HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Peach linear switches present unique offerings that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an excellent choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback alongside a satisfying tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Peach switches stand out with their syrupy smooth typing experience and low-pitched, thocky sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued yet rich auditory feedback. While both switches promise a linear experience without tactile bumps or clicks, they differentiate themselves in sound and feel, making the choice between them highly subjective. 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
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Peach, one can notice a distinct contrast in the top housing materials. The Caramel Pudding employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality stems from nylon's characteristic as a softer plastic, which absorbs sound effectively and results in a rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the KTT Peach features polycarbonate as its top housing material, which yields a sharper and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, promoting clarity that is visually accentuated by its translucency, making it an ideal choice for setups with RGB lighting.
On the other hand, both the Caramel Pudding and the KTT Peach share a similarity in their bottom housing materials, both utilizing nylon. This commonality results in a cohesive acoustic experience when pressing down on the switches. Nylon's softer composition enables it to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is consistent across both switches. As a result, while the top housing materials may create distinct sound signatures, the shared nylon bottom housing mitigates this difference to some extent, ensuring that the bottom-out sound and feel remain harmonious regardless of the differences in the top housing.
In essence, the differences between the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Peach switches illustrate how the choice of housing materials affects the overall sound profile and key feeling. The nylon top housing of the Caramel Pudding fosters a more muted and rounded sound, while the polycarbonate of the KTT Peach provides crispness and brightness. Despite this disparity, the use of nylon in the bottom housing across both models ensures that there is a foundational element that delivers a consistent typing experience. Consequently, users can expect to achieve a blend of sound characteristics, with the nylon bottom contributing to a fuller auditory experience, regardless of the contrasting top housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Peach linear switches are quite similar in terms of their actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, which makes them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces; the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Peach demands a marginally heavier 53 grams. This means that while both switches offer a comfortable and lightweight actuation, the KTT Peach provides a slightly more substantial feel when fully pressed down, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, for those who prioritize weight and ease of use, either switch would be a good option, but the Caramel Pudding may feel a touch softer at the bottom.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it is evident that they differ in their specifications. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Peach switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, the Peach switch will provide a bit more depth compared to the Caramel Pudding. For those who favor a quicker, more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Caramel Pudding may be ideal. Conversely, individuals who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and a more traditional feel might prefer the KTT Peach. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Caramel Pudding offers a more immediate response, whereas the Peach switch delivers a more pronounced typing experience.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 switches produce a resonant, clacky sound signature that adds a lively character to each keystroke, making them feel dynamic and responsive. In contrast, the KTT Peach switches offer a deep, thocky sound profile that is low-pitched and bass-heavy. This makes the Peaches inherently mellow and pleasant, often creating a more subdued auditory experience compared to the clack of the Caramel Puddings. Both switches will sound different depending on factors like the keyboard construction and keycap choices, but generally, the Caramel Puddings will resonate with a sharper tone while the KTT Peaches will provide a more muted yet satisfying experience.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes that minimize finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This smoothness is complemented by a lively sound response, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. Conversely, the Peach switches are described as offering a mild typing sensation. This gentler feel makes them approachable and versatile, catering to both beginners and seasoned typists. While the Caramel Puddings emphasize a pronounced smoothness, the Peaches settle into a comfortable middle ground that still feels nice under the fingers without being overwhelming.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Peach linear switches have their unique sound and feel characteristics. While the Caramel Pudding delivers a resonant clack and smooth typing, the KTT Peach offers a deep, mellow sound accompanied by a mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound character and typing feel, yet both will facilitate a satisfying experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Peach linear switches largely hinges on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you gravitate towards a lively and resonant typing experience, the Caramel Pudding switches would be a great fit, especially if you enjoy a clacky sound profile that adds character to your keystrokes. Their medium-light feel and smooth typing experience make them ideal for casual use or for those who appreciate a bit of acoustic feedback while they type. Conversely, if you prefer a more subdued typing experience with deeper, thocky sounds that maintain a level of maturity, the KTT Peach switches would likely be your best bet. They offer a syrupy smoothness and a low-pitched tone that is both mellow and suitable for a variety of settings, making them versatile for both work and play. Ultimately, if you seek a vibrant auditory experience, opt for the Caramel Pudding; but if you're after a balanced and approachable typing feel with a more pronounced bass, the KTT Peach would serve you well.