HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Mini i present unique options tailored to different typing experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound and exquisitely smooth feel, ideal for those who seek an engaging auditory experience while typing, making them a popular choice among gamers and enthusiasts. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switches offer a more subdued tactile feedback, characterized by a gentle tactility that excels in office settings. Their lightweight design and muted sound profile make them perfect for prolonged typing sessions without being overly distracting, catering to professionals who value both comfort and concentration. Both switches have their advantages, with the Caramel Pudding appealing to those who love vibrant sounds and smoothness, while the Gateron Mini i prioritizes a serene typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Mini i switches both utilize nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom housings, which results in similar acoustic and tactile properties. Nylon is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from this quality, as the use of nylon dampens the sharper sounds typically produced by harder plastics, allowing users to enjoy a more muted and rounded acoustic character. This shared material choice indicates that users of either switch can expect comparable sound signatures, enhancing the overall typing experience with a softer auditory feedback.
While both the Caramel Pudding and Mini i feature nylon housings, it is essential to consider how the consistent use of this material impacts the switch performance. The bottom housing of a switch is critical for its bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing predominantly influences the sound when keys are released. Since both switches share similar nylon properties in both housings, they will naturally produce comparable results in terms of feedback and sound, regardless of the brand. Users can expect these similarities to manifest in a cohesive experience where the essence of the nylon material retains its dominance throughout all aspects of typing.
In summary, the Caramel Pudding and Gateron Mini i switches exemplify the benefits of nylon housing in mechanical switches. The uniformity of nylon across both the top and bottom housings translates to a consistent typing experience that emphasizes sound dampening and tactile feedback. As a result, users who sample either switch can anticipate similar auditory responses and feel when typing, reinforcing the idea that both switches deliver a high-quality, satisfying experience through their shared nylon composition.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Mini i features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Gateron Mini i is the lighter option overall, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where less fatigue is desired. Conversely, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding due to its slightly heavier forces. Overall, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Caramel Pudding offers a more pronounced resistance, appealing to those who enjoy heavier typing feels, whereas the lighter Mini i caters to users looking for ease and comfort in prolonged usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, the Caramel Pudding offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mini i provides a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you prefer a more pronounced keypress and a bit of depth, the Caramel Pudding would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you favor quicker response times that might cater to gaming preferences, the Mini i's shorter travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that feels deeper and more substantial, the HMX Caramel Pudding is the way to go, while the Gateron Mini i caters to those who prioritize swift actuation.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 introduces a distinctive resonant and clacky sound signature that many users find satisfying. This auditory profile can enhance the typing experience, giving it an engaging acoustic layer, particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the "clicky" aspects of typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch presents a more muted sound profile, which is intentionally designed to cater to quieter environments such as offices. Its neutral sound does not draw too much attention, allowing users to type without disturbing those nearby while still retaining a pleasing audio feedback that assures the user of their keystrokes.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience. With no tactile bumps typical of linear switches, they provide a continuous and fluid keypress that many typists find delightful. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switches offer a mild yet satisfying tactile feedback, characterized by gentle resistance that makes typing feel bouncy and responsive. This quality not only enhances comfort during prolonged typing sessions but also reduces finger fatigue, making it particularly ideal for professional environments. The tactile nature of the Mini i switches allows for clear feedback without being overly pronounced, providing a subtle but effective typing experience.
Overall, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Mini i switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you seek a lively typing experience with a resonant sound, the Caramel Pudding would likely be your choice, while the Gateron Mini i is better suited for quieter environments with its neutral sound and gentle tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer unique strengths—smoothness and resonance versus gentle tactility and quietness—allowing newcomers to select based on their specific typing needs and environment preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you tend to enjoy a more dynamic typing experience with a resonant, clacky sound that adds character to your setup, the Caramel Pudding is a great pick, especially if you favor a smooth keystroke and can handle a bit of noise. This switch is ideal for gaming or creative work that thrives on that tactile feedback. Conversely, if you are seeking a quieter option that still offers a satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Mini i is perfect for environments like offices or shared spaces where you want to minimize disruption. Its lightweight actuation makes long typing sessions more comfortable, and the gentle tactility keeps the experience engaging without overwhelming you with sound. Ultimately, consider your daily use—whether you prioritize an expressive sound and feel or a subtle, pleasant typing experience—and choose the switch that aligns best with your workflow.
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