HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Mint 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 KTT Mint offer distinct yet appealing characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant, clacky sound signature that adds an auditory excitement to each keystroke, along with an exquisitely smooth typing feel that makes them a favorite among gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switches present a satisfyingly smooth linear experience, characterized by their long pole stem, which provides a unique poppy thockiness during use. This results in a light and fleeting type feel that many users find appealing for fast-paced typing. While both switches fall under the linear category, they embody different auditory and tactile experiences that can significantly influence your overall keyboard experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Mint switches showcase distinct methodologies in their design, particularly through their choice of materials for the top housing. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer characteristics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This sound profile is achieved through sound absorption properties inherent to nylon, which creates a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the KTT Mint employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material not only enhances clarity but also ensures a resonant sound profile that benefits from its translucency, making it particularly effective in environments where RGB lighting is utilized. Thus, while the Caramel Pudding offers a warmer tonal quality, the Mint presents a more crisp and vibrant auditory output.
When it comes to the bottom housing of both switches, both the Caramel Pudding and KTT Mint utilize nylon, leading to similarities in their performance here. Nylon's softer nature means that both switches can produce a consistent and deeper sound profile from the bottom housing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a pleasing tactile feel. The nylon construction absorbs sound effectively, creating a dull and rounded sound that contributes positively to the tactile feedback during keystrokes. This shared material in the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar effect on bottom-out sound and feel when engaging both switches, even though their overall sound profiles differ due to the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials in each switch leads to unique auditory and tactile experiences. The KTT Mint's crisp sound from the polycarbonate top is complemented by the deeper tones from the nylon bottom, resulting in a well-rounded experience that balances clarity with depth. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding's nylon top maintains that full sound while benefitting from the similar nylon bottom, fostering consistency in the tactile feedback. Therefore, while their top housings diverge significantly in their acoustic properties, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users will find familiarity in the bottom-out feel and sound across both switch types, reinforcing the nuanced interplay between materials in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similarly light touch when triggering keystrokes. This aspect makes both switches suitable for extended typing sessions, whether at work or during long gaming marathons. However, the bottom-out forces differ slightly, with the Caramel Pudding switch requiring 52 grams to bottom out, while the Mint switch has a slightly higher bottom-out force of 53 grams. This means that, although both switches are characterized as medium-light, the KTT Mint offers a marginally firmer experience when pressing the key all the way down. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter keystroke feel, both switches fit the bill, but if a more substantial bottoming-out sensation is desired, the KTT Mint would be the heavier option.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter of the two options, offering a more responsive feel that could benefit gamers or users who appreciate quicker actuation times. In contrast, the KTT Mint, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and deliberate keystroke. While both switches have their unique benefits, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference: the shorter Caramel Pudding is ideal for rapid response, while the longer Mint offers a satisfying depth for those who enjoy more substantial feedback when typing.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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 switch is recognized for its resonant and clacky sound signature, delivering an engaging auditory experience that some users find satisfying during typing sessions. This contributes to a lively atmosphere, especially in a gaming or creative setting. Conversely, the KTT Mint switch is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which leans more towards a mellow and bass-heavy tone. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, offering a more subdued auditory presence that can be favorable for both work and casual use. Ultimately, while the Caramel Pudding produces a more pronounced sound, the Mint offers a quieter and more versatile auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is lauded for its exquisitely smooth typing experience. It allows for effortless key travel that makes extended typing comfortable. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch offers a light and fleeting typing feel, which is mild and approachable. The polished nature of the Mint switch results in reduced friction and an overall refined experience, ideal for those who appreciate a sleek and responsive typing sensation. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Caramel Pudding leans towards a more luxurious smoothness, whereas the Mint focuses on a gentle, easily approachable feel.
In conclusion, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Mint switches vary significantly in their sound profiles, with the Caramel Pudding being clackier and the Mint offering a more mellow tone, they both provide engaging experiences. The Caramel Pudding excels in delivering a smooth typing feel, while the Mint provides a milder and polished tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize the lively auditory feedback of the Caramel Pudding or the refined and versatile experience of the KTT Mint.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you appreciate a more resonant, clacky sound and enjoy a thoughtfully smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switches could be the ideal choice for you. Their medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions, especially if you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback that can add a fun element to your typing. Conversely, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a more mellow and neutral sound profile with a satisfying poppy thockiness, you might gravitate towards the KTT Mint switches. Their long pole design offers a light and fleeting feel, providing an approachable typing experience that suits a variety of tasks, from gaming to everyday use. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth performance, but your choice should be guided by whether you prioritize a lively sound or a polished, low-pitched typing experience.
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