HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to diverse typing experiences and environments. The HMX Caramel Pudding switch stands out for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, proudly embodying the fun and tactile nature that many gamers and hobbyists seek. In contrast, Gateron's Mountain Top switch is tailored for office environments, providing a quiet yet not completely silent typing experience that balances discretion with a comfortably light actuation. With a focus on unobtrusive, continuous typing, the Mountain Top switch is ideal for professionals who value a subtle auditory experience while they work. While both switches belong to the linear category and offer appealing features to different types of users, each serves unique purposes—one aiming for an engaging and tactile experience, while the other prioritizes subtlety and comfort in a busy workplace. 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 Mountain Top feature nylon as their primary housing material for both the top and bottom components of the switches. This shared material choice means that both switches will deliver a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper, fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon—being a softer plastic—lead to better sound absorption, which translates to a rounder, more muted auditory experience. As a result, users can expect a similarly warm sound signature from both switches, providing a satisfying acoustic environment ideal for long typing sessions or gaming.
Since both switches utilize nylon for their housing, it can be anticipated that the tactile and acoustic properties will remain consistent between the Caramel Pudding and Mountain Top. The effect of nylon in both the top and bottom housings will contribute to a unique typing feel; however, the overall character can be influenced by design aspects or internal spring configurations that may differ. Even if the external qualities appear uniform, the tactile feedback during actuation could vary based on how each switch is calibrated or tuned. Nonetheless, the fundamental nylon material ensures that users will have an experience that evokes similar sound profiles and feels, enhancing compatibility across different setups.
It's important to recognize the role of the housing in shaping the overall switch performance. Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Mountain Top distribute sound qualities across both the top and bottom housings, albeit in slightly different manners during use. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound due to its design and material properties, whereas the top housing plays a more significant role in the release sound when a key is let go. Given that both switches are constructed from nylon, their contributions to sound and feel will collectively enhance the user's tactile and auditory experience, culminating in results that, while possibly nuanced in difference, will maintain a comparably satisfying outcome.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, one can observe a distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, defining it as a light switch. This means that, while the Caramel Pudding requires slightly more effort to trigger a keystroke, it also offers a firmer bottoming out experience. For users who prefer a lighter switch that allows longer typing sessions, the Mountain Top is the preferable choice. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial tactile feel may favor the Caramel Pudding. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference for typing experience weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we see that the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Mountain Top measures a shorter 3.4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the longer travel switch, allowing for a more pronounced depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers who benefit from the rapid actuation. Thus, while both switches serve their purposes well, the choice between them comes down to preference for depth versus responsiveness.
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 Mountain Top 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature, making them an expressive choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This quality can create an engaging typing experience, and it may resonate well in environments where sound is welcomed. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switches are designed with discretion in mind; they produce a quiet, neutral sound profile that allows for confident typing without disturbing those around you. This balance makes the Mountain Top switches particularly suitable for office settings, where a muted sound is often preferred.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches offer an exquisitely smooth typing experience, inviting an effortless flow to the keystrokes. Users can expect a defined and pleasurable tactile sensation, which can enhance productivity and enjoyment during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switches bring a range of responsive qualities, including a bouncy feedback that offers a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. The easy-to-press nature of these switches reduces finger fatigue, making them exceptionally comfortable for extended use. Additionally, their mild and subtle characteristics ensure that the overall typing experience remains accessible to a broad audience without feeling overwhelming.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches offer a lively, resonant typing experience that contrasts with the Gateron Mountain Top switches' muted sound and responsive but discreet feel. While both switches cater to different preferences and environments, they can each deliver satisfying results based on the user's needs. Whether you seek a more expressive auditory experience or a quiet, office-friendly typing solution, both options have distinct qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch really depends on your specific needs and typing environment. If you value a lively and engaging typing experience characterized by a resonant, clacky sound and a smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is a great choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams also provides a satisfying tactile feedback that can enhance your typing experience, making it ideal for casual or home use where sound is less of a concern. On the other hand, if you're primarily working in a professional, office setting where discretion is key, the Gateron Mountain Top switch may be more suitable for you. With its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, gentle resistance, and neutral sound profile, it allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue while minimizing noise, striking a balance between performance and professionalism. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prefer a more vibrant typing sound and feel, or a quieter and more subdued experience fit for collaborative environments.
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