HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Brown offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an excellent choice for users who crave an engaging auditory and tactile response as they type. On the other hand, Cherry MX Browns deliver a blend of subtlety and tactility; they provide a relatively light typing experience with gentle bumps to signal actuation, accompanied by subdued audio feedback. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a more understated switching experience without sacrificing feedback. Each switch presents its own set of advantages: whether you lean towards the lively sound and smoothness of the Caramel Pudding or the subtle yet satisfying tactile feedback of the MX Brown, your choice will significantly affect your 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Brown switches share a significant similarity when it comes to their housing materials, as both feature nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This commonality contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The use of nylon, which is a softer plastic compared to harder materials, means that both switches are designed to absorb sound more effectively. This absorption creates a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed, enhancing the overall tactile experience for users. Thus, typists can expect similar acoustic results from both switches, rooted in the properties of nylon.
While the nylon housing materials are identical in both switches, the overall typing experience may still differ due to the unique design and mechanism of each switch. The Caramel Pudding may offer a slightly different tactile feedback compared to the Cherry MX Brown due to variations in internal components, despite utilizing the same housing material. The interaction between the bottom housing, which predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, and the top housing, which impacts the sound when keys are released, can lead to a nuanced experience between the two switches that is distinct from one another.
Ultimately, users can expect a great deal of consistency in the acoustic characteristics due to the shared nylon construction of both the Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Brown switches. Despite possible differences in feel or actuation forces, the core sound profile remains similar. The switches are likely to produce a warm and muted acoustic signature, thanks to the nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. Typists seeking a pleasant auditory experience will find both options attractive, as they capitalize on the strengths of nylon, even in the context of different design philosophies.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive for triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Caramel Pudding requires 52 grams to fully depress, whereas the MX Brown demands a slightly heavier 55 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar experience during regular typing, users of the Cherry MX Brown may experience a more substantial push feel at the endpoint of key travel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the Caramel Pudding is slightly lighter overall, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer extended typing sessions with less effort, while the Cherry MX Brown may appeal to users seeking a firmer response and more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it becomes clear that the two differ significantly. The Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a key aspect of each switch's design: the shorter travel distance of the Caramel Pudding switch may cater to gamers and users looking for quick actuation and responsiveness, making it suitable for fast-paced actions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown's greater travel distance offers a more deliberate feel, which might be preferred by typists or those who enjoy a more tactile experience while typing. Thus, for those seeking quicker response times, the Caramel Pudding switch is the ideal choice, while those who favor deeper feedback will find the Cherry MX Brown more suitable.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 switch produces a resonant, clacky signature that makes each keystroke distinctly audible and characterful. This sharp, lively sound can provide an engaging auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a more subdued sound profile, often described as bassy and low-pitched. Their gentle audio feedback reflects a subtle richness without overwhelming the user, making them an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Caramel Pudding leans toward a more expressive tone, whereas the MX Brown emphasizes a softer, understated approach.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless key presses without interruption. This smoothness fosters a sense of fluidity that many typists appreciate, particularly those who prefer a linear switch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are distinctively textured, providing a tactile feedback that some users prefer for its engaging sensation. This tactile bump offers a sense of reassurance with each key press, making it particularly suited for users who enjoy a connection to the act of typing. While these two switches exemplify different characteristics in terms of tactile sensation, the choice between smoothness and subtle tactile feedback ultimately comes down to personal preference.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Brown switches offer contrasting auditory and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding is defined by its vibrant, clacky sound and smooth typing feel, making it a favorite for those who enjoy dynamic feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown presents a more muted sound with a discernible tactile bump, catering to those who appreciate subtlety in their typing experience. The choice between the two will largely depend on what qualities resonate most with the user, and whether they prioritize the exuberance of sound and feel or the calm intimacy of a more subdued option.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch should largely depend on your personal preferences and the context of your usage. If you appreciate a smooth and quiet typing experience with a clacky auditory feedback, the Caramel Pudding switch is ideal for you, especially if you enjoy the sensation of quick, responsive keystrokes ideal for gaming or rapid typing. Its medium-light actuation and unique sound signature can create an engaging and enjoyable typing environment, particularly for those who might be more sensitive to auditory distractions. On the other hand, if you find value in a more subtle, tactile feel for your everyday tasks—such as typing long documents or engaging in programming—the Cherry MX Browns may be more suited to your needs. Their gentle tactile bump and low-pitched, bassy sound provide a comforting yet professional typing experience that many users appreciate for both work and leisure. Ultimately, consider the type of activities you’ll be doing and what sensory feedback you prefer to guide your decision between these two excellent switches.
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