HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Brown switches. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their distinctive resonant, clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth typing feel, making them a favorite among gamers and typists alike who appreciate auditory feedback and a seamless keystroke experience. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switches are tactile switches that provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, offering users a more pronounced response that many find helpful for typing accuracy and productivity. While the Caramel Pudding is ideal for those who revel in a smooth and expressive typing experience, the Outemu Brown caters to those who prefer tactile feedback to enhance their typing rhythm and efficiency. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Brown switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's relatively softer consistency. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties, which generate a sharper and crisper sound. As polycarbonate is particularly effective in producing a more resonant tone, the auditory experience when typing on the Outemu Brown will be noticeably different than that of the Caramel Pudding, particularly when considering how the materials influence sound profile during key release.

Both switches, however, feature nylon bottom housings, which brings some consistency between the two. This shared characteristic results in a similar bottom-out feel and sound, as nylon's softer nature helps absorb sound and dampen vibrations. When using either switch, the pressing of the key will elicit a deeper, fuller sound at bottom-out, driven by the nylon's ability to cushion impact and sound. Thus, while the top housings will create distinct auditory experiences, the bottom housings standardize the feel, providing users with a familiar tactile experience regardless of the top yet allowing for varied sound profiles depending on the respective top housing material.

Overall, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Brown switches diverge significantly in their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—their shared nylon bottom housing unifies certain qualities, particularly in sound and feel during key press. Users should be aware that while the top housing significantly influences the sound profile, the nylon bottom delivers consistent performance in terms of bottoming out. Consequently, both switches can cater to different auditory preferences while maintaining a common tactile experience, offering a blend of varied sound characteristics and familiar feedback when typing.

Weight

The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch present a clear contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, ideal for users who prefer a lighter key feel. In contrast, the Outemu Brown features a heavier actuation force at 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer push. As a result, users can expect a lighter typing experience with the Caramel Pudding compared to the more forceful touch of the Outemu Brown, making the latter better suited for individuals who prefer a strong tactile feedback while typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Caramel Pudding offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference means that if you prefer a more responsive key press, the Caramel Pudding may be more suitable for you, as shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for quicker response times. Conversely, if you enjoy a more pronounced depth when typing, the Outemu Brown switch might be the better choice due to its greater travel distance, which some users find to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more substantial feel in your typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches produce a distinctively resonant and clacky sound signature, which can create an engaging auditory experience while typing. This quality adds a certain character to the typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and pronounced. Conversely, the Outemu Brown tactile switches are generally quieter, as they lack the clackiness of the Caramel Pudding. However, it’s important to note that the sound profile of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard’s construction, the material of the keycaps, and even the surface upon which the keyboard sits.

When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, delivering a fluid motion with every keystroke that lends itself well to long typing sessions or gaming. The lack of resistance in linear switches like the Caramel Pudding makes for a seamless strafe without bumps or interruptions. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switches offer a tactile feedback that, while not described in detail, is typically favored by typists who appreciate a noticeable “bump” at the actuation point. This provides a satisfying indication that the switch has been engaged, which can help enhance typing accuracy for some users.

In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches and Outemu Brown switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound and smooth keystrokes, the Caramel Pudding will likely please you. Alternatively, if you're looking for a switch that provides tactile feedback without being overly loud, the Outemu Brown could be a suitable option. While they offer different experiences, both can be appreciated for their unique qualities, and your choice will ultimately depend on your personal typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch depends largely on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a lighter touch with a superbly smooth typing experience, and you appreciate a more pronounced, clacky sound profile, the Caramel Pudding switch would be an excellent fit for you. It's ideal for fast typists and gamers who require swift key presses with less resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Outemu Brown switch might be the way to go. This switch is well-suited for typists who appreciate the tactile bump, providing a satisfying response that can enhance the typing experience, especially for longer writing sessions. In essence, choose the Caramel Pudding for effortless gliding and vibrant acoustics, and opt for the Outemu Brown if you want that tactile sensation combined with a more pronounced actuation feel. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactile feedback and weight.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more