HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary significantly based on individual typing styles and sound preferences. The HMX Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant and clacky sound, providing a fun auditory feedback that many typists and gamers enjoy. Their linear design ensures an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them ideal for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke without the tactile bump associated with other switch types. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches present a more balanced typing experience, featuring a neutral sound signature that produces the sought-after "thock" that enthusiasts crave. Their superior performance is enhanced by a dustproof stem that reduces wobble, providing a refined tactile sensation ideal for users looking for precision and consistency in their typing. While both switches have their distinct advantages—one highlighting sound and smoothness, and the other emphasizing tactile refinement and durability—there's much more to explore about their specific characteristics and how they might cater to your personal preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer distinct auditory experiences due to the differences in their top housing materials. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound waves and results in a duller and rounder auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which significantly alters the acoustic profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, providing a more clear and resonant typing experience. As such, while both switches fundamentally aim to enhance the typing experience, the distinct materials used in their top housings lead to contrasting sound signatures.
The bottom housings for both switches, however, share the same material: nylon. This commonality leads to a unified auditory experience when it comes to the feel and sound profile of bottoming out in both switches. The nylon material in the bottom housing, characteristic of its softer nature, promotes a deeper and fuller sound, further absorbing sound waves and dulling the acoustics. Because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they will produce similar sensations when the keys are fully pressed down, regardless of the contrasting sounds induced by the differing top materials. This contributes to a more cohesive typing experience for users who favor the bottoming-out feel provided by nylon.
In summary, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) differ in their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—their bottom housing is consistent, with both using nylon. This creates a shared auditory foundation, where users can expect a similar deeper and fuller sound profile upon key press across both switches. Yet, the experience diverges when keys are released; the polycarbonate of the Sticky Rice (V2) will yield a more pronounced and clear sound, adding layers of complexity to the tactile experience. These contrasting materials thus shape not only the sound profiles but also the overall sensory experience each switch delivers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, we see some interesting differences. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, designating it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Everglide switch will require less force to actuate, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Caramel Pudding, being slightly heavier both in actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches are relatively accessible, the Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter option, with a slightly softer feel compared to the Caramel Pudding.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Caramel Pudding boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you opt for the Caramel Pudding switch, you will experience a more substantial depth with each press, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more tactile feel. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its shorter travel distance, can provide a quicker response, making it ideal for gamers seeking rapid keystrokes. While both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional options like 4.0 mm, the Caramel Pudding's design allows for a deeper press, catering to users who prioritize a fuller typing experience. Thus, those interested in responsiveness should lean towards the Sticky Rice (V2), while users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes would likely prefer the Caramel Pudding.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 linear switch is characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature, making it quite engaging and lively during use. The auditory feedback can enhance typing enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate a more expressive sound with their keystrokes. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch provides a more neutral sound signature that leans towards the desirable "thock" that many enthusiasts crave. This more muted yet satisfying noise creates a balanced auditory experience that can be appreciated in quieter settings or during long typing sessions. Ultimately, while both produce distinct sounds, they cater to different auditory preferences, and the final sound produced will also depend on the keyboard build, including materials and keycap selections.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, offering a seamless keystroke that is pleasant to the fingers. This smoothness can lead to less finger fatigue, especially during prolonged use. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) excels in providing a refined tactile sensation along with an exceptionally smooth keystroke, thanks to its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. This contributes to a typing experience that feels stable and controlled, appealing to those who prefer a well-grounded feel beneath their fingers. While both switches offer smoothness, the Caramel Pudding emphasizes sheer fluidity, while the Sticky Rice (V2) harmonizes a smooth typing action with an added layer of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches each present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among enthusiasts. The Caramel Pudding's resonant clackiness can provide a more lively auditory feedback, while the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a refined, neutral tone with a hint of thock. Both switches deliver smooth keystrokes but with varying emphases, appealing to users who might prioritize sound or feel in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference and the overall keyboard configuration, including the type of board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you seek. If you enjoy a medium-light feel combined with an exuberant and clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switches might be the perfect fit for you. Their smooth action and lively acoustics make them particularly enjoyable for casual typing or gaming where a bit of auditory feedback can enhance the experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke and a more refined, balanced typing sensation, the Sticky Rice (V2) is an excellent choice. With its subtle "thock" sound and exceptionally smooth keystrokes, this switch caters to those who desire a polished feel and performance without any distracting noise. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize sound, feel, and overall typing experience, as each switch has unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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