HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly impact both your typing experience and auditory feedback, especially with options like the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Mahjong, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant and clacky sound signature, offering an exquisitely smooth typing feel that many typists seek for a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches, distinguished by their vibrant green and white color scheme, deliver a lively, poppy sound signature coupled with an effortless typing experience that can make long hours of use feel more enjoyable. While both switches have their unique appeal—one favoring a classic auditory experience and the other focusing on an engaging aesthetic—understanding their nuances can help you make a more informed choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Dareu Mahjong exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence their typing experience. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, ensuring a commonality in sound characteristics between the two. Nylon is renowned for its soft and absorbent properties, which contribute to a deeper and rounder sound when typing. This shared bottom housing material means that users will experience a consistency in the sound profile during bottom-out, leading to a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists appreciate. Consequently, regardless of the differences in the top housings, the bottom-out sound will be deep and full, thanks to the nylon.
Contrastingly, the top housings of the two switches present a stark difference in material. The HMX Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, employing the same principles that govern its bottom housing to amplify the sound dampening effect. This results in a cohesive auditory experience optimally designed for those who prefer a subtler feedback when typing. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong uses POK (polyketone) for its top housing. POK is lauded for its smoothness and durability, providing a sharper, more clacky sound profile that is enhanced by its lower friction and superior resistance to wear and shock. This disparity implies that typists seeking a louder and more tactile response would find the Mahjong's POK material to be an exciting alternative.
Ultimately, if a typist were to switch between the two models, the different materials in the top housing would be the most noticeable aspect during typing. The nylon top of the Caramel Pudding may produce a softer sound upon key release, while the Mahjong's POK top would likely provide a crisper auditory feedback. However, since both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they will inevitably produce a consistent, full-bodied sound when the keys bottom out. Therefore, users can expect a seamless balance between the softer sound profile of the Caramel Pudding and the more pronounced feedback of the Mahjong, allowing for a diversified yet enjoyable typing experience across both models.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light and suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. This similarity means users can expect a comparable responsiveness when pressing the keys, which can enhance comfort over long durations. However, the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a firmer resistance once the key is fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Mahjong switch is unknown. This could suggest that the Caramel Pudding may offer a more pronounced tactile feedback at the bottom of the stroke compared to the Mahjong, which could either lead to a softer feel or an unknown experience depending on its undisclosed specification. Ultimately, the Caramel Pudding is the heavier option due to its specified bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, whereas the Mahjong remains unclassified in this regard.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction highlights a difference in feel and responsiveness between the two switches. The Caramel Pudding, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience, allowing for a more deliberate key press. On the other hand, the Mahjong’s shorter travel distance could be advantageous for gamers looking for quicker response times, as it requires less force to actuate. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you value a deeper engagement with each keystroke or prioritize swift input for fast-paced gaming scenarios.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 switches are known for their resonant and clacky auditory profile, creating an engaging typing experience characterized by distinct audio feedback with each keypress. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches produce a more lively and poppy sound, which can feel crisp and dynamic during use. The Caramel Pudding’s clackiness may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response, while the Masonic's vibrant pop adds a unique character to each stroke. However, it’s important to note that sound perception can also depend on the keyboard's build and keycap material, so the experience may vary.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches offer an exquisitely smooth typing experience, aiming for a seamless keypress that glides effortlessly. This smoothness stands in contrast to the Dareu Mahjong switches, which exhibit a bouncier feel with a spring-like response that provides satisfying tactile feedback, making the act of typing lively and enjoyable. Moreover, the Mahjong switches are described as mild, striking a balance that is approachable for both beginners and veterans alike, while also boasting a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel. As such, the Karate Pudding focuses more on an uninterrupted key feel, whereas the Mahjong prioritizes a dynamic, responsive sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Dareu Mahjong linear switches excel in creating enjoyable typing experiences but cater to slightly different preferences. The Caramel Pudding's distinctly clacky sound and smooth feel might attract those who appreciate a classic auditory feedback and seamless keypresses, while the Mahjong’s lively sound and bouncy, polished quality can appeal to users who prefer a more dynamic and responsive typing environment. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you value sound resonance and smoothness over liveliness and bounce, but either option can lead to a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches and Dareu Mahjong linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you thrive on audible feedback and enjoy a lively, clacky typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switches are an excellent option, especially if you're looking for a medium-light feel with a smooth typing experience. These switches excel in environments where you might want to express your keystrokes audibly without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, polished feel, the Mahjong switches could be the better choice for you. They provide a gentle typing experience suitable for both work and leisure, allowing for a smooth yet lively interaction with your keyboard. Ultimately, consider the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard and what typing experience you desire; this will guide you in selecting the switch that best complements your style.
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