HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Cherry MX Silent Red

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Cherry MX Silent Red offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and environments. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an appealing option for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switches maintain a slightly heftier feel akin to the classic MX Red but operate in silence, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments without sacrificing the satisfying typing experience that linear switches are known for. While both switches are designed for smooth key presses that can enhance typing and gaming performance, their sound profiles and tactile feedback are noteworthy points of contrast. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

Cherry MX Silent Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.00

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Silent Red switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which significantly influences their acoustic and tactile performance. This shared material choice means that users can expect a similarly rich sound profile from both switches. The nylon construction absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This design feature creates a more subdued and rounded sound, making either switch an excellent choice for users who prioritize a quieter typing experience while maintaining a satisfying keystroke feedback.

While the top and bottom housings of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Cherry MX Silent Red are the same, it’s important to recognize how each housing can affect the overall feel of the switch. With both switches exhibiting the same nylon material in their housings, the sound produced when the key is pressed down will have a muted quality due to the inherent properties of nylon. However, depending on how each switch is constructed beyond the housing materials, users may ultimately perceive differences in the typing experience. For instance, the weight or spring type inside each switch may differ and influence how the typing feel translates, even when the acoustic properties remain consistently rich.

Though the nylon material in both switches leads to similar sound absorption qualities, the nuances of each switch’s design and performance characteristics may lead to a varied tactile sensation when typing. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystroke, while the top housing influences the sound during release. Therefore, even if the materials are the same, any ergonomic differences in the internal mechanics or design specifics can create distinct typing experiences. Users opting for either switch can expect somewhat comparable acoustic profiles, but might notice subtleties in typing responsiveness that would encourage them to choose one over the other based on their personal preferences.

Weight

The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means that users will experience comparable typing feedback during normal use. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a notable difference. The Caramel Pudding has a defined bottom out force of 52 grams, indicating that it provides a firmer feel at the end of a keystroke, which some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Silent Red is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how it feels when fully pressed down. Therefore, while both switches are lightweight in terms of actuation, the Caramel Pudding is the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, making it a potentially better choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback upon key press.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we see that the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This indicates that the Caramel Pudding is the shorter of the two options. For users who prioritize quicker response times, the Caramel Pudding may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, promoting a more immediate feel during key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced depth may find the Cherry MX Silent Red's 3.7 mm travel distance more satisfying, as it allows for a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, making the choice between them dependent on whether one seeks responsiveness or depth in their typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches produce a resonant, clacky sound signature, characterized by a playful, lively auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This is in direct contrast to the Cherry MX Silent Red, which is designed for those seeking a quieter experience. The Silent Red maintains a muted profile, effectively minimizing the noise associated with traditional mechanical switches while still offering a thocky, low-pitched sound. This makes it a great choice for those who want tactile feedback without the distraction of loud keystrokes, particularly in shared or noise-sensitive environments.

When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This contrasts sharply with the Cherry MX Silent Red, which, while providing a satisfying experience reminiscent of the MX Red, introduces a textured feel. This texture offers a slight friction that some users might prefer for added tactile feedback, but it diverges from the buttery smoothness that defines the Caramel Pudding.

In conclusion, while both switch options present unique qualities, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you appreciate a lively, clacky sound and a smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding switches will serve you well. Conversely, if you need a quieter option without sacrificing tactile enjoyment, the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a suitable alternative with its muted, textured characteristics. Depending on your priorities—sound and feel—either choice can lead to a gratifying typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific use case and personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light feel and a more resonant, clacky sound signature in your typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switch is likely the better option for you. Its exquisite smoothness paired with a lively auditory feedback can enhance your overall satisfaction, especially if you appreciate a bit of auditory flair in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment or prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red is a suitable choice. It retains the satisfying performance of the classic MX Red while incorporating a muted sound profile, making it ideal for shared spaces or late-night typing sessions. In essence, choosing between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize a lively auditory experience with the Caramel Pudding or a quieter, more focused vibe with the Silent Red.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Silent Red Linear

$6.00

$4.15 per 10

Learn more