HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Cherry MX Speed Silver present distinct choices that cater to varied user preferences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing or gaming. Its linear design makes it an attractive option for users who favor quiet operation without sacrificing performance. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for speed, featuring a full-height design that allows for rapid activation and low spring resistance, making it a top choice for competitive gamers who require instantaneous response times. Its textured, thocky feedback adds a satisfying depth to each keystroke, enhancing the overall gaming experience. While both switches offer smooth linear action, the Caramel Pudding excels in auditory pleasure and tactile feedback, whereas the Speed Silver prioritizes speed and agility. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches share a notable similarity in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is preferred for its sound-dampening properties, leading to a richer typing experience. The nylon construction in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is attributed to nylon's relatively softer texture compared to harder plastics. Because of this similarity, users can expect a comparable acoustic performance from both switches, characterized by a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience.
While the material composition in both the Caramel Pudding and MX Speed Silver is the same—nylon throughout—there can still be different tactile or acoustic experiences based on differences in design or structure that are not detailed in the material description. Each housing influences the sound produced during key presses differently: the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Hence, though both switches feature nylon that softens and absorbs sound, variations in their physical designs or switch mechanisms may create unique auditory and tactile experiences during use.
Ultimately, the consistency of nylon in both the top and bottom housings ensures that users will benefit from a uniform sound profile and feel. Those seeking deeper, fuller sounds in their typing experience will appreciate the performance of both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches. Despite potential design nuances that cater to different user preferences, the fundamental characteristics imparted by the nylon material guarantee a satisfying and similar acoustical experience across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light and suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The bottom out force of the Caramel Pudding is 52 grams, indicating that while it is easy to actuate a key, it requires slightly more force to press down completely, providing a tactile feedback that some users may appreciate. Conversely, the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown, leaving a gap in directly comparing how it feels when fully depressed. Based on the available information, the Caramel Pudding gives a medium-light feel overall, while the exact resistance of the MX Speed Silver when bottoming out remains uncertain. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch for comfort during long use, both options are comparable in actuation force, but the overall experience may vary depending on the unknown bottom out force of the Speed Silver.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Caramel Pudding featuring a distance of 3.6 mm and the Speed Silver at 3.4 mm. This makes the Speed Silver the shorter option, offering slightly quicker response times that can be particularly beneficial for gamers looking for efficiency in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper tactile experience. While both switches feature relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, the 0.2 mm difference can impact the user's typing and gaming experience, with the Caramel Pudding offering a bit more resistance and depth.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 known for its resonant, clacky sound signature, providing an auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging. This characteristic can enhance the typing experience, making it lively and enjoyable. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver delivers a thocky sound, producing a deep and rich tone that offers a satisfying auditory response with each keystroke. Additionally, it has a low-pitched quality that contributes to a mellow and bass-heavy sound. The overall sound experience will greatly depend on the keyboard design and keycap material, but these two switches will provide distinctly different auditory feedback, appealing to different preferences.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Caramel Pudding is renowned for an exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that many prefer for long typing sessions or general use. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for a textured feel that can introduce a level of sensation due to noticeable friction during key presses. While this texture might be seen as a drawback for some who favor a completely smooth experience, it can provide tactile feedback that some users prefer for gaming or typing, as it keeps them engaged with the action. Thus, while the Caramel Pudding advocates for smoothness, the Speed Silver offers an alternative experience that can feel more tactile.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding switch and Cherry MX Speed Silver switch cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Caramel Pudding's clacky sound and smooth feel contrast with the Speed Silver's thocky auditory response and textured touch. If you're looking for lively sounds and a smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is a compelling choice. However, if rapid response and a tactile sensation are prioritized, the Speed Silver might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, but both options can deliver satisfying typing experiences in their respective ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use case. If you’re a casual typist or someone who appreciates a smooth, clacky sound while typing, the Caramel Pudding switches may be the better option for you. Their medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams provides a comfortable typing experience, and the resonate sound signature offers auditory enjoyment that can enhance your overall experience. On the other hand, if you're a competitive gamer seeking rapid response times, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches may serve you best. Their quick actuation and low spring resistance allow for instant key presses, which make them an essential choice in high-stakes environments where every moment might determine the outcome of your game. The deeper thocky sound and textured feel of the Speed Silver can cater to those who prefer a more tactile feedback while they play. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize auditory satisfaction and smooth typing or speed and responsiveness in gaming scenarios.
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