HMX Caramel Pudding vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the SP-Star Polaris Purple each offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth typing feel, making them ideal for users who appreciate a linear switch that delivers seamless keystrokes without any tactile interruption. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switches provide a thrilling tactile bump that enhances the typing experience, coupled with a snappy sound profile that appeals to typists seeking feedback with each key press. While the Caramel Pudding is perfect for those who favor a quiet and fluid typing experience, the Polaris Purple is tailored for those who enjoy tactile engagement and auditory feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, notable differences emerge that influence their respective sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding is characterized by its nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper, rounder sound profile. This is attributed to nylon’s softer properties that allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a muffled acoustic experience that some users may find appealing for quieter environments or for a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance and clarity, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
While both switches exhibit unique acoustic characteristics due to their different housing materials, the combination of nylon in the Caramel Pudding and polycarbonate in the Polaris Purple can create varied typing experiences. The nylon contributes to a more muted sound on both the bottom-out and release of the keypress, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is prioritized. Conversely, the polycarbonate in the Polaris Purple emphasizes the sound of both keypresses—producing a clear and distinct auditory feedback when the key is engaged and released. This results in a more vibrant and lively typing experience that enhances the engagement for users who enjoy a dynamic feel with their switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials, achieving similar results in typing experience is still possible. For instance, if one desires a specific sound profile or tactile feedback, switches can be customized through keycap changes, dampeners, or even modifications like lubing the switches to adjust their acoustic qualities. This adaptability allows users to fine-tune their experience with either switch, depending on personal preferences, while recognizing that the inherent qualities of nylon and polycarbonate will fundamentally shape how each switch performs on its own. Therefore, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and SP-Star Polaris Purple housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles, creative customization can bridge the gap for a tailored typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there is a clear distinction in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for long typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, the Polaris Purple lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel, which may appeal to users who favor a more pronounced push during keystrokes. Therefore, the HMX Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple is the heavier switch. For those looking to achieve a similar typing experience to the Caramel Pudding, the Polaris Purple would provide a stronger tactile feedback due to its higher bottom out force, despite the unknown actuation force.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, appealing to users who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes that are often preferred by gamers. In contrast, the Polaris Purple, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, offers a more profound keystroke experience that some users might find more satisfying and comfortable. Those who enjoy a more hearty depth in their typing would likely gravitate towards the Polaris Purple. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends largely on individual preferences for speed versus depth in their typing experiences.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature, making it an enjoyable auditory experience for users who appreciate a lively, engaging typing environment. This distinctive sound profile adds a layer of excitement to typing, contributing to the overall enjoyment of using the keyboard. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch boasts a snappier sound, presenting a more neutral tone that provides a balanced auditory experience. This snappiness, combined with its moderate sound profile, makes the Polaris Purple versatile for various settings, whether at home or in a professional environment, as it offers a less intrusive output while still delivering satisfying auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch provides a notably smooth typing experience, allowing for fluid key presses without any hindrance. This is particularly appealing to users who favor uninterrupted typing sessions, as the smooth key travel aids in efficiency and comfort. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple’s feel is marked by a significant tactile bump, which delivers an exhilarating tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying. This bump creates an engaging typing experience by providing physical feedback at the actuation point, while also possessing a polished finish that ensures smoothness and reduced friction during use. Ultimately, the Polaris Purple's characteristics cater to users who enjoy a tactile sensation during their typing while still appreciating a smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while both switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Caramel Pudding's clacky sound and smooth feel make it ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing environment, while the Polaris Purple combines a snappy sound with pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to users seeking a more interactive experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two should be guided by whether you prefer the smooth, resonant qualities of the Caramel Pudding or the tactile, polished experience of the Polaris Purple, both of which can lead to satisfying and enjoyable keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter typing experience that emphasizes smooth keystrokes and a resonant, clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent fit. This switch excels in casual typing and gaming, where speed and fluidity are key. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience with a noticeable bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple would be the ideal choice. Its medium-heavy force requirement can provide a more deliberate feel, making it suitable for those who appreciate a more pronounced response while typing or gaming. In essence, if you're after a smooth and quiet experience, go for the Caramel Pudding; if you're looking for tactile feedback and a robust tactile experience, the Polaris Purple should be your go-to option.
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