HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Huano Strawberry Latte stand out as compelling options for those who prefer linear switches. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its uniquely resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing experience, making it an appealing choice for typists who appreciate auditory feedback and a satisfying feel with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a super smooth typing experience, benefiting from the latest mold technology, and presents a balanced sound profile that strikes a fine equilibrium—neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant. Those looking for a little auditory character may lean towards the Caramel Pudding, while those who prioritize an unintrusive auditory experience might prefer the Strawberry Latte. 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
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Huano Strawberry Latte, a stark contrast emerges in their top housing compositions. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon, a classic material recognized for its softer properties that enhance the auditory experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is in stark contrast to the Strawberry Latte, which features POK (polyketone) as its top housing material. POK offers a distinct advantage in terms of durability and smoothness, with a friction coefficient that is marginally higher than that of nylon. Consequently, while both switches can deliver satisfying tactile experiences, the Caramel Pudding's softer nylon top yields a more subdued sound, whereas the Strawberry Latte's POK material offers a sharper, clackier acoustic feedback.
On the other hand, both switches share common ground in their bottom housing, both of which are constructed from nylon. This similarity in material contributes to a rich, resonant sound profile regardless of the differing top housings. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs sound effectively due to its softer composition, which ultimately results in a duller and rounder sound characteristic. When a key is bottomed out, users will experience a consistent auditory experience in terms of depth and fullness from either switch. Therefore, while the top housings distinctly affect the overall sound profile, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing fosters a harmony of deeper sounds in both switches.
In considering the cumulative impacts of each housing material, we can see how the blend of characteristics presents itself during use. The Caramel Pudding’s nylon materials in both the top and bottom housing create a unified sound experience that emphasizes warmth and depth, while the Strawberry Latte combines the durability and smoothness of POK at the top with nylon at the bottom, producing a more versatile auditory feedback that leans toward a sharper, more responsive sound. While the top housing of each switch dictates the tonal quality when releasing keys, the nylon bottoms in both effectively modulate the bottom-out sound, ensuring that both switches provide satisfying auditory experiences, albeit through different acoustic lenses.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch with the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces becomes evident. The Caramel Pudding switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Strawberry Latte not only lighter in terms of actuation force but also easier to press down to the bottom, enhancing its suitability for long typed sessions or gaming marathons without fatigue. In summary, those who prefer a lighter typing experience will find the Huano Strawberry Latte advantageous, while the HMX Caramel Pudding caters to users seeking a more substantial push feel due to its heavier forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users can expect a consistent feel when pressing down on either switch. Since their travel distances are the same, the experience will be similar in terms of key press response and feedback. Consequently, both switches will provide a comparable typing experience, with no preference for one over the other based solely on travel distance.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing an audible feedback that can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a bit of auditory stimulation while they type. This characteristic can be particularly appealing when using them in a quiet environment or during gaming sessions, as it announces each keystroke. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte switches offer a balanced sound profile. They're not overly quiet, yet they also lack the resonant clackiness of the Caramel Pudding, making them suitable for users who prefer a more subdued sound without completely sacrificing auditory feedback. It's important to note that the perception of sound can also vary based on the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, which means either switch could sound different depending on the setup.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Caramel Pudding switches are distinguished by their exquisitely smooth typing experience. This smoothness adds to the enjoyment of typing, making it appear almost effortless, which can be a significant advantage during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte switches are also reported to be super smooth, utilizing advanced molds from Huano, which enhances their overall performance. Both switches prioritize a smooth feel, catering to typists looking for a comfortable experience. Therefore, whether you choose Caramel Pudding or Strawberry Latte, you can expect a high level of tactile satisfaction during use.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, making them suitable choices for different types of users. While the Caramel Pudding provides a clackier sound that some may find energizing, the Strawberry Latte strikes a balance with its quieter profile while retaining a smooth feel. Typing on either switch should prove enjoyable due to their attention to smoothness, providing a pleasing experience whether you prioritize sound or a more muted option. Ultimately, your personal preference for sound and the intended use will guide you in choosing between these two high-quality linear switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences in terms of tactile feedback and sound. If you favor a slightly heavier keystroke and enjoy a more pronounced sound profile, the Caramel Pudding, with its 52 grams actuation force and resonant clacky sound, would be ideal for you. This switch is great for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a smooth feel and the dynamic audio feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with an actuation force of just 45 grams, the Strawberry Latte is the way to go. Its super smooth action and balanced sound profile make it an excellent choice for both gaming and typing, especially if you desire a more subdued auditory experience while still maintaining a satisfying feel. Therefore, consider how you use your keyboard—whether for gaming, productivity, or a mix of both—when deciding which switch aligns best with your style.
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