HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Purple Click are significant, catering to varying typing preferences and experiences. The Caramel Pudding switch is a linear switch, celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing feel and resonant, clacky sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter and more fluid experience while typing or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click is a clicky switch renowned for its light keystrokes that deliver a satisfying, high-pitched click, paired with a tactical sensation that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and comfort. This makes the Purple Click ideal for users who enjoy audible cues and a more engaging typing experience. While both switches offer unique benefits tailored to specific needs, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Purple Click, a significant distinction arises from their top housings. The Caramel Pudding employs a nylon top housing, renowned for its softer properties which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows the switch to absorb more sound, creating a muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing that enhances clarity and resonates with a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate means it contributes to a more pronounced sound signature, making the typing experience feel more crisp and articulate. Thus, while both switches utilize high-quality materials, their performances diverge distinctly in terms of sound characteristics based on the choice of top housing.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both the Caramel Pudding and Purple Click switches share a common material: nylon. This similarity translates into a parallel auditory experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound of the switches. Since both utilize nylon in their bottom housings, we can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile during key presses, as nylon's sound-absorbing qualities are consistent across both models. Therefore, regardless of the differences in their top housings, users will experience a similar sound quality on the downward key press due to the shared nylon in the bottom portion of both switches.
The overall result of these material choices creates a nuanced typing experience. With the Caramel Pudding's nylon top providing a warmer sound and the Purple Click's polycarbonate top offering greater clarity, typists will notice varied auditory feedback based on which switch they opt for. However, during the actuation of the key, both switches will deliver that characteristic nylon-dominated sound, tying their performance together at the base level. Ultimately, prospective users must weigh their preference for either a deeper, mellower sound or a sharper, clearer one when selecting between these two unique switch designs.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, both offer a medium-light typing experience, but they differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Purple Click boasts a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams but has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the KTT Purple Click requires less force to initiate a keystroke, making it feel lighter during use. In terms of bottoming out, however, users will experience a slightly stronger push with the Purple Click due to its higher bottom out force. Consequently, those who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the KTT Purple Click, while users seeking a more substantial feel might opt for the Caramel Pudding particularly during that final key press. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics suitable for different preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding switch offers a more responsive experience, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quick reactions, while the Purple Click switch provides a deeper feel, appealing to those who enjoy the tactile feedback and a more traditional keystroke depth. Ultimately, if you favor a nimble and swift keypress, the Caramel Pudding would be the ideal choice, whereas if you appreciate a more substantial and pronounced action when typing, the Purple Click might be better suited for your needs.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 produces a resonant, clacky sound signature that creates a lively auditory feedback during typing. This switch’s sound profile is not only clean but also sharp, providing an engaging experience that many users find appealing for both work and play. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch features a decidedly different auditory output, characterized by a fairly high-pitched, satisfying click that is often likened to the sound of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. This click sound, combined with its resonant nature, contributes to an immersive typing experience that many users seek. While both switches provide enjoyable sound profiles, the Caramel Pudding leans more towards a smooth and clacky tone, while the Purple Click is definitive in its pronounced click and higher pitch.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Caramel Pudding switch is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which allows fingers to glide over the keys with minimal resistance. This smoothness is particularly sought after by those who prefer a less tactile and more fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating and snappy feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force. Its stepped tactile design provides a distinct sensation at the point of actuation, allowing users to experience the keystroke in stages. This creates a balance, providing tactile feedback without overwhelming the typist, making the Purple Click feel purposeful and engaging. The Caramel Pudding’s smoothness stands in stark contrast to the Purple Click’s more tactile response, creating different typing experiences altogether.
Overall, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Purple Click switches cater to varying preferences in sound and feel. If you prefer a smooth, resonant typing experience with minimal friction, the Caramel Pudding is likely the ideal choice. Conversely, if you enjoy a pronounced, clicky feedback with a tactile sensation that accentuates each keystroke, the Purple Click switch will cater to that desire. Ultimately, each switch offers unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on personal preference, and exploring both can be valuable in finding the switch that aligns best with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and your intended use case. If you crave a smooth typing experience with a resonant, clacky sound signature that adds an enjoyable acoustic layer to your work or gaming, the Caramel Pudding is likely the better fit for you. Its medium-light actuation force makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue, while its refined feel can enhance your overall productivity. In contrast, if you find pleasure in the tactile feedback and distinct auditory cues that clicky switches offer, the KTT Purple Click switch may be more to your liking. With its satisfying, high-pitched clicks and an invigorating typing sensation, this switch strikes a balance that can keep you engaged and responsive during intense gaming sessions or fast-paced typing activities. Therefore, consider what kind of sound and feel will elevate your experience, and choose accordingly—smooth and resonant or tactile and clicky.
Mentioned in this article
