HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Piano stand out as compelling options for avid typists and gamers alike, each offering a unique typing experience. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback during their typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock Piano switches are known for their proprietary material blend, delivering a gliding push feel complemented by a deep, creamy sound signature, which appeals to users seeking a luxurious and frictionless typing experience. Both switches fall into the linear category, emphasizing smooth key presses without tactile bumps, but they provide distinctly different auditory and tactile sensations that can cater to varying preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Piano both feature distinct materials for their switch housings, which significantly influence their overall sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. In contrast, the Durock Piano employs a proprietary POM blend for its housing, which is not fully detailed but is characterized by a satisfying and deep sound profile. While both switches aim for a rich auditory experience, the fundamental difference lies in the properties of nylon versus the POM blend.

When considering the bottom housing, the Caramel Pudding's nylon continues to demonstrate its sound-absorbing qualities, enhancing the overall acoustic experience during key presses. This is crucial because the bottom housing is most impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Piano's POM blend bottom housing also contributes to the unique depth of sound but may offer a different tactile sensation upon actuation. This divergence suggests that while both switches target a substantial auditory profile, their construction results in a distinct feel and sound, shaped by the contrasting materials.

The top housings of both switches underscore this difference as well, with the Caramel Pudding’s nylon again proving its efficacy in sound absorption and roundness. In contrast, the Durock Piano’s POM blend aims to provide a uniquely satisfying auditory experience, although the exact nuances of this sound remain unspecified. If the top and bottom housings differ, as seen in the Piano, the qualities contributed by each will manifest differently in sound and feel. Thus, while both switches aim for a rich typing experience, they achieve it through the unique properties of their respective materials, demonstrating that while their objectives may be aligned, the paths taken are distinctly different.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use during long gaming sessions or workdays. In contrast, the Durock Piano lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This suggests that while the Piano may provide a more substantial push feel, resulting in a typing experience that some users may find satisfying, it could also lead to fatigue during prolonged use. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter and more responsive switch, the Caramel Pudding is your best option, whereas for a heavier, more tactile feel, the Durock Piano fits the bill, albeit with less clarity regarding its actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option, while the Durock Piano features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer. As such, the Piano is better suited for users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, providing a more traditional feel. On the other hand, the Caramel Pudding, with its shorter travel distance, appeals to those who prefer quicker response times, often favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference: if you lean toward responsiveness, the Caramel Pudding is the way to go, whereas if you favor a more substantial typing experience, the Durock Piano would be the better fit.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches produce a resonant, clacky sound signature, making them quite lively and engaging during use. This distinctive auditory feedback can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound when typing. In contrast, the Durock Piano linear switches offer a deep, creamy, and bassy sound profile. This richer sound adds a layer of depth and warmth that can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a more subdued yet full-bodied auditory characteristic. While the sound can vary depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, the Piano's bassy tones contrast sharply with the Caramel Pudding's more traditional clackiness.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing users to glide effortlessly from key to key. This smoothness ensures a pleasant tactile experience, making it easy to type quickly and accurately. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switches are characterized by a unique gliding push feel, augmented by their frictionless and silky properties. This means that not only do they minimize resistance during key presses, but they also enhance the fluidity of typing, offering a remarkably effortless experience. While both switches promise a smooth feel, the Piano's specific combination of frictionless and silky characteristics may offer a distinct edge for users looking for an ultra-smooth typing sensation.

In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Piano linear switches bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Caramel Pudding excels with its clacky sound signature and smooth typing experience, the Durock Piano stands out with its deep, creamy sound and a remarkably sleek gliding feel. Users seeking a lively auditory feedback may prefer the Caramel Pudding, while those who value a deeper, richer sound and an incredibly smooth typing experience may gravitate toward the Durock Piano. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will hinge on individual preferences in sound and typing feel, as each offers distinct characteristics that can significantly enhance the keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and sound preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with a lively, clacky sound profile, the Caramel Pudding is the way to go. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it ideal for a rapid, responsive typing experience, making it well-suited for gaming or typing at high speeds. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper, more satisfying sound and a more substantial feel under your fingers, the Durock Piano could be your best option. With a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams, it provides a tactile sensation that many users find rewarding, while its frictionless and silky smoothness ensures a delightful typing experience for those who favor long typing sessions or deeper keyboard acoustics. In summary, choose the Caramel Pudding for a fun and quick typing experience with a resonant sound, and opt for the Piano if you’re looking for a more robust, rich auditory experience combined with an effortlessly smooth feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Caramel Pudding Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more