HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding, celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature, provides an exquisitely smooth typing experience that many users find satisfying. Its distinctive auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy a tactile response. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon represents the hallmark of linear switches, showcasing a buttery smooth typing feel, enhanced by a progressive spring and KTT's innovative dry-lube design. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, these switches appeal to users seeking a more subdued and refined typing experience without the distractions of sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two linear switches will hinge on personal preference, whether one favors the acoustic feedback of the Caramel Pudding or the silky smoothness of the Sea Salt Lemon. 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
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches, we see a clear distinction between their top housing compositions, with the Caramel Pudding utilizing nylon and the Sea Salt Lemon opting for polycarbonate. The nylon top housing in the Caramel Pudding provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, characteristic of its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing, enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sea Salt Lemon offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, producing more clarity and resonance. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly for users who wish to showcase RGB lighting through their switches.
However, when we shift our focus to the bottom housing, both switches share the same material: nylon. This consistency in housing material means that both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Sea Salt Lemon exhibit similar sound characteristics from the bottom housing while typing. The nylon bottom housing’s impact on the bottom-out sound and feel contributes to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, making both switches consistent in this regard. The softness of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a round and plush typing sensation regardless of the contrasting top housings. Both switches therefore maintain a similar depth in sound when bottoming out, even if their initial release characteristics differ due to their top housing materials.
In essence, the divergence in top housing materials between the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Sea Salt Lemon results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different user preferences. While the nylon top housing results in a warmer and more muted typing experience, the polycarbonate top introduces brightness and clarity. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing serves as a unifying element, ensuring that both switches still deliver a satisfying bottom-out response that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether a user prefers a softer, rounded auditory experience or a sharper, more crisp sound while typing, with both models providing a unique, yet harmoniously consistent, feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it becomes clear that both switches exhibit similar actuation forces, with both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the initial resistance when pressing a key. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces, with the Caramel Pudding at 52 grams and the Sea Salt Lemon at 53 grams. While the difference is minimal, it does signify that the Sea Salt Lemon is marginally heavier at the bottoming out stage. For users who prefer a less physically taxing experience for longer typing sessions, either switch would suit their needs well due to their medium-light nature. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the KTT Sea Salt Lemon for its slightly heavier bottom out force, as it provides a firmer push at the end of the keystroke. Ultimately, both switches deliver a similar initial actuation experience, but the Sea Salt Lemon presents a fractionally heavier feel upon bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sea Salt Lemon measures 4 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, offering a quicker and more responsive keystroke, which can be especially beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon’s 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, which some users might prefer for its reassuring depth and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will hinge on your personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus the depth of keystroke.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 HMX Caramel Pudding switch is known for its resonant and clacky sound profile, which can provide an engaging auditory feedback during typing. This characteristic may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced, lively sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound, offering a mellow tone that is less obtrusive and more suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office. This makes the Sea Salt Lemon a versatile option for users who prefer subtlety in their typing experience while still maintaining an adequate auditory response. Both options can produce satisfying sounds, but their overall character will differ significantly.
In terms of feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which can provide a premium experience for users who value a seamless, fluid keystroke. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience enhanced by its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Caramel Pudding focuses more on delivering a refined type feel, the Sea Salt Lemon exemplifies a mild and approachable typing sensation, catering to users looking for comfort without overwhelming force feedback. Both switches promise smoothness, but their nuances can influence user preference based on typing style and comfort.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding stands out with its clacky sound and smooth typing action, while the Sea Salt Lemon appeals to those seeking a low-pitched, neutral sound combined with a gentle, buttery typing feel. Choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a more subdued and gentle typing experience; either way, you're bound to enjoy the satisfying characteristics of a quality linear switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for both sound and feel. If you love a resonant, clacky sound that adds character to your typing experience paired with an exquisitely smooth feel, then the HMX Caramel Pudding would be an excellent choice for you. This switch is ideal if you're looking for something that offers a lively auditory experience, potentially enhancing your enjoyment during long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued, low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is likely to be more to your liking. Its buttery smooth typing experience, supported by a progressive spring and dry-lube design, ensures that you get a gentle, mild feel that’s comfortable for everyday use. This makes the Sea Salt Lemon a versatile option suitable for both home and work environments, especially if you lean towards a switch that is approachable and neutral. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you seek auditory feedback and a lively engagement with your keyboard or a more understated, smooth typing experience.
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