HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and intended use. The HMX Caramel Pudding switches, known for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing experience, offer a linear feel that minimizes tactile feedback while providing a consistent keystroke for those who enjoy rapid typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switches cater to typists who cherish a more tactile and audible experience, delivering a satisfying “click” with every keystroke, enhancing the typing rhythm and providing excellent feedback for each action. While the Caramel Pudding switches may be favored for gaming due to their fluidity, the Outemu Blue switches are often preferred by writers and programmers who appreciate the engaging sound and tactile feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Blue switches, it is evident that their sound profiles will vary significantly based on the materials used in their top housings. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The characteristics of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder and less piercing acoustic profile. In contrast, the Outemu Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate, as a stiffer material, enhances resonance and clarity, making the acoustic output more pronounced. This distinction in materials not only defines the auditory experience but also affects the overall typing sensation associated with each switch.
Interestingly, both the Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Blue share nylon bottom housings. This commonality means that, regardless of the differences in top housing, both switches will exhibit similar acoustic characteristics from the bottom. As nylon is a classic housing material known for its sound-absorbing properties, users will experience the same deep and full sound profile when the keys are bottomed out in both switches. Thus, even when the top housing material diverges in composition, the shared nylon bottom ensures a consistent base for sound quality, allowing both switches to provide a satisfying tactile experience.
In summary, while the top housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Blue switches produce contrasting sound profiles, their bottom housings unify the experience by offering similar auditory foundations. The nylon bottom of both switches enhances the depth of sound when keys bottom out, but the true character of each switch is shaped by its top housing material. If one is aiming for a balanced sound or a more resonant experience with RGB lighting effects in mind, the choice between the two ultimately hinges on whether one prefers the rich warmth of nylon or the crisp clarity of polycarbonate in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in actuation force. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it medium-light, while the Outemu Blue requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams, indicating it is heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Caramel Pudding’s bottom out force is 52 grams, which represents a decisive feel upon bottoming out. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Outemu Blue is unspecified, leaving a gap in comparison. For users seeking a lighter typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is the preferable choice, particularly suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, typists who favor a more substantial push experience will find the Outemu Blue more suitable, due to its heavier actuation force, despite the unknown bottom out specification. Overall, while the Caramel Pudding offers a more gentle typing experience, the Outemu Blue caters to those who desire a firmer tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Blue measures at 4.0 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding offers a shorter travel distance, which can contribute to quicker response times that many gamers appreciate. In contrast, the Outemu Blue with its longer travel distance provides a more tactile and "hearty" feel, which some users may find preferable for a comfortable typing experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a more responsive keypress, the Caramel Pudding would be the better option, whereas the Outemu Blue caters to those who enjoy a deeper key travel sensation.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 switch is characterized by a resonant and clacky sound signature that enhances the auditory experience while typing. This distinct sound profile can make typing more enjoyable and engaging. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch, while lacking a specific description, is typically known for its crisp and pronounced click sound that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback in both typing and gaming. The click mechanism in the Blue switch adds a layer of auditory feedback that can be satisfying for those who prefer an audible signal with each keystroke. It’s important to remember that the overall sound dynamics can vary depending on factors such as the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is praised for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which many typists and gamers find appealing as it facilitates effortless key presses. Smoothness often contributes to less finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch, while not explicitly detailed in terms of feel, is commonly recognized for its tactile bump and click mechanism, which provides a distinctly different experience. The tactile feedback in the Blue switch offers a more pronounced interaction during typing, making it a preferred choice for those who appreciate a tactile feel, especially when switching between keystrokes.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Blue switches cater to different user preferences in both sound and feel. The Caramel Pudding enhances the typing experience with its clacky sound and smooth feel, ideal for those who prefer a linear switch without tactile bumps. Conversely, the Outemu Blue provides a more traditional, tactile typing experience with its audible click, making it appealing for users who enjoy feedback in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet, smooth operation or a more pronounced tactile and auditory experience while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth, quiet typing experience with a moderate actuation force of 52 grams, the Caramel Pudding switch is an excellent choice for both casual and extended typing sessions. Its resonant sound signature enhances the tactile feedback without being overly loud, making it ideal for shared workspaces or quiet environments where noise could be a concern. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience and like the satisfaction of tactile feedback with every keystroke, the Outemu Blue switch would serve you well. It offers a distinctive clicky sound that can be quite satisfying for typists who relish a more interactive feel with their keyboard. Therefore, consider your environment and your typing preferences carefully: opt for the Caramel Pudding for a more subtle, smooth experience, or choose the Outemu Blue if you thrive on tactile feedback and a lively sound profile.
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