HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Sea Glass are two attractive linear switch options, each offering unique characteristics for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Caramel Pudding switches are renowned for their resonant and clacky sound signature, providing an exhilarating auditory feedback that many typists find delightful. Their exquisitely smooth typing feel offers a satisfying experience that samples the best of linear performance. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches stand out not only for their eye-catching pastel color options but also for their distinct typing experience; they deliver a dryness and airiness that, while unique, does not compromise their smoothness. With a moderate 62g bottom-out force, these switches provide an effortless, weightless feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and aesthetic tastes, making them compelling choices depending on what you prioritize in a keyboard setup. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Durock Sea Glass, both utilize nylon in their construction, though the Sea Glass incorporates a unique blend of nylon and UHMWPE. The Caramel Pudding's housing is described purely as nylon, a well-established material known for its ability to provide a deeper, rounder sound profile due to its softer nature. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound, leading to a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Sea Glass employs a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, which results in a brighter sound profile but with a pleasant resonance. While both materials are designed to enhance the typing experience, the incorporation of UHMWPE in the Sea Glass may lend a crisper auditory signature compared to the more robust, full-bodied sounds produced by the Caramel Pudding's nylon housing.
Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, which continues the theme of producing a fuller and deeper sound profile. This means that when typing, users will experience similar sound characteristics at the bottom-out point, where the bottom housing predominantly influences the auditory feedback and feel. However, the Sea Glass's polymer blend may still provide subtle differences in sound due to its unique composition. Therefore, despite having similar core materials in their bottom housings, the slight variations in material properties may affect the overall sound experience. The softer nature of the Caramel Pudding's nylon could lead to a more cushioned and muted sound, while the Sea Glass's blend might deliver a slightly sharper bottom-out sound.
Finally, the distinction between the top housing materials also plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the Caramel Pudding’s nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and rounder sound upon key release, the Durock Sea Glass's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend imparts a brighter quality to the sound upon release. This means that users can expect a significant difference in the auditory feedback when letting go of a key, with the Sea Glass providing a livelier response. Despite these differences in materials, the shared nylon commonality in both switches indicates that they both strive for an engaging typing experience, albeit expressed through distinct auditory characteristics. Thus, while they share some foundational aspects, the nuances introduced by their unique materials set them apart in terms of sound and feel, creating diverse options for users seeking specific tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to register a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Caramel Pudding at 52 grams and the Sea Glass at 62 grams. This means that while both switches feel similar for initial key presses, the Sea Glass requires a heavier force to fully bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, users who favor lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Caramel Pudding, while those who appreciate a heavier key feel may find the Sea Glass more appealing due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it’s evident that they differ slightly. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Glass measures 3.8 mm. This means that the Sea Glass has a slightly longer travel distance, which may offer a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keypress. In contrast, the Caramel Pudding, with its shorter 3.6 mm distance, might appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and more rapid actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference; those favoring a more responsive and snappy typing experience might lean towards the Caramel Pudding, whereas users who appreciate a more pronounced travel might opt for the Sea Glass.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 switches have a resonant and clacky sound signature, providing a pronounced auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This characteristic can contribute to an engaging typing experience, particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and sonorous interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches produce a uniquely hollow sound signature, which may come across as softer and airier in contrast to the Caramel Pudding's clack. This lack of resonance gives the Sea Glass a more subdued auditory experience, making it possibly more suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a less obtrusive sound profile. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, the sound will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard design and keycap material, so consistent results may depend on your complete setup.
When considering feel, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches deliver an exquisitely smooth typing experience, which appeals to many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a seamless keypress. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches offer a distinctly frictionless feel, described as light and airy while maintaining their smoothness. They provide a mild typing experience that is approachable for most users, as their lighter actuation force makes them easy to press, promoting comfort during extended typing sessions. The Sea Glass switches also embody a feathery quality, which further alleviates any potential finger fatigue, making them an attractive option for gamers, students, or professionals alike. In essence, while both switches provide a smooth feel, the Caramel Pudding emphasizes a more pronounced typing experience, while the Sea Glass leans towards a lighter and more effortless touch.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Durock Sea Glass linear switches present distinct auditory and tactile experiences suited for different personal preferences. While the Caramel Pudding is ideal for those who enjoy a resonant, clacky sound along with a smooth feel, the Sea Glass caters to those seeking a soft, airy sound with an exceptionally light touch. Regardless of the choice, both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience—each appealing to different sensibilities.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you thrive on a medium-light key feel with a distinctly resonant and clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding could be your ideal choice; it's particularly well-suited for those who require a smooth typing experience that feels both satisfying and playful, making it great for casual typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial bottom-out force paired with a uniquely airy and almost ethereal typing sensation, the Sea Glass switch may be the better option for you. Its frictionless properties and hollow sound signature create a typing experience that is both refreshing and gentle, making it perfect for extended typing sessions or if you're someone who enjoys a more understated aesthetic, given its attractive pastel colors. Ultimately, it boils down to whether you prioritize a lively sound and feel with the Caramel Pudding or a subtler, smoother typing experience with the Sea Glass; either way, both switches offer distinct qualities that can elevate your mechanical keyboard experience significantly.
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