HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro are two linear options that cater to different preferences while sharing the fundamental smoothness typical of linear switches. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience coupled with a resonant, clacky sound signature, making them a great choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback and a light touch while typing. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches stand out for their solid and responsive keystrokes. They deliver a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out that provides clear tactile feedback, appealing to both typists and gamers who favor a more substantial feel with each keystroke. While both switches promise a clacky sound and smooth operation, their distinctive characteristics cater to different user experiences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches present a fascinating study in contrasting housing materials. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the Akko V3 opts for polycarbonate. The nylon top housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, characterized by a softer and more absorbent nature that reduces the high-pitched frequencies commonly associated with harder plastics. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Matcha Green Pro is designed to deliver sharper, higher-pitched sounds due to its stiffer structure. This differentiation in materials means that the experience of sound when typing on these switches will be distinct, making the Caramel Pudding better suited for users who prefer a muted acoustics, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro caters to those who enjoy a more vibrant and resonant auditory feedback.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, which means they share a similar acoustic impact at the bottom-out stage. The nylon material contributes to the switches’ overall sound signature by absorbing sound and providing a muted experience when bottoming out. Regardless of the contrasting top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing helps unify the feel of the two switches; users will experience a softer landing when pressing down, which reinforces the deeper sound profile characteristic of the nylon material. This common element ensures that, despite the differing auditory characteristics of the top housings, both switches produce a similar lower-end experience that provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
Ultimately, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro differ dramatically in their top housing materials, the balance of their nylon bottom housings allows for a harmonious typing experience. For typing enthusiasts, the combination of materials delivers unique tonal characteristics while maintaining an overall feeling that remains consistent. Users can expect a contrasting resonance when pressing down due to the differing top materials, but the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches perform well in delivering a full and rounded sound when bottoming out. Thus, those looking to explore various auditory experiences can find satisfaction in either switch, knowing that while they have unique facets, they also share a common backbone.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch offer different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option that is easier to press, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, delivering a more substantial typing experience favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel. As a result, users seeking a light and effortless keypress should gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, while those who desire a more pronounced resistance would benefit from the heftier Matcha Green Pro.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding offers a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. For users who prioritize a swift response time, the Caramel Pudding may be the more appealing option due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker actuation. Conversely, the V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance, may provide a more satisfying feel for those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keystroke, avoiding the abruptness that can be associated with shorter distances. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you favor responsiveness or a more pronounced typing experience.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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 linear switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature, leading to an engaging auditory experience that typists and gamers appreciate. The sharp, crisp notes produced when typing evoke a sense of liveliness and responsiveness. Similarly, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch also delivers a clacky sound, described as sharp and snappy, complemented by its bright and percussive undertones. Much like the Caramel Pudding, this switch also features a resonant quality, adding to its immersive sound profile. Both switches emphasize a lively auditory feedback during use, creating a stimulating environment for users.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, often likened to gliding across the keys. This silky sensation delivers seamless keystrokes without any hindrance, making typing effortless. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro is known for a more substantial feel, boasting a bouncy quality that provides elastic feedback on each keystroke. The sharp bottom-out of these switches also contributes a satisfying tactile response, offering clear feedback that typists and gamers find gratifying. While both switches offer a smooth experience, they cater to different preferences in feedback and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches both have appealing sound and feel characteristics, but they provide unique experiences suited to different user preferences. The clacky and resonant sound profiles of both switches create an engaging auditory atmosphere. Meanwhile, the smooth and silky feel of the Caramel Pudding contrasts with the more bouncy and substantial feedback offered by the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience or a more tactile and responsive feedback, as both will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience in their own distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and use case scenarios. If you lean towards a more relaxed typing experience, favoring a medium-light bottom-out force and a smooth, clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switches may be the ideal choice for you. They excel in providing a pleasing auditory experience while allowing you to glide through your keystrokes with ease, making them particularly suitable for casual typing or leisurely gaming sessions where comfort and sound enjoyment are priorities. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer response and appreciate a more substantial typing feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro should be your go-to switch. The slightly heavier bottom-out force and the satisfying tactile feedback make these switches great for both intense gaming and productive typing, offering a lively, bouncy sensation that keeps you engaged. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what feels best to your fingers and resonates with your typing or gaming style, ensuring that you enjoy every stroke on your mechanical keyboard.
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