HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Cream Yellow

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding, a linear switch, is renowned for its resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel that many enthusiasts appreciate for both gaming and typing purposes. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, delivers feedback that allows users to feel each keystroke, enhancing typing accuracy and providing a satisfying experience for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response. Each switch has its own unique benefits: the Caramel Pudding is ideal for smooth and silent keystrokes, while the Cream Yellow emphasizes tactile engagement for those who prefer a more interactive 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

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Cream Yellow switches share identical housing materials, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom components. This commonality means that users can expect a similar acoustic experience when typing on either switch. The use of nylon, known for its softer and more sound-absorbent qualities, results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a muted and pleasant auditory output during typing sessions, as the material dampens high-frequency sounds and creates a duller sound signature.

Considering that both the Caramel Pudding and Cream Yellow switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the tactile and auditory experiences will be closely aligned. Each switch benefits from the inherent properties of nylon, which minimizes sharp sounds and fosters a more rounded audio profile. This consistency ensures that users will notice a comparable typing feel and sound when using either switch, allowing for seamless transitioning between setups if users choose to mix and match different switches in a keyboard.

While the specific profiles and mechanical characteristics of the Caramel Pudding and Cream Yellow switches may differ based on their internal mechanisms, the identical housing materials mean that the overall typing experience is likely to be very similar. Users can expect both switches to provide a consistent bottom-out feel and sound, predominantly influenced by the nylon housing. Each switch's performance and auditory signature will be harmonized, delivering a cohesive typing experience, particularly appealing to users seeking auditory comfort and tactile satisfaction while typing.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience similar responsiveness when pressing down lightly for a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces reveal a notable contrast: the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Cream Yellow features a stronger bottom out force of 60 grams. This difference suggests that the Caramel Pudding is lighter overall—ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience suitable for prolonged use. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Cream Yellow might appeal to users who enjoy a more tactile and substantial feel when typing or gaming. Overall, while both switches offer the same light actuation for quick keystrokes, the bottom out force differentiates their handling, catering to different preferences in typing experience.

Travel distance

The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Caramel Pudding featuring a distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow measures at 3.3 mm. This makes the Cream Yellow the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who favor quicker response times due to its more shallow travel. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a less abrupt feel when pressing down on keys. Thus, if you're seeking speed and responsiveness in your typing or gaming experience, the Cream Yellow would be the preferable choice, whereas the Caramel Pudding might better suit those who appreciate a fuller keypress sensation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is best known for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which can add an engaging auditory experience while typing or gaming. This sound is complemented by the acoustic properties of the materials used in the switch and will be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycap choice. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have a defined sound profile indicated, making it difficult to compare its auditory characteristics directly. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound perception can also vary based on the keyboard setup and the individual user's preferences.

When we consider the feel of these switches, the Caramel Pudding is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who prioritize a fluid and uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile bumps. On the other hand, the feel of the Cream Yellow tactile switch is not elaborated on, leaving its smoothness or tactile feedback to speculation. A user might find the Caramel Pudding offering a more clear and enjoyable typing sensation compared to the potentially undefined feeling of the Cream Yellow.

In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch exhibit distinct qualities that will appeal to different users. The Caramel Pudding provides a resonant sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, while the auditory and tactile characteristics of the Cream Yellow remain largely unspecified. If you prefer a more pronounced auditory experience alongside a smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is the clear choice. However, if you are unsure about tactile feedback or sound, exploring various keyboard setups for the Cream Yellow may yield similar outcomes in terms of tactile response, even without specific guidance on its characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a smoother keystroke combined with a medium-light actuation force, allowing for quick, effortless typing, the Caramel Pudding is the ideal choice for you. Its resonant, clacky sound signature enhances your typing experience, making it perfect for those who appreciate a lively acoustic feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with more resistance, the Cream Yellow could be the right fit. While it lacks a distinct sound signature, its medium actuation force provides a balanced typing experience that some users find more satisfying during longer typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and what you find most comfortable and enjoyable in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more