HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between different types based on their typing preferences and experiences. The HMX Caramel Pudding switches stand out in the linear category, renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing feel and a resonant, clacky sound signature that many users appreciate for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switches bring a breath of fresh air to the clicky switch landscape, showcasing advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems to deliver a satisfying classic click while maintaining impressive smoothness during key presses. While the Caramel Pudding offers a seamless experience perfect for those seeking quiet efficiency, the Melodic caters to users who revel in tactile feedback and a distinct auditory cue. Both switches have their unique attributes that cater to different user preferences; 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
N/A
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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Melodic switches present both similarities and differences that influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, while the Melodic utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon, known for its softer composition, tends to absorb more sound, creating a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This contrasts sharply with polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the switch's resonance. This fundamental difference in materials dictates the overall acoustic personality of each switch, with the Caramel Pudding offering a more muted and round sound compared to the bright clarity produced by the Melodic.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, utilizing nylon. This consistency means that regardless of the differing properties of their top housings, both switches will exhibit similar characteristics in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile that is consistent in both switches, showcasing how the bottom housing can bridge the auditory differences presented by the two top materials. Consequently, both switches will deliver a more rounded feel when pressed down, which may appeal to users who enjoy a softer bottoming experience.
Ultimately, the effect of having different materials for the top housing influences each switch's overall sound signature, while the identical nylon bottom housing serves as a unifying feature that dictates the bottom-out experience. When comparing these two switches, the Caramel Pudding emerges with a warm, subdued sound thanks to its nylon top, whereas the Melodic provides a bright, crisp sound due to its polycarbonate top. However, both switches will ensure a satisfying tactile feedback through their soft nylon bottom housing, promoting a similar bottoming feel that can enhance user satisfaction across both options. Thus, while users may choose between the two based on their preferred sound profile, the nylon bottom does guarantee a shared, enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that may influence user preference. The Caramel Pudding switch has a moderate actuation force of 45 grams, which means it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which indicates a firmer feel upon full key travel. This makes the Melodic switch heavier in terms of bottom out force at that point of maximum depression. Consequently, while the Caramel Pudding provides a lighter and more responsive experience overall, the Melodic switch offers a more substantial and tactile push feel, likely appealing to users who enjoy a stronger typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, a clear difference emerges. The Caramel Pudding features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Melodic boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users who select the Caramel Pudding may experience quicker actuation, suitable for fast-paced gaming and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Melodic’s longer travel distance can provide a more substantial keypress, which some users might prefer for a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, those who favor a swift response should opt for the Caramel Pudding, whereas individuals who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke might gravitate towards the Gateron Melodic.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature. This type of sound offers a certain charm in its higher-pitched tones, reminiscent of a more pronounced auditory experience that can enhance the overall typing engagement. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch introduces a unique auditory experience with its crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping through piles of autumn leaves, coupled with a sharp and clean sound profile. Users can expect a satisfying auditory feedback that is both crisp and impactful, although the exact experience can vary depending on the keyboard, keycaps, and user environment.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding is known for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke that allows for effortless typing. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and accuracy, ideal for those who prioritize a gliding feel under their fingers. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery sensation combined with invigorating feedback, where users experience both smooth actuation and pronounced tactile sensations. This combination delivers a snappy and reactive typing feel that makes every keystroke feel engaging and lively.
In summary, while the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch provides a smooth and clacky auditory experience, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch introduces a more textured auditory profile with its crunchy clicky sound. Both options present unique tactile experiences, with the Caramel Pudding focusing on smoothness, whereas the Melodic melds buttery fluidity with invigorating feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches may come down to whether you prefer a linear feel and resonant sound or a clicky and invigorating typing experience, as both will provide pleasurable and engaging results.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your typing habits and sound preferences. If you favor a smooth and quiet typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Caramel Pudding might be the better choice for you. Its distinctively resonant sound provides an enjoyable auditory experience while maintaining a silky keystroke feel, making it perfect for extended typing sessions, especially in quieter settings. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and the satisfying sound of clicks, the Gateron Melodic is likely more your speed. With a firmer bottom-out force of 60 grams, it delivers an invigorating experience that brings a bit of nostalgia for traditional clicky sounds. Its buttery smoothness enhances each keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory and tactile sensation while typing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and silence or tactility and sound, ensuring you find the switch that perfectly complements your typing style.
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