HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its smooth, linear feel and a resonant, clacky sound signature that creates an enjoyable auditory feedback, making it an ideal choice for typists who favor silent, seamless keystrokes and minimal tactile disruption. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switch stands out with its crisp, light tactility and a richly immersive sound profile produced by its uniquely designed nylon housing. This switch delivers a satisfying tactile bump with each press, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced and engaging typing experience. While the Caramel Pudding is perfect for those seeking fluidity in their typing, the Quinn provides a dynamic feel that can enhance the act of typing itself. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Quinn are notably similar, as both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is widely recognized in the keyboard enthusiast community for its acoustic properties, particularly its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a softer plastic compared to other materials, nylon tends to absorb sound more effectively, which results in a duller and rounder sound signature. This shared material choice between the Caramel Pudding and the Quinn leads to a consistent auditory experience, where users can expect a pleasing typing sound that is characterized by its warmth and richness.
The similarities in housing materials extend to both the top and bottom housings of the Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Quinn, reinforcing the notion that these switches will yield comparable acoustic results. The nylon in both switches contributes significantly to the overall sound quality during both key presses and releases. Specifically, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when the key is released. In this regard, users can anticipate a seamless transition between the characteristics of each switch, stemming from their mutual nylon composition.
While the housing materials are the same, different configurations or internal components, such as spring tension or actuation point, may still distinguish the feel and responsiveness of the two switches. However, since both the Caramel Pudding and the Quinn employ nylon throughout, the resulting acoustic properties are likely to be similar, offering users an experience that is harmonious and enjoyable. Should one opt for either switch, they can rest assured that the inherent qualities of nylon will provide a cohesive sound and tactile feedback, making both switches suitable choices for those who prioritize auditory performance in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Quinn switch requires a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As such, while the Caramel Pudding is regarded as medium-light, the Quinn is classified as medium-heavy. The disparity in force characteristics suggests that users seeking a lighter touch should opt for the Caramel Pudding, while those who favor a firmer push should choose the Quinn for their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Quinn measures 3.4 mm. This means that the Gateron Quinn is the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that may be beneficial for gamers who favor faster inputs. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing the keys. Thus, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Quinn might be the better choice, while the Caramel Pudding is ideal for those who enjoy the sensation of deeper key presses.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 evaluating the sound profiles of the HMX Caramel Pudding and Gateron Quinn switches, it's clear that both offer distinct auditory experiences. The Caramel Pudding is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback with each keystroke. This makes it an engaging choice for typists who enjoy an active and lively sound while typing. In contrast, the Quinn switches deliver a deeper, more resonant sound profile that integrates elements of both bassiness and clarity. Combining a crisp, clean note with low-pitched characteristics, the Quinn's sound can be described as rich and immersive, adding depth to the typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches produce enjoyable sounds, the Caramel Pudding leans towards brightness, whereas the Quinn emphasizes a more profound resonance.
In terms of feel, the HMX Caramel Pudding boasts an exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key travel and minimal friction. This silkiness makes the switch exceptionally pleasant for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches offer a multifaceted tactile experience characterized by their snappy and polished touch. With a responsive feel, users will appreciate the clear and clean tactile bump that defines each keystroke. The Quinn switches also provide a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience and creating an invigorating interaction with the keyboard. While the Caramel Pudding emphasizes a seamless typing experience, the Quinn focuses on delivering tactile feedback that keeps typists engaged.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch bring unique auditory and tactile experiences to the table. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its crisp, clacky sound and smooth travel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more straightforward, linear feel. Meanwhile, the Quinn excels with its resonant and bass-heavy sound, coupled with a snappy, polished feel that brings character to the typing experience. Depending on personal preference, typists will find that both switches offer their unique advantages, making each a worthy contender in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch largely depends on your typing style and personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, buttery typing experience paired with a clacky sound profile, the Caramel Pudding switches are an excellent choice. Their medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams makes them ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate quick and effortless key presses without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, if you seek a richer auditory experience coupled with a more tactile feedback, the Gateron Quinn switches would serve you well. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a defined tactile bump along with a deep and resonant sound that enhances each keystroke, making them perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying "snappy" feel while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness or tactility and auditory richness, helping you create a keyboard setup that truly fits your unique typing needs.
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