HMX Caramel Pudding vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options to consider are the HMX Caramel Pudding and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature combined with an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making them an appealing choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing and want a switch that feels luxurious under their fingers. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switches prioritize speed and precision, featuring a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance that allows for quick and effortless actuation. This makes them particularly effective for gamers or typists who thrive on rapid input and want a pristine sound profile. Each switch has its unique strengths—whether you prefer the satisfying acoustic presence of the Caramel Pudding or the swift responsiveness of the Speed Silver. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Speed Silver switches, the distinctions between the top housings are particularly notable. The Caramel Pudding employs a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is ideal for users who prefer a muted auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucence. This allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which also enhances the visibility of RGB lighting. Therefore, while both switches provide a unique typing experience, their top housing materials significantly influence the tonal characteristics produced during use.
Turning to the bottom housings, both the Caramel Pudding and Speed Silver switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar auditory experience. Like the top housing of the Caramel Pudding, the nylon material for the bottom housing promotes a deeper sound profile, allowing for a rounder and more subdued bottom-out sound. This uniformity in bottom housing means that, regardless of the differences in top housings, both switches will deliver a consistent tactile feel and sound when pressed down. The shared nylon bottom housing serves to unify their performance, allowing for a more homogenous experience when typing.
Ultimately, the juxtaposition of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housings alongside the consistency of the nylon bottom housing permits an intriguing blend of acoustic characteristics in both switches. Users of the Caramel Pudding can expect a rich, full sound primarily driven by the nylon top housing, while Speed Silver users will enjoy a more resonant sound profile bolstered by the polycarbonate material. However, they will equally appreciate the grounded feel provided by the nylon bottom housing during keypresses. Thus, while the design aesthetics and sound profiles diverge, both switches can achieve a balance of auditory satisfaction and tactile response, illustrating how different materials can yield complementary experiences.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. When it comes to bottom out force, however, there is a notable difference; the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams, while the Speed Silver's bottom out force is a slightly heavier 55 grams. This means that while both switches are similar in their actuation feel, the Speed Silver provides a more substantial bottoming out experience due to the increased force needed to fully press the switch down. As for their overall weight experience, the Caramel Pudding can be considered the lighter option because it requires less force to bottom out. This may be preferable for those looking for comfort during lengthy typing or gaming sessions, whereas the heavier feel of the Speed Silver could appeal to users who enjoy a stronger push during key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver offers a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding would provide a deeper pressing experience, appealing to those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the Speed Silver, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and users looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more responsive key experience, the Speed Silver would be the preferable choice due to its reduced travel distance, while the Caramel Pudding would be better suited for those who prefer the more traditional feel of longer 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 linear switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature, which can provide a satisfying acoustic feedback during typing. This quality often appeals to users who enjoy a bit more auditory engagement with their keystrokes. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch presents a more neutral sound profile. As a switch with moderate actuation force requirements and a balanced sound level, the Speed Silver is designed to be versatile, making it suitable for various environments whether at home or in a professional setting. Ultimately, while the Caramel Pudding offers a more pronounced auditory experience, the Speed Silver delivers a more subdued and adaptable sound, allowing users to find satisfaction depending on their preferences and context.
When analyzing the feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is renowned for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance and friction which elevates the overall tactile experience. This makes it enjoyable for long typing sessions, providing that luxurious sense of fluidity. The TTC Speed Silver, on the other hand, is described as having a mild feeling; it offers a gentle typing experience that caters to a broader range of users. Additionally, the Speed Silver is polished, indicating not only a smooth key travel but also that efforts have likely been made to reduce friction further. As a result, both switches emphasize a refined feel, but the Caramel Pudding leans more towards luxurious smoothness while the Speed Silver balances smoothness with accessibility and mild feedback.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and TTC Speed Silver linear switches each bring their unique qualities to the table. The Caramel Pudding combines a clackier sound with an exquisitely smooth feel, appealing to those who appreciate a more auditory and luxurious typing experience. Meanwhile, the Speed Silver offers a versatile and neutral sound paired with a mild and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for users seeking speed and efficiency. Depending on your preferences for sound and touch, both switches can cater to your needs effectively, providing high-quality typing experiences in their own ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you appreciate a sound profile that features a resonant and clacky noise, along with an exquisitely smooth typing feel, the Caramel Pudding would be an excellent choice. This switch's medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams supports a comfortable typing experience that many find enjoyable for day-to-day use, especially during long typing sessions or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you are someone who prioritizes speed and precision, the TTC Speed Silver would likely serve you better. With its slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams and reduced travel distance, this switch facilitates quick actuation, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing where every millisecond counts. Its neutral sound profile ensures it fits well in both office environments and for personal use. In the end, assess your needs: choose the Caramel Pudding for a more tactile and auditory experience, or the Speed Silver for a streamlined and rapid response when speed is of the essence.
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