HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the landscape of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Purple Star each present unique characteristics tailored to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant and clacky sound, providing not only an auditory delight but also an exquisitely smooth typing feel that appeals to those who enjoy a more tactile experience. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches shine with their all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience complemented by a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out, the Purple Star is perfect for lighter typists seeking ease and comfort in every keystroke. While both options cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the Caramel Pudding leans towards a more responsive acoustic experience, whereas the Purple Star emphasizes a lightweight and effortless typing sensation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Purple Star, it becomes clear that each switch utilizes different types of plastics, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its ability to absorb sound effectively due to its softer nature. This characteristic leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile that is warm and rounded, making for a pleasant typing experience. The consistent use of nylon across both the top and bottom housing ensures that the sound quality remains cohesive, with the overall result being a more unified auditory experience when pressing and releasing the keys.
In contrast, the KTT Purple Star adopts POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings, which also produces a deeper and muted sound profile but is noted for its pleasing uniqueness. While POM is generally harder than nylon, it still serves to deliver a satisfying auditory feedback without compromising on the overall sound character. Each housing material contributes differently to the sound during key presses, with the POM bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound as you release the key. Despite possessing different materials, the KTT Purple Star achieves a similarly rich sound quality during typing, albeit with a distinct timbre thanks to the properties of POM.
Ultimately, both the Caramel Pudding and the Purple Star harness soft and strong plastics to curate unique typing experiences. While nylon promotes a classic sound profile with warm tones, POM offers a more modern, distinct sound with its unique characteristics. The interplay of top and bottom housings in each switch again highlights how the differing materials contribute to the overall typing experience. If a user desires a sound profile that bridges the gap between the two, precise adjustments in typing technique or keycap selection might help achieve similar audible results despite the fundamental differences in housing materials. Ultimately, whether the choice leans towards the soft embrace of nylon or the crispness of POM, both switches offer an appealing auditory journey.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, notable differences emerge in their 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. In contrast, the Purple Star has a slightly lighter actuation force at 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Purple Star is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the Caramel Pudding provides a slightly heavier push feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches deliver similar performance for those who enjoy linear switches, the KTT Purple Star offers a marginally lighter feel compared to the HMX Caramel Pudding.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Caramel Pudding measuring 3.6 mm and the Purple Star at 3.5 mm. This makes the KTT Purple Star the shorter option, albeit by a mere 0.1 mm. For users who prioritize response times, this slight difference may still favor the Purple Star for its quicker engagement. However, the Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel in their keystrokes, offering a bit more depth while typing or gaming. Overall, while both switches provide a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 Star comes in at $4.88 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 comparing the sound characteristics of the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Purple Star linear switches, the Caramel Pudding is noted for its resonant and clacky sound signature, making it lively and engaging during use. This auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a more dynamic sound profile. In contrast, the Purple Star switches produce a low-pitched and mellow tone that delivers a more subdued auditory experience. Their neutral sound signature makes them less intrusive, which may be preferable in quieter environments or for users who want less distraction. However, the final sound experience can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap choice, potentially blending the unique qualities of each switch differently.
In terms of the tactile experience, the Caramel Pudding offers an exquisitely smooth typing feel, likely making it appealing to users who prefer a seamless transition between key presses. Such a silky sensation can contribute to a pleasurable and efficient typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches provide a mild feel that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness. Their gentle actuation and light 45g bottom-out make them particularly suitable for light typists, as they demand minimal effort during use. This light resistance minimizes finger fatigue, allowing for extended typing sessions without discomfort. Altogether, these feel qualities cater to different preferences—whether one seeks out slick smoothness or a safe middle ground in responsiveness and ease.
Overall, the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Purple Star linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles, catering to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding excites with its clacky sound and smooth typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy more auditory feedback, while the Purple Star's mellow tones and light actuation define it as an excellent choice for users favoring a subdued and effortless typing feel. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on individual priorities regarding sound and typing comfort; both can deliver satisfactory performance, yet they each offer unique advantages.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Purple Star linear switches depends largely on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a slightly more tactile experience with a clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding would be an excellent fit, especially if you're looking for a balance between responsiveness and auditory feedback at a medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams. This switch is well-suited for those who enjoy the sensation of each keypress and want their typing to have a bit more character. On the other hand, if you favor a quieter, buttery smooth typing experience with an even lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, the KTT Purple Star would be ideal for you. This switch is particularly advantageous for lighter typists, providing a mild response that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged use, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so reflect on what aspects matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard journey before making your final choice.
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