupine switch has no specified actuation force, it features a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating it has a heavier feel overall compared to the Caramel Pudding’s bottom out force of 52 grams. This heavier characteristic could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, users seeking a lighter and easier keystroke will favor the HMX Caramel Pudding, while those who appreciate a stronger push feel might lean towards the Durock Lupine for its greater bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Lupine features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm might seem minimal, but it can influence the overall feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers seeking quicker response times may prefer the Caramel Pudding for its shorter travel distance, providing a more immediate tactile feedback. Conversely, users who favor a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Lupine, appreciating its slightly greater travel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more substantial key feel.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 produces a resonant and clacky sound signature, making it an engaging choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This sound profile is likely to evoke a sense of satisfaction during use. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch also exhibits a classic clacky sound profile, but it leans towards having a more high-pitched quality. This allows for a sharp and crisp auditory experience, which some users may prefer, particularly if they are not fond of lower, bass-heavy sounds. Both switches will produce noticeable auditory cues during typing, ensuring that users can enjoy a stimulating acoustic experience.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Caramel Pudding is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience. This quality means that users can expect a seamless transition between keystrokes, enhancing the overall tactile sensation when typing. Meanwhile, the Durock Lupine linear switch stands out with its two-stage long springs, offering a consistent weight distribution during key presses, paired with a powerful rebound. The feel is described as mild, ensuring that it provides a gentle typing experience while still being polished for smooth travel. Ultimately, while the Caramel Pudding promises a smooth and fluid feel, the Lupine offers a unique balance of power and precision that many typists may find appealing.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Lupine linear switches present their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Caramel Pudding provides a resonant sound and a silky smooth typing experience, the Lupine combines a distinctively high-pitched clacky sound with a robust feel due to its two-stage springs. Both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring that regardless of the choice, users will enjoy a compelling typing experience with their distinct sound profiles and tactile characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you intend to use them. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a notable clacky sound profile that brings a certain flair to your keyboard, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions where comfort and a smooth feel are paramount. On the other hand, if you desire a more stable typing experience that balances moderate force with a polished, refined touch, the Durock Lupine might be the better option. Its heavier actuation force of 62 grams coupled with long two-stage springs provides a unique rebound sensation that gives you greater control and consistent feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, its mild sound profile suits both working environments and personal setups, making it versatile for various uses. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the auditory experience you enjoy most while using your mechanical keyboard.
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