HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the selection can significantly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The HMX Caramel Pudding, known for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth type feel, appeals to users who crave an auditory feedback that enhances their typing rhythm and energizes their writing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a unique innovation in the realm of switches with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound, which contrasts with the clacky bottom-out sound, providing a balanced auditory profile. This switch delivers a silky smooth type feel that remains pleasantly tactile without being overly polished, making it ideal for users who desire a more muted, yet responsive experience. Each switch has its distinct charm, catering to different preferences—whether you prioritize sound or a quiet typing environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, distinct differences emerge which impact sound profiles and overall user experience. The Caramel Pudding utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a muted and rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is characteristically stiffer and generates a sharper, more resonant sound. The differences in these materials lead to contrasting audio outputs; while the Caramel Pudding creates a warm and enveloping sound, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more crisp and clear auditory experience.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as the Caramel Pudding and the Semi-Silent Linear both feature nylon in this area. This mutual choice of material positively influences the typing experience by delivering the same deeper and fuller sound profile when the switch is bottomed out. The use of nylon in the bottom housing helps absorb sound and tactile feedback to create a more muted and satisfying key press, which balances the contrasting top housings. Therefore, when pressed down, both switches will provide similar bottom-out characteristics due to the properties of nylon, regardless of the more distinctive sound profile produced by their respective top materials.
The interplay between top and bottom housings in these two switches illustrates how varying materials affect overall performance and sound. The nylon bottom housing in both models ensures a deep acoustic quality when keys are fully pressed, while the contrasting top housings influence sound when keys are released. In the case of the Caramel Pudding, the nylon top complements the bottom housing by sustaining that muted character, while the polycarbonate top of the Semi-Silent Linear adds a lively, bright ending note to the keystroke. Ultimately, both switches create an engaging typing experience through their unique combination of materials, offering users a choice between softer, warmer tones or sharper, more distinct sounds based on their preferences for auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Caramel Pudding has a notably lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a low-force typing experience that allows for longer periods of use without fatigue. In contrast, the actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear is unspecified, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Caramel Pudding’s 52 grams. This suggests that the Semi-Silent Linear may require more effort to press down fully. Consequently, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might be attracted to the Semi-Silent option. Overall, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter switch, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear tends to be heavier due to its higher bottom out force, which can influence the typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, there is a slight distinction to note. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive keypress, the Caramel Pudding might be the better choice for you, offering quicker actuations due to its shorter distance. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear, with its increased travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel, which some users might find preferable for typing or gaming when a deeper key press is desired. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Caramel Pudding is the shorter option, and the Semi-Silent Linear stands as the longer alternative.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky signature, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued auditory experience. While it presents a clacky bottom-out sound that provides satisfying confirmation of key presses, it has a whisper-quiet topping-out sound that minimizes disruption. This combination allows for a subtle yet present auditory feedback that is suitable for environments where noise might be a concern, offering a nice balance between a traditional tactile experience and quieter operation.
When it comes to the feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exceptionally smooth typing experience, promoting fluidity and efficiency during use. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a blend of mildness and responsiveness, achieving a gentle typing experience that is still engaging thanks to its snappy characteristics. The silky smooth nature of the Semi-Silent switch is coupled with a buttery sensation, creating an intuitive interaction that many users find appealing. Overall, while both switches emphasize a fluid typing experience, the Caramel Pudding leans more towards pure smoothness, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear balances smoothness with a touch of responsiveness.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch delivers a clacky sound profile and a notably smooth typing feel, ideal for users looking for traditional auditory feedback and a silky experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more nuanced sound profile with its quieter topping-out note and a balanced tactile experience that combines smoothness with responsiveness. While each switch has its distinctive qualities, users can expect enjoyable typing experiences from both options, tailored to their personal preferences and typing environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a medium-light typing experience and are drawn to a more pronounced sound profile, the Caramel Pudding is an excellent option. Its clacky auditory feedback and smooth keystroke can enhance your typing enjoyment, particularly if you're using your keyboard for casual gaming or typing at home where sound isn't a concern. On the other hand, if you operate in a quieter environment, such as an office or shared space, or if you prefer a slightly firmer keystroke with a more subdued sound, the Semi-Silent Linear is well-suited for you. This switch’s whisper-quiet topping-out sound, combined with a clacky bottom-out, allows you to type comfortably without distracting those around you. In summary, consider the Caramel Pudding for a lively, engaging feel and sound, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear serves you better in noise-sensitive situations, offering a balanced typing experience that doesn't compromise on responsiveness.
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