HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Cream Blue can significantly influence your typing experience. The Caramel Pudding, recognized for its smooth action and resonant, clacky sound signature, is a linear switch that many users appreciate for its quiet and uninterrupted keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a seamless typing experience without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, delivers an audible click that not only provides a satisfying typing rhythm but also enhances tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists who find joy in hearing and feeling each keystroke. The choice between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference; whether you value a smooth glide or a pronounced click can dictate your overall satisfaction. 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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Cream Blue both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to a strikingly similar sound profile and typing experience. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, offering distinct acoustic properties. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon is adept at absorbing sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches exhibit this characteristic, which contributes to a typing experience that is rich in a dull and rounded auditory sensation. Users can expect a satisfying auditory feedback when typing on either switch, enhancing the overall tactile experience.
While the top and bottom housings of both configurations utilize nylon, the way the materials affect performance can differ slightly when considering individual switches. Typically, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down, while the top housing primarily impacts the sound upon key release. Given that both the Caramel Pudding and Cream Blue switches share the same housing material, users can anticipate that the collective qualities of nylon will deliver a cohesive sound experience. As such, whether one is typing on the Caramel Pudding or the Cream Blue, the user may find a consistent auditory feedback and tactile sensation throughout the entire keystroke.
Moreover, despite the different branding and potential variance in design aesthetics, the shared use of nylon in both switches indicates they will yield comparable results in terms of performance. The inherent properties of nylon ensure that the underlying qualities are preserved across both models, contributing to a uniformity that typing enthusiasts might find appealing. Therefore, users looking for a smooth and acoustically rich typing experience will likely find satisfaction in either switch. This consistency in material choice promises a familiar and enjoyable interaction, regardless of which switch a user ultimately selects.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch differ in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the heavier 50 grams required for the Cream Blue, making it a more suitable option for extended typing sessions or gaming. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Caramel Pudding at 52 grams is lighter than the 65 grams of the Cream Blue, indicating that the Caramel Pudding provides a softer landing when bottoming out. In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is lighter overall, while the Outemu Cream Blue offers a stronger push feel, tailored for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that some gamers may prefer for quicker key presses. In contrast, the Cream Blue, with its longer travel distance, offers a more traditional and substantial depth when typing, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, if you seek a faster response, the Caramel Pudding would be the better choice, whereas the Cream Blue would suit those who appreciate a deeper keystroke.
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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature, offering a musical quality that many users find appealing. This distinct sound is generally perceptible during typing, creating an engaging auditory experience that contributes to the enjoyment of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a sound profile that is currently less defined, leaving room for exploration. However, due to its clicky nature, one can anticipate that it would produce a more pronounced sound when pressed, evoking a sharper and more noticeable auditory feedback that typists often crave in tactile switches. It's important to keep in mind that the overall sound can be influenced by factors like the board and keycap materials, so users may experience variations in acoustics.
When considering the feel, the HMX Caramel Pudding switch is lauded for its exquisitely smooth typing experience. This smoothness is particularly satisfying for those who prefer linear switches, as it facilitates quick and effortless key presses without any tactile bumps or resistance. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue switch’s feel hasn't been explored in detail, but as a clicky switch, one could anticipate a more tactile feedback with a noticeable click at the actuation point. This tactile response can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced sensation under their fingers while typing or gaming, making the contrast between these two switches quite pronounced.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch excels in sound with its clacky resonance and in a smooth typing feel, while the Outemu Cream Blue may offer a more distinct click sound and potentially a tactile experience, though specific details are less established. Each switch caters to varying preferences; users seeking a smooth and engaging auditory experience might gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, whereas those who enjoy a tactile click might prefer the Cream Blue. Ultimately, trying both switches firsthand is the best way to determine personal preference and ensure the best fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch largely depends on your typing style and preferences. If you favor a quieter typing experience with a smooth keystroke, the Caramel Pudding switch is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions where comfort is key. Additionally, if you're looking for a more muted yet satisfying sound profile, the Caramel Pudding provides a smooth and pleasant experience without the distraction of loud clicks. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy an audible sound to accompany your keystrokes, the Cream Blue switch's medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams will give you that satisfying click with each key press, making it more suitable for typing enthusiasts who appreciate pronounced keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a smooth, silent experience or a tactile, clicky sensation.
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