HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The HMX Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory feedback alongside an exquisitely smooth typing experience. For those who relish a more tactile and engaging feel while typing or gaming, these switches may be the ideal choice. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to their all-POM construction, which minimizes friction and maximizes comfort. With a low-pitched and neutral sound signature, these switches can be particularly appealing to users seeking a quieter and more understated typing experience, making them well-suited for office environments or late-night gaming sessions. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, yet they deliver distinct auditory and tactile experiences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT MoonRosa, both use distinct plastics that contribute to their unique auditory profiles. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top and bottom housing, renowned for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer texture. This relative softness allows nylon to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa utilizes POM for its top and bottom housings. While POM is also adept at producing a deeper sound profile, it offers a unique twist in that its sound is more muted and refined compared to nylon. This fundamental difference in material choice can affect both the tactile and auditory experiences when typing.
Despite these differences, there are notable similarities in the expected sound profiles for each switch due to the shared qualities of both housing types. For instance, both nylon and POM have a softer texture compared to harder plastics, allowing them to absorb sound, thereby contributing to a less abrasive and more pleasant typing experience. Each switch's bottom housing will dominate the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon release—both configurations aim to create a satisfying auditory experience, albeit through varying atmospheric properties. Therefore, though the specific sound characteristics differ, both the Caramel Pudding and MoonRosa switches may elicit similarly desirable results in terms of depth and fullness.
Moreover, the interaction between these housing materials can provide an equally compelling typing experience, regardless of material differences. For users who prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback, the Nylon switch of the Caramel Pudding and the POM switch of the MoonRosa deliver a satisfying engagement by harnessing their respective plastic properties. Users may find that switching between the two provides a nuanced perception of sound and feel, giving them an opportunity to appreciate the subtle differences in sound while enjoying the deeper, absorbing profile that characterizes both. In this way, despite the disparities, both switches effectively cater to enthusiasts looking for quality in their mechanical keyboard experience, generating rich soundscapes and engaging tactile interactions.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch present distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, impacting the typing experience for users. The Caramel Pudding switch requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the MoonRosa switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This distinction means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended durations may gravitate towards the MoonRosa, while those seeking a more substantial feel in their keystrokes might favor the Caramel Pudding. Overall, the MoonRosa's lighter force may be preferable for long gaming sessions or office work, while the Caramel Pudding will likely appeal to those who favor a bit more resistance when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, the Caramel Pudding measures 3.6 mm, while the MoonRosa is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that, while both switches provide a fairly similar experience, the Caramel Pudding offers a bit more depth, which can result in a more satisfying tactile feel for users who prefer a heartier travel. On the other hand, the MoonRosa's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster key activation. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference: if you favor a deeper feel and do not mind a slightly longer key press, the Caramel Pudding would be preferable, whereas if you lean towards quick responsiveness, the MoonRosa is the better choice.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
The sound profile of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by a resonant and clacky signature, providing a lively auditory feedback that many typists appreciate for its engaging quality. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that tends to be more mellow and subdued, creating a neutral sound signature that may be more suited for those who prefer a quieter and less intrusive typing experience. It's essential to keep in mind that the sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps utilized, so your final auditory result could vary based on these factors.
In terms of tactile feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exquisite smoothness, delivering a fluid experience that enhances typing speed and comfort. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switches provide what can be described as a mild typing experience, striking a balance that offers an approachable feel. They are easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable and less straining option during long typing sessions. The buttery smoothness of the MoonRosa adds a layer of satisfaction, allowing users to type effortlessly, thereby reducing finger fatigue.
In summary, while the HMX Caramel Pudding switches offer a clacky sound and very smooth feel, the KTT MoonRosa switches present a more subdued auditory experience paired with a gentle, mild feel that emphasizes ease of use. Each switch provides distinct advantages; your choice between them will depend on personal preference regarding sound and typing experience. Ultimately, if you’re seeking an engaging auditory feedback with smooth action, the Caramel Pudding may be the way to go, but if you prefer a quieter, buttery typing experience that won’t wear you out, the MoonRosa is an excellent alternative.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT MoonRosa linear switches, consider your personal preferences and the typing experience you wish to achieve. If you enjoy a more clacky sound profile and a medium-light resistance that provides a satisfying yet smooth typing feel, the Caramel Pudding would be the right choice for you. It's particularly well-suited for users who appreciate an engaging auditory experience while typing, making it ideal for both gaming and everyday use. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light activation force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral low-pitched sound profile, the KTT MoonRosa would be more suitable. Its easy-to-press nature minimizes effort and maximizes comfort, which is particularly advantageous for long typing sessions or for someone who values a softer touch. Ultimately, by assessing your tactile and auditory preferences, you can select the switch that best fits your mechanical keyboard needs.
Mentioned in this article
