HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Rose linear switches present intriguing options, each with its distinct characteristics. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing users with a quintessential auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. Coupled with an exquisitely smooth feel, these switches are ideal for those who appreciate a dynamic sound to accompany each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches offer a visually appealing design that belies their impressive engineering; the use of progressive springs results in a typing experience that feels substantial without being heavy, accompanied by soothing bassy raindrop sounds. While both switches cater to users seeking linear action with smooth keystrokes, the auditory and tactile experiences they offer are markedly different. 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
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Rose, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's comparatively softer nature. This material absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic experience. Conversely, the KTT Rose utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which resonates clearly and brightly, particularly advantageous when RGB lighting is incorporated. Thus, while both switches prioritize the auditory experience, their materials produce markedly different sound characteristics due to their inherent properties.
On the other hand, both the Caramel Pudding and the KTT Rose share the same nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that the deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon will be a consistent quality in both switches when typing. The nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively contributes to a rounded experience during key presses and bottom-out sounds. This shared material ensures that regardless of the differences observed in the top housings, the lower halves of both switches deliver a similar auditory experience that still maintains a cohesive sound profile when using these products together.
In summary, the combined effects of the different materials in the top housings contribute to the overall auditory experience of each switch. While the Caramel Pudding's nylon top creates a warmer and rounder sound, the KTT Rose’s polycarbonate top excels at producing a punchier and more resonant sound, especially noticeable during key release. However, the use of nylon in both switches' bottom housings unites them, aligning their sound profiles to a certain extent. Therefore, despite their contrasting top housing materials, users can expect to experience an undercurrent of depth and fullness from both switches, leading to a unique yet complementary typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are notable differences in their force characteristics. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light switch that is easier on the fingers, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch has an unspecified actuation force, which makes direct comparison difficult, but it does have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out force indicates a more substantial typing experience, catering to users who prefer a firmer push feel. Consequently, while the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option, the Rose offers a heftier feel overall, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more robust keypress sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Rose features a longer distance of 4 mm. This indicates that those who choose the Caramel Pudding switch will benefit from a slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses and potentially faster response times—an appealing attribute for gamers who favor rapid execution. On the other hand, the KTT Rose, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel and depth that some users prefer for a more traditional typing experience. Therefore, if responsiveness is your primary concern, the HMX Caramel Pudding is the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more hearty engagement with their keys might favor the KTT Rose.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 it comes to sound, the Caramel Pudding switch offers a resonant and clacky signature that can create a lively auditory experience while typing. This adds a certain character to the switch, making each keystroke feel punchy and engaging. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, producing bassy raindrop sounds that feel more muted and mellow. This creates a more subdued typing sound that can be appealing for quieter environments, while still maintaining a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches can be affected by the choice of board and keycaps, but their inherent sound qualities present them as distinct options for different user preferences.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, likely providing a seamless motion with each keystroke. This can enhance the overall typing enjoyment, making it feel effortless. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch delivers a mild yet substantial typing experience, striking a balance between being approachable and providing enough feedback for a satisfying press. Furthermore, the polished characteristics of the Rose ensure a refined touch with smooth key travel, allowing users to enjoy a gentle and fluid typing experience. This indicates that while the Caramel Pudding may lean towards sheer smoothness, the Rose switch offers a more rounded, polished feel.
In summary, both the Caramel Pudding and KTT Rose switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding excels with its vibrant, clacky sound and smooth feel, while the KTT Rose offers a bassy, mellow sound with a mild and polished typing sensation. Users seeking an engaging auditory experience might prefer the Caramel Pudding, whereas those looking for a more subdued sound paired with a smooth typing experience might find the KTT Rose more appealing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what qualities resonate most with your typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences regarding actuation force, sound signature, and typing experience. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 52 grams, the Caramel Pudding switch would be an excellent option for you. Its clacky sound and exquisitely smooth typing feel make it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging acoustic feedback and effortless keystrokes, whether for gaming, casual typing, or even light office work. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the KTT Rose switch would be a better fit. With its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and mild yet polished feel, this switch provides a comforting typing experience that balances weight and responsiveness, making it suitable for typing for extended periods without fatigue. Ultimately, choose the Caramel Pudding for a lively and airy feel, or opt for the KTT Rose when you want a deeper auditory experience combined with a more grounded typing sensation.
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