HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean present intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who value auditory feedback alongside tactile comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a more subdued experience, ideal for users who prefer a quieter operation without sacrificing smoothness, particularly in shared or professional environments. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, their distinctive acoustic profiles and intended usage scenarios set them apart. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches showcase a compelling contrast in their top housing materials. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its softness, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon typing. This results in a sound that is less piercing, offering a warm and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and, therefore, yields a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate not only enhances the tonal clarity of the switch but also makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting, allowing for a stunning visual effect when illuminated.
When examining the bottom housings of these switches, an interesting similarity emerges. Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which again emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of this material. The impact of the bottom housing is significant as it influences the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a consistent auditory experience when keys are pressed down. This shared use of nylon for the bottom housing means that despite the differing materials in the top housing, both switches maintain a uniformity in sound quality at the base level, leading to satisfying feedback during key presses.
In summary, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differ markedly in their top housing materials—nylon for the former and polycarbonate for the latter—their similarities in bottom housing composition create a coherent typing experience. The Caramel Pudding offers a deeper sound profile due to both top and bottom nylon housings, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean achieves a more contrasting sound due to the polycarbonate top. However, when the sounds from the bottom housings come into play, both switches can evoke a similar auditory response, showcasing the interplay of acoustic qualities derived from different materials. Ultimately, this diversity in design not only enriches user experience but can cater to individual preferences for sound dynamics in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them feel equally responsive when triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly, with the Caramel Pudding at 52 grams classified as medium-light, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that although both switches require the same amount of force to actuate, the experience when bottoming out varies, with the Caramel Pudding providing a softer landing compared to the firmer feel of the Silent Ocean. As a result, users who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged sessions might gravitate toward the Caramel Pudding, while those seeking a more substantial tactile response may find the heavier Silent Ocean more suitable for their typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, the Caramel Pudding offers a slightly deeper experience compared to the Silent Ocean. For those who favor quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a rounded, fuller typing experience. If both switches are appealing, the choice ultimately comes down to whether one prioritizes speed and responsiveness or a more substantial key travel 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 Silent Ocean 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 a resonant, clacky sound signature that can add a delightful auditory element to your typing experience. This engaging sound can create a more dynamic and responsive atmosphere, especially in a casual or gaming setting. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has no specific sound qualities mentioned, leading to an unknown auditory profile. However, being a silent switch, one can generally expect a quieter operation, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch offers an exquisitely smooth typing experience that many users tend to appreciate, promoting comfort and reducing fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, no notable feel characteristics are provided for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, leaving its tactile feedback and overall typing experience unspecified. However, since it is classified as a linear switch like the Caramel Pudding, one might anticipate a smooth travel without tactile bumps.
In conclusion, while the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch presents an engaging clacky sound and a delightfully smooth feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch lacks detailed descriptions in these areas, making its specific qualities more elusive. Users who prefer auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, while those seeking a quieter experience might find the Dustproof Silent Ocean a potential fit, even if its attributes remain unknown. Whichever switch you choose, focusing on your personal preferences and typing environment will ultimately guide your decision.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you are someone who enjoys a smooth and slightly lighter key press, along with a resonant, clacky sound signature that adds character to your typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switch would be an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming without causing strain. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdier feel and a more subdued auditory experience, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is designed to provide a smoother and quieter typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams. This makes it particularly suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise might be an issue. In summary, choose the Caramel Pudding for a lively, tactile experience and the Dustproof Silent Ocean for a solid, quieter performance.
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