HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Outemu Red offer distinct experiences, even as they both belong to the linear switch category. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which adds a delightful auditory layer to your typing experience, while also providing an exquisitely smooth feel that many users crave for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches lack a prominent sound profile, focusing instead on a straightforward, unobtrusive linear action that many gamers appreciate for their speedy keystrokes and responsiveness. In essence, if you prioritize an engaging sound and a silky tactile feel, the Caramel Pudding may be your ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a quieter option that allows for fast-paced, uninterrupted gameplay, the Outemu Red might be the better fit. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Outemu Red switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their overall sound profiles. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer texture, leading to a deeper and fuller sound. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature, which produces a sharper, clearer sound profile. The translucence of polycarbonate not only contributes to a more resonant sound but also enhances aesthetics, especially in setups equipped with RGB lighting. Thus, while both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, the auditory nuances differ considerably due to the materials used in their top housings.
However, the bottom housing of both switches showcases a commonality, as both the Caramel Pudding and Outemu Red utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This congruence means that the switches will offer a similar tactile experience stemming from the bottom housing's characteristics. Nylon, being a classic switch housing material, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when engaged. Therefore, regardless of the contrasting sounds produced from the top housings of the two models, users can expect a unified deeper sound when bottoming out, as both switches benefit from nylon's sound-absorbing qualities in this aspect.
In consideration of how these materials might impact overall performance, the differences in top materials will become prominent during the typing process. While the nylon top of the Caramel Pudding imparts a rounder sound when releasing the key, the Outemu Red’s polycarbonate top will create a crisper sound in the same scenario. However, both switches’ nylon bottom housings ensure that the depth of sound when pressing down is consistent. Thus, the combination of materials creates a balance where similar bottom-out feelings are experienced, but each switch’s personality shines through in its release sound, inviting users to choose based on their auditory preferences and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Outemu Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it firmly in the medium range. This means that typists and gamers seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use may prefer the Caramel Pudding for its reduced resistance, allowing for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Outemu Red, which provides a firmer tactile sensation due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, while the switches are similar in actuation force, the Outemu Red is the heavier option, making them suited to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we find that the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red measures 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter switch, catering to users who appreciate a more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker key activation. On the other hand, the Outemu Red, with its longer travel distance of 4 mm, offers a more traditional typing experience, potentially appealing to those who prefer the pronounced depth of keypresses. Consequently, while both switches serve different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and response time, the Caramel Pudding provides a snappier response, while the Outemu Red ensures a more substantial key engagement.
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 Red 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
The sound profile of the HMX Caramel Pudding switch is characterized by its resonant, clacky signature, which can provide an engaging auditory feedback during typing or gaming sessions. This quality contributes to a lively atmosphere, making it popular among users who enjoy tactile sounds while they work or play. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch does not have a defined sound profile, which means it may produce a more subdued or neutral auditory experience. This variability in sound is also influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so users may find that the Outemu Red can still be tailored to yield a pleasing sound environment depending on the build.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch excels with its exquisitely smooth typing experience. This quality allows for effortless keystrokes and can enhance overall typing speed and comfort. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Red switch is unknown, leaving some uncertainty for those considering it. However, linear switches like the Red are typically designed to provide a consistent and fluid keystroke, which may still offer a satisfactory typing sensation.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding switch stands out with its clacky sound and smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback and comfortable keystrokes. The Outemu Red, while lacking detailed sound and feel descriptions, may still deliver a more subdued auditory experience typical of linear switches. If you enjoy a vibrant sound paired with a smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding may be ideal. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter environment, the Outemu Red could be a viable option, depending on the customization choices you make with your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches and Outemu Red linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing or gaming style. If you prefer a switch that offers a light feedback with a clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice. Its bottom-out force of 52 grams allows for easier key presses, making it ideal if you enjoy a smooth and responsive typing experience, especially for long hours of use or fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you favor a slightly stiffer feel with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Red switches, with their 62-gram bottom-out force, might be more suitable for you. This medium force can provide a sense of stability during your typing sessions. Ultimately, if you find satisfaction in the auditory and tactile nuances of your switches, the Caramel Pudding will likely enhance your experience, while the Red switches serve well for those who appreciate straightforward, no-frills linear movement. Your choice should align with your comfort and desired performance.
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