HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The HMX Caramel Pudding, a linear switch, is renowned for its exceptionally smooth typing experience and its resonant, clacky sound that adds an engaging auditory element to each keystroke—making it ideal for those who appreciate a quiet yet satisfying feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is a clicky switch characterized by its tactile feedback, offering an audible "click" with each press that can enhance the feeling of precision and engagement during use; this makes it an appealing choice for typists who thrive on the sound and sensation of each keystroke. While the Caramel Pudding excels in providing a seamless keystroke, the Blue Jade is favored for its distinctive acoustic signature that can add a touch of nostalgia to the typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Blue Jade switches both utilize nylon as their housing material, which sets them apart in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon top housing in both switches is notable for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This is largely due to nylon's relatively softer composition, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a rounder, more muted auditory experience when typing on either switch. The shared characteristic of nylon in the top housing of both switches ensures that they will deliver similar sound outcomes, making them favorable choices for users who prioritize an acoustically pleasing typing experience.
When we look at the bottom housing, the Caramel Pudding and the Blue Jade offer the same advantages as their top housings, both featuring nylon materials. The characteristics of the nylon bottom housing further contribute to the overall typing experience, emphasizing comfort and sound dampening. Just like with the top housings, the nylon used in the bottom part of both switches provides a softer surface that absorbs sound, which results in a similarly muted and fuller auditory feedback. Users pressing down on either switch will experience a delightful bottom-out sensation, reinforced by the nylon's performance, ensuring consistency across both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Blue Jade.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that while both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the distinction created by the overall design and potential variations in the internal components may lead to subtle differences in feel or actuation force. However, the similarity in housing materials means that users can generally expect a comparable sound profile and feel regardless of which switch they choose. If you favor the comfort and acoustics that nylon provides, you will be satisfied with either the HMX Caramel Pudding or the Outemu Blue Jade, as both are crafted to produce a pleasing typing experience through their analogous material properties.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch differ notably in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Blue Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy and better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback while typing. Consequently, if you're looking for a lighter switch that allows for longer usage without fatigue, the Caramel Pudding would be the preferred option. However, if a firmer push sensation aligns more with your typing style or gaming needs, the Blue Jade would be the better choice. Hence, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Caramel Pudding is overall the lighter option, while the Blue Jade is heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it's evident that they cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a fairly responsive option for users who favor quicker key presses, particularly beneficial for gaming. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, which provides a more pronounced tactile response with each press. This increase in travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper feel and potentially a more satisfying typing experience. Thus, the Caramel Pudding switch is the shorter option, while the Blue Jade, with its longer travel distance, suits those who prefer a fuller 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 Outemu Blue Jade 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by a resonant and clacky sound signature that adds a lively and engaging acoustic quality to your typing experience. This makes them particularly appealing for users who enjoy an audible confirmation of their keystrokes. Conversely, the Outemu Blue Jade switches do not have a well-defined sound profile; therefore, it is challenging to compare their acoustic qualities directly. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound of any switch can be influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard frame and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes with minimal resistance. This can enhance typing speed and overall satisfaction, particularly for those who favor a linear switch. On the other hand, the feel of the Blue Jade switches is not specified, leaving a gap in comparative experience. Generally, users tend to have varying preferences in terms of tactile feedback and switch movement, so it can be beneficial to test different switches to find the best fit for an individual’s typing style.
In conclusion, if you're considering the HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Blue Jade switches, the Caramel Pudding offers a distinctive clacky sound and exceptionally smooth feel that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the lack of information on the Blue Jade's sound and feel makes it more challenging to gauge its performance. Overall, if sound and smoothness are priorities for your typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is a strong choice, while the Blue Jade may require further exploration or hands-on testing to fully understand its characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a smoother typing experience and prefer a medium-light actuation force, the Caramel Pudding switch is your best bet, especially for quiet environments or for tasks that require extended typing sessions, where fatigue could set in with heavier switches. The Caramel Pudding also offers a distinctive clacky sound that adds character to your typing, making it enjoyable for both work and leisure. Conversely, if you like a more tactile engagement with a clicky feedback—ideal for gaming and situations where you want to feel a definitive actuation—you might gravitate towards the Outemu Blue Jade switch, which provides a satisfying resistance and audible response that can enhance your overall typing experience. In essence, choose the Caramel Pudding for a smooth, low-noise experience, and opt for the Blue Jade if you thrive on the tactile and auditory feedback that can energize your performance.
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