HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the nuances between options can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Caramel Pudding, a linear switch celebrated for its resonant and clacky sound signature, offers an exquisitely smooth typing feel that can enhance both casual and gaming sessions. Users who appreciate auditory feedback alongside seamless keypresses might find this switch particularly appealing. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch is known for its bouncy feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring, which provides a delightful pop with each keystroke. With a polycarbonate milky top housing and a frictionless POM stem, these switches deliver a refined typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile that further contributes to a unique overall feel. While both switches share a linear classification, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences—those who favor a clacky, resonant sound vs. those who enjoy a softer, bouncier typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Orange switches, significant differences emerge between the nylon and polycarbonate components. The top housing of the Caramel Pudding is made from nylon, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This sound absorption is crucial, as it minimizes the higher frequencies and creates a more muted auditory experience that many typists find pleasing. Conversely, the KTT Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, crisper sound. This contrast in materials fundamentally shapes the acoustic character of each switch, making users experience different auditory sensations based on the choice of top housing.
Similarly, both switches feature contrasting materials in their bottom housings, where the Caramel Pudding uses nylon and the KTT Orange opts for polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing continues to provide a substantial role in dampening sound, contributing to a richer and more rounded bottom-out sound. In stark contrast, the polycarbonate bottom of the Orange switches delivers a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This difference creates distinct tactile experiences; the nylon bottom results in a soft landing when keys are fully pressed, while the polycarbonate housing gives a firmer, more pronounced finish. Thus, users of the two switches will perceive not only a difference in sound but also in the tactile feedback they receive through their keystrokes.
Ultimately, the impact of these materials extends beyond just auditory properties; it also affects overall typing experience. If the top and bottom housings feature different materials, the distinct properties contribute uniquely to the final feedback upon pressing a key. With the Caramel Pudding's nylon housing dampening higher frequencies and creating a soothing sound, alongside the Orange's polycarbonate sharpness, users will find that these switches cater to various preferences. For those seeking a deep, subdued auditory experience, the Caramel Pudding is ideal, while those who prefer a clear, pronounced feedback will be drawn to the KTT Orange. In functional terms, similar results in terms of keypress performance can be attained by combining different housing materials in custom builds, thus tailoring the final auditory and tactile outcomes to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, both exhibit similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, though there are slight differences. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and bottoms out at 52 grams, while the Orange switch has a marginally higher actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that while both switches fall into the medium-light category, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for those who type for prolonged durations or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, the KTT Orange, being slightly heavier, may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer push feel. Overall, both switches deliver a comparable experience, but with subtle distinctions in weight that cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Orange linear switches, the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Orange features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Caramel Pudding offers a more pronounced depth with its longer travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for users who enjoy a more substantial pressing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange, with its shorter 3.5 mm distance, can provide quicker actuation, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the Caramel Pudding is the longer option, offering a different tactile experience that might be preferred by those valuing a deeper key press.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 linear switches have a distinct resonant, clacky signature that adds a lively auditory element to your typing experience. This characteristic sound is appealing to those who enjoy a bit of acoustic feedback from their keyboard. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switches are designed to produce a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more subdued and mellow tone. This bass-heavy quality makes them potentially less intrusive while typing, catering to those who prefer a quieter experience. However, it’s essential to remember that the perceived sound of both switches can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes that feel luxurious under your fingers. The KTT Orange switches, on the other hand, are characterized by their bouncy and frictionless design, which provides a spring-like feedback that can enhance the tactile experience. The lively rebound upon pressing the keys can be quite refreshing, especially during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer their respective smoothness, but the Caramel Pudding focuses more on sheer smoothness, while the KTT Orange adds a dynamic bounciness that may appeal to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Orange linear switches present compelling qualities tailored to distinct typing styles. The Caramel Pudding excels with its clacky acoustic signature and ultra-smooth keystrokes, ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and seamless typing. Conversely, the KTT Orange provides a low-pitched sound and delightful bouncy feel, appealing to users seeking a quieter yet lively typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can deliver an enjoyable keyboard experience, with their unique qualities offering you different facets of what mechanical switches can provide.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you favor a more lively auditory experience along with a silky smooth typing sensation, the Caramel Pudding’s resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisite smoothness might be the way to go. This switch excels in creating a vibrant atmosphere while typing, which can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bouncier feel with a refined touch, the KTT Orange switch will likely appeal to you. Its unique long spring design provides that delightful elastic feedback, paired with a low-pitched, mellow sound that can create a calming typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or gaming. In essence, choose the Caramel Pudding if you're after an engaging sound profile and silky smoothness, while the KTT Orange is the better bet for a soft, cushioning feel combined with a tranquil auditory backdrop.
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