HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the difference between a linear switch like the HMX Caramel Pudding and a tactile switch such as the Bsun Olive can significantly influence your typing experience. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their smooth keypress and resonant, clacky sound signature, making them ideal for those who value a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches offer a pronounced tactile feedback with a deep, rich sound, providing a more interactive and invigorating feel with each stroke, thanks to their unique long pole design. This combination of tactile responsiveness and auditory satisfaction appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback during typing. Selecting between these two can hinge on personal preference: if you prioritize a fluid typing experience, the Caramel Pudding may be your go-to, while if you seek a more engaging and snappy feel, the Bsun Olive could be the better option. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Bsun Olive switches present an intriguing comparison in their housing materials, each contributing uniquely to the typing experience. The Caramel Pudding switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a material known for its softness which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a somewhat duller yet rounder auditory experience when the keys are pressed. This characteristic is particularly desirable for users who appreciate a more subdued typing sound, enhancing the overall tactile feedback without causing excessive noise.
In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches employ POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their housing materials—also used for both the top and bottom. POM is celebrated for its durability and also brings about a unique and pleasing sound profile that, while deep, is somewhat muted compared to harder plastics. This means that while both switches aim for a deeper sound, the material properties of POM may yield a slightly different auditory experience, with potentially less dampening effect than nylon, allowing for a crisper sound when typing. However, like the Caramel Pudding switches, the Olive's POM housing minimizes noise without sacrificing the quality of feedback.
Despite their different materials, the acoustic results of both switches might closely align due to how housing materials affect sound profiles. The properties of nylon and POM, while distinct, each aim to create a space where sound is absorbed rather than amplified. Since the bottom housing primarily dictates the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches create a pleasant experience that minimizes noise upon bottoming out. The top housings will influence the release sound, and while there may be a nuanced difference in the tonal characteristics, users may find that both options provide a satisfactory sound experience, appealing to those who desire a deep, muted acoustic underfoot.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them feel equally responsive when it comes to registering a keystroke, which is beneficial for sustained typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly; the Caramel Pudding reaches a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Olive requires a heftier 65 grams to fully engage. This means that while both switches offer the same initial resistance, the Caramel Pudding feels lighter overall due to its lower bottom out force, catering to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Olive's higher bottom out force provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who favor a heavier switch for added tactile feedback. Thus, while both switches share a common actuation force, their bottom out forces define their overall weight and user experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, a notable difference emerges. The Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Olive has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Olive the shorter option, appealing to users seeking quicker response times, particularly popular among gamers. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences: the Caramel Pudding suits those who appreciate a heavier feel, while the Olive caters to users who favor rapid actuation.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 evaluating the sound characteristics of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch, it’s noted for its resonant and clacky sound signature. This lively auditory quality tends to be more pronounced during use, providing an engaging acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch produces a resonant, deep sound that is uniquely satisfying. This depth contributes to an auditory experience that feels warm and rich. Both switches, while distinct in their sound profiles, also share a dependency on external factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can further modulate the final auditory output.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, making it a pleasure to type on without any distracting textures or bumps. Contrastingly, the Olive switch boasts a pronounced tactile feedback that elevates its typing experience. With descriptors like "Accented" and "Invigorating," the Olive provides a tactile sensation that is engaging yet not overwhelming. It also stands out with its sharp tactile bump, creating a distinctly felt response with every keypress, contributing to a snappy and reactive feel. This combination makes the Olive a more tactile-centric experience, suitable for users who appreciate feedback while typing.
In conclusion, both the Caramel Pudding and Bsun Olive switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding leans towards a smooth and clacky feel, ideal for those who favor a fluid typing experience, whereas the Bsun Olive switch delivers a deep sound and pronounced tactility that enhances engagement during typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback, but either switch can yield a satisfying result in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams makes it suitable for long typing sessions where fatigue can be a concern, and its clacky sound signature enhances the auditory feedback during usage, making it especially enjoyable for those who appreciate a lively acoustic environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial tactile response and a deeper sound profile, the Bsun Olive is the way to go. With a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, these switches provide pronounced tactile feedback that is satisfying to both feel and hear, thanks to their unique design and all-POM housing. This can make them particularly appealing for typists who enjoy a more engaging and invigorating feedback with every keystroke. In essence, if you prioritize smoothness and lightness, choose the Caramel Pudding; if you lean towards a more tactile and pronounced typing sensation, opt for the Olive.
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