HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Black offer two distinct linear experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding switch is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which adds an enjoyable auditory layer to your typing experience, alongside its exquisitely smooth feel that many typists and gamers appreciate. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch, while also linear, is less vocal and focuses on a solid performance without any frills, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more straightforward, silent typing experience. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts looking for a seamless keystroke, yet they diverge in their sound and tactile feedback. 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

Outemu Black Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Black both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a consistent auditory experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared use of nylon likely contributes to a smooth, rounded typing experience, as the material's softer properties absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. When typing on either switch, users can expect a similar tactile feedback and auditory result upon bottoming out, as the nylon bottom housing plays a substantial role in how the switch feels during usage. In both cases, the sound produced is not overly harsh, maintaining a comfortable and muffled resonance that appeals to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.

In contrast, the top housing materials of these switches differ significantly, which leads to diverse sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding's nylon top housing contributes to a muted and resonant sound quality, enriching the overall typing experience with its deeply audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Black’s polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper and crisper sound, highlighting the nuances of each keystroke. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant output, making it particularly advantageous for users who favor a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Thus, the variable materials of the top housing create distinct sound environments, setting the two switches apart in their performance during use.

When considering both switches together, it becomes evident that the key auditory differences stem from the top housing materials. While both the Caramel Pudding and Outemu Black utilize nylon for the bottom housing, leading to similar sound characteristics during key presses, their experiences diverge once the keys are released. The Caramel Pudding retains a softer, more subdued sound due to its nylon top, while the Outemu Black's polycarbonate top results in a brighter, clearer sound as the key is lifted. Therefore, if users are seeking to benefit from nylon’s acoustic properties without sacrificing sound clarity, the combination of housing materials in these switches demonstrates how the characteristics of each can yield varied yet complementary experiences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding requires an actuation force of 45 grams and bottoms out at 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a significantly higher actuation force of 65 grams and bottoms out at 82 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. This means that the Caramel Pudding is suited for those who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Black offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer push feel. Overall, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option while the Outemu Black is the heavier choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it becomes evident that they differ significantly. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option in this comparison, while the Outemu Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This means that press-down response on the Caramel Pudding may feel more immediate, making it a great choice for gamers who prioritize quick response times, whereas the Outemu Black's deeper travel might be more suitable for users who enjoy a more substantial key press. Therefore, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Caramel Pudding will provide a less pronounced travel experience compared to the Outemu Black.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky audio profile, which adds a lively character to your typing or gaming experience. This distinct sound signature can offer a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, enhancing the engagement in typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switches do not have a widely acknowledged sound profile, leaving their acoustic characteristics somewhat ambiguous. However, since the sound can be influenced by keycap material and the construction of the keyboard itself, it's feasible that both switches could still provide a varied sound experience based on those external factors.

When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, ensuring that each keypress glides effortlessly without any discernible bump or catch. This smoothness is often preferred by typists who enjoy a fluid and uninterrupted movement across the keyboard. In contrast, the Outemu Black switches lack a detailed description of their tactile feel, but typically, linear switches are generally characterized by a smooth actuation as well. Thus, it can be expected that they would provide a similar, albeit possibly less refined, experience compared to the Caramel Pudding.

Overall, while the HMX Caramel Pudding switches stand out with their notable sound and exceptional smoothness, the Outemu Black switches offer an undefined yet potentially comparable experience. For newcomers, the choice may come down to individual preference for the clacky sounds of the Caramel Pudding versus the more neutral, quieter response of the Outemu Blacks. Both switch types share the common linear characteristic that can cater to a smooth typing experience, making them suitable options for users seeking different auditory and tactile responses.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a smoother typing experience paired with a lively, clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice, especially for casual typing, gaming, or any activity where a lighter touch is beneficial. With its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, it allows for rapid key presses without causing fatigue, making it suitable for long typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that requires more force and offers a firmer feedback, the Outemu Black, with its heavier 82-gram bottom-out force, delivers a more deliberate typing experience. This makes it preferable for users who favor precise keystrokes, such as programmers or typists who may be prone to accidental presses with lighter switches. In summary, your choice should reflect your typing style and the sound profile you desire, allowing you to fully enjoy the benefits of your mechanical keyboard investment.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more