HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable options are the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, along with an exquisitely smooth feel that appeals to those who favor linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches offer a tactile experience that can help typists discern key presses without requiring them to bottom out, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy a physical feedback with each keystroke. While both switches cater to different preferences—one favoring smoothness and sound, the other tactile feedback—it's essential to delve deeper into each switch's characteristics to determine the best fit for your unique typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches, a significant distinction lies in the material used for the top housing. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Nylon's ability to absorb sound allows for a rounder audio experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a more muted keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This material offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile as polycarbonate's stiffer structure leads to a clearer and more resonant audio experience. Consequently, users of the Dustproof Purple will notice a brighter sound when typing, due to the intrinsic properties of polycarbonate compared to nylon.
Despite the contrasting top housing materials, both switches share a nylon bottom housing which influences their performance similarly. The Caramel Pudding's nylon bottom housing aligns with its top housing for a consistent sound profile, maintaining that deeper and fuller characteristic. Likewise, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing generates the same effect, echoing the softer sound profile that nylon is known for. This uniformity in bottom housing means that both switches will deliver a comparable tactile experience at the point of actuation, where the bottom housing material is instrumental in the overall feel of the switch. Thus, gamers and typists will benefit from a softer bottom-out sound regardless of the differences in their top housing materials.
In essence, while the Caramel Pudding and Outemu Dustproof Purple switches differ in terms of their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—they share similar nylon bottom housings, which create a cohesive sound experience when bottoming out. Users can anticipate a rounder, fuller sound when pressing keys down, thanks to the nylon. However, the audible experience upon releasing keys will differ significantly; the Caramel Pudding will evoke a softer tone, while the Dustproof Purple will resonate with a crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top. This balance between distinct top housing materials and a shared bottom housing composition results in a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of different users.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to users who desire a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. This difference means that users who appreciate a lighter touch should gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, while those who enjoy a firmer push will likely prefer the Dustproof Purple switch. Consequently, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, whereas the Dustproof Purple is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, we find that the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Purple features a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding switch is the shorter of the two, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key actuation. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple, with its longer travel distance, provides a deeper, more pronounced keystroke that some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one favors a quicker response or a more substantial depth when typing or gaming.
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 Purple 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 characterized by a resonant and clacky sound signature, making it a joy to type on, especially for those who enjoy auditory feedback. This distinct sound can add a lively atmosphere to your typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch does not have any specific sound attributes noted, which suggests it may be more subdued or neutral in comparison to the pronounced acoustic qualities of the Caramel Pudding. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard used and the keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, which allows for effortless keystrokes and minimizes fatigue during long typing sessions. This smoothness is a defining characteristic that many enthusiasts look for in linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch lacks detailed information on its tactile characteristics, which leaves uncertainty regarding its typing feel. Without specific descriptions, it's difficult to draw a comparison, but typically, tactile switches provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which could present a different typing sensation entirely.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch stands out with its resonant sound and smooth feel, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize auditory and tactile pleasure. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch lacks clear defining traits in both sound and feel, which may make it less attractive for those looking for a specific typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a more vibrant and smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding is likely the way to go, while the Dustproof Purple may suit those looking for something less defined.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios will greatly influence your choice. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience with a resonance that provides an engaging auditory feedback, then the Caramel Pudding switch, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams, will likely be your go-to option, especially for long typing sessions or gaming where comfort and speed are prized. This switch excels in providing a clacky sound signature, which can enhance your experience if you appreciate the sounds of your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a slightly more resistant feel, the Dustproof Purple switch may be suitable for you. With a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, it offers a firmer typing experience, making it ideal for those who like to feel each keystroke distinctly, particularly in fast-paced typing environments or gaming scenarios where precision is key. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether you lean more towards a smooth, lightweight feel with pronounced sound or a more solid, tactile response.
Mentioned in this article
