HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both stand out as exceptional linear options, each with its own unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their distinctly clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches also exhibit a resonant and clacky sound, but they take it a step further with an impeccable factory lube job that results in an incredibly silky smooth typing experience. While both switches provide a satisfying linear feel, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize auditory feedback like the Caramel Pudding switches or a buttery-smooth experience like that offered by the Strawberry Wine (V2). 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
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) showcase distinct variations in their top housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively compared to harder materials, creating a dampened yet rounded acoustic signature. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) employs a Ly top housing, a newer material characterized by its bright sound signature. It delivers resonant clacks during typing, highlighting the differences in how the two switch types engage auditory feedback.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals an interesting similarity that ties their performances together. Both the Caramel Pudding and Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a uniform sound profile that emphasizes the fullness associated with nylon's properties. This shared material ensures that, regardless of the contrasting top housings, both switches will maintain a deeper sound characteristic when bottoming out. As such, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall acoustics, often favoring a subdued and controlled sound experience.
While the top housings of the Caramel Pudding and Strawberry Wine (V2) diverge in material choice, leading to differing sound profiles, the consistency of the nylon material in the bottom housings allows for some crossover in performance. When pressed, the qualities imparted by the nylon bottom housing dominate the bottom-out experience, fostering a muffled and rounded sound. Meanwhile, the top housings play their pivotal role in defining the sound produced upon key release. This dynamic interplay between the two materials emphasizes how the choice of housing can dramatically alter the typing experience, inviting users to select their preferred auditory feedback and tactile response.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we find that both switches share identical specifications for actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches require an actuation force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 52 grams when pressed all the way down. This similarity means that users will experience a consistent typing feel across both options. With their medium-light weight, these switches cater to those who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions or gaming, making them suitable for long hours of use without causing fatigue. Since both switches have the same actuation and bottom out forces, they provide a comparable typing experience, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of the choice between the two.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches provide the same feel and feedback, resulting in a uniform experience for typists and gamers alike. With such matching specifications, users can expect similar results in terms of key response and actuation, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer a consistent travel distance in their keyboard.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches exhibit a resonant and clacky sound profile that makes for an engaging auditory experience. The Caramel Pudding switches produce a sharp, crisp sound that captures the essence of a typical clacky linear switch, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) takes this a step further with a heightened emphasis on the crispness of the sound, providing a bright and percussive auditory feedback. The higher-pitched notes of the Strawberry Wine (V2) contribute to a clean and immersive sound, but since both switches share similar characteristics, users can expect a fulfilling aural experience no matter which they choose. It’s also important to consider that factors like your choice of keyboard and keycaps can influence the overall sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are known for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, comparable to the silky feel offered by the Strawberry Wine (V2). The factory lubrication on the Strawberry Wine switches enhances the smoothness even further, creating an impression of minimal resistance during key presses. Both switches prioritize a seamless typing motion, so users will generally achieve a delightful touch sensation with either option. The emphasis on this smooth feel makes both switches appealing for those who prefer a fluid typing experience without any hindrance.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches provide similar auditory and tactile qualities, each delivering their own version of a resonant, clacky sound and a silky smooth typing feel. While the specifics may vary slightly, such as the clarity and pitch of the sounds or the degree of lubrication enhancing the smoothness, users can confidently expect both options to yield an engaging typing experience. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in selecting between these two great linear switches, but either choice promises a delightful keyboard experience for any newcomer.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch can greatly depend on your preferences for sound and tactile experience. If you enjoy a clacky and resonant auditory feedback that delivers a smooth typing feel, the Caramel Pudding might be your best bet, especially if you favor a medium-light force with its crisp sound signature that adds an enjoyable layer to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize not only an equally engaging clacky sound but also a silky smoothness due to an impeccable factory lube job, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the ideal choice for you. This switch allows for a remarkably fluid keystroke that minimizes resistance, making it perfect for those who want a luxurious feel with each press. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique auditory and tactile experience, so consider how each one aligns with your typing style and preferences in order to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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