HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Blue can greatly influence your typing experience. The Caramel Pudding, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes without the interruption of tactile feedback. Its resonant, clacky sound signature adds an enjoyable auditory element, appealing to those who appreciate a bit of acoustic character in their typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that delivers a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke, making it perfect for typists who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. Though it lacks standout traits, its dustproof design ensures durability and longevity. Each switch has its distinct benefits: the Caramel Pudding for a silent, smooth experience and the Dustproof Blue for a more tactile and audible 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
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
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 Dustproof Blue switches, a clear contrast emerges, particularly in their top housings. The Caramel Pudding employs a nylon top housing that is renowned for its sound absorption qualities. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which many users appreciate for its warmth. Nylon’s softer plastic composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, minimizing harshness and delivering a pronounced roundness in auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for those preferring a more pronounced acoustic experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Caramel Pudding and Dustproof Blue utilize nylon material. This consistency leads to a similar deeper, fuller sound profile when the switches bottom out, as nylon’s inherent softness assists in sound absorption. Thus, while the sound experience can vary significantly when pressing down on a key due to the different materials used in the top housings, the bottom housing maintains a uniform quality across both switches. The impact of the bottom housing on the overall typing experience is crucial, as it largely influences the key actuation feedback and bottom-out sound, which is deeper and more muted due to the nylon construction.
Ultimately, the experience of using these switches would be shaped by the combination of the distinctive top and bottom housings. While the differing materials in the top housings create varying auditory profiles—nylon providing warmth and polycarbonate delivering clarity—the bottom housings ensure a consistent foundational feel that leverages nylon’s sound-dampening properties. This interaction suggests that users seeking to achieve specific soundscapes can experiment with both switches based on their preferences; choosing the Caramel Pudding for a more subdued and richer sound, or opting for the Dustproof Blue for a sharper and more lively response while still benefiting from the consistent characteristics that nylon offers in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we see notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Caramel Pudding switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option that is great for extended typing sessions, as it requires less force to activate. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This increased resistance provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a firmer feel while typing. Thus, if you favor a lighter switch for comfort over long durations, the Caramel Pudding would be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you desire a heavier force that can provide tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Blue would suit your needs better. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in feel and responsiveness. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Blue features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means the Caramel Pudding is the shorter option, appealing to users who favor quicker response times, such as gamers who benefit from less key travel. On the other hand, the longer 4.0 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Blue may provide a more substantial keystroke experience, which some users might prefer for a satisfying depth while typing. Therefore, if you lean toward a more responsive touch, the Caramel Pudding would be ideal, whereas the Dustproof Blue is better suited for those who appreciate a more tactile feel.
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 Dustproof 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 known for its resonant, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists find appealing. This sound profile enhances the typing experience, making it feel more responsive and engaging. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have notable auditory qualities outlined, which may suggest that the switch does not produce a distinct sound or that it is less memorable in comparison. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound output of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and other components in the build.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is praised for an exquisitely smooth typing experience, which allows for fluid keystrokes without significant resistance. This smoothness can lead to less finger fatigue during long typing sessions and is particularly appealing to those who prefer a softer actuation. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch lacks detailed descriptions regarding its tactile characteristics, making it difficult to evaluate its feel. Without specific information on its actuation force or texture, it remains uncertain how it stacks up against the Caramel Pudding.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by its resonant, clacky sound and exceptionally smooth feel, providing an engaging typing experience that many newcomers will likely appreciate. On the other hand, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is less defined in terms of sound and feel, it still may be a viable choice for those who prefer different tactile experiences. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on individual preferences, whether one favors the auditory feedback and smoothness of the Caramel Pudding or the potentially distinct yet unspecified qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, your choice should be guided by your specific needs and preferences. If you prefer a softer, smoother typing experience with a bottom-out force of only 52 grams and enjoy a resonant, clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switch would be an excellent fit for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for long typing sessions where comfort and a satisfying auditory feedback are essential. On the other hand, if you favor a more tactile typing experience with a higher bottom-out force of 65 grams and don’t mind a bit of resistance, the Dustproof Blue switch may be the better option. Although it lacks the distinctive sound characteristics of its Caramel counterpart, it offers a more pronounced clickiness that can provide satisfying feedback for typists who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard feel. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactile feedback and resistance in your typing experience.
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