HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX SU serve as compelling options, each offering unique attributes to enhance your typing experience. The Caramel Pudding switches are characterized by their resonant, clacky sound signature, making them an excellent choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback and a smooth typing feel. In contrast, the HMX SU features a full PA12 housing with a T5 stem, providing a subtle yet deeper sound profile, which caters to those seeking a more subdued acoustic experience. Both switches are linear, offering a consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and typing feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX SU switches are notably similar, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is integral to the overall typing experience, as nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The inherent qualities of nylon—being a softer plastic—allow it to absorb sound more effectively, creating a more muted and rounded auditory feedback when typing. Therefore, both the Caramel Pudding and the SU will deliver a satisfying and rich sound experience, providing users with the classic feel and acoustic signature that nylon is known for.
In both switches, the nylon top and bottom housings work in concert to enhance the overall feel of each keystroke. The bottom housing particularly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound produced upon releasing a key. Since both the Caramel Pudding and the SU share the same nylon material, users can expect consistent auditory and tactile feedback regardless of the model they choose, ensuring that the nuances of each keystroke yield a full-bodied sound. The uniformity in materials means that enthusiasts and casual users alike can appreciate a similar feel across both switches.
Despite potential differences in design or other internal components, the consistent use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the Caramel Pudding and the SU guarantees that the resulting sound profile will be largely indistinguishable. This means that even if one model has unique characteristics or features, the fundamental sound experience will remain the same due to the shared materials. As such, users can select either switch based on aesthetic preferences or additional features without compromising on the desired typing acoustics, ultimately leading to a comparable experience in both models.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX SU linear switches exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, making them comparable in terms of initial keypress feel. However, they diverge in their bottom out forces, with the Caramel Pudding registering at 52 grams while the SU is slightly lighter at 50 grams. This difference suggests that while both switches offer a medium-light typing experience, the Caramel Pudding provides a more substantial feel upon bottoming out. Consequently, for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the HMX SU would be the preferable option. In contrast, those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback and a firmer push might lean towards the Caramel Pudding despite its marginally heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they exhibit the same feel when pressed down upon. This identical travel distance ensures that users experience similar results in terms of key actuation and feedback, providing a consistent typing experience across both switches. Since neither switch has a shorter or longer travel distance than the other, users can expect an equal response and performance when using either option.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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 HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is characterized by a resonant, clacky sound signature that adds an engaging auditory experience while typing. This distinctive quality makes it appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch produces a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, which may be more subdued but offers a different kind of satisfaction for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches can vary in sound based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but if you're looking for vivacity, the Caramel Pudding shines, while the SU offers a more understated tone.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Caramel Pudding delivers an exquisitely smooth typing experience, which is often a crucial factor for typists seeking seamless keystrokes. This smoothness can enhance typing speed and reduce fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its PA12 housing and T5 stem, is also designed for smooth actuation, yet the feel may differ slightly due to its construction. While both switches aim for a fluid touch, the Caramel Pudding’s renowned smoothness may give it the edge for those who prioritize this quality.
In summary, if you're torn between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX SU linear switches, consider the sound and feel that resonate with you personally. The Caramel Pudding offers a clackier sound and a signature smooth feel, while the SU provides a deeper, subtler acoustic profile with a satisfying linear action. Whether you lean towards a more pronounced auditory feedback or a quieter keystroke experience, both switches promise satisfying performance, allowing you to find your ideal typing experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it’s essential to consider your typing preference and usage scenario. If you prefer a typing experience that offers a slightly heavier resistance with a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams, and you enjoy a resonant, clacky sound signature for that satisfying auditory feedback while typing or gaming, the Caramel Pudding is likely the better choice for you. Its exquisitely smooth feel can enhance the overall typing experience, making it ideal for both casual use and gaming. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience with the 50-gram bottom out force of the SU, which affords a more subtle and deeper sound profile due to its PA12 housing and T5 stem, this switch aligns better with users who prioritize a gentler touch and a more muted audio-visual feedback. The SU’s smooth feel could be more suited for long typing sessions where fatigue might be a concern. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preferences in sound, feel, and the types of tasks you engage with daily.
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