HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Sunset Gleam each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which adds an auditory delight to each keystroke, coupled with an exquisitely smooth typing feel that many users find appealing, especially for long typing sessions. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, strikes a balance between performance and comfort with its unique blend of materials that provides a subtle top-out sensation and satisfying clack sound. Additionally, the excellent factory lubrication from HMX ensures gamers and typists can enjoy consistent keystrokes. While both switches are linear, appealing to those who prefer a smooth and direct press without tactile bumps or clicks, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Sunset Gleam, a clear distinction arises in the type of plastic used for the top housing. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's softer structure, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This material imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the switch, as polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for a more resonant and clear output. Thus, while both switches may deliver satisfying performance, their sound characteristics differ significantly based on the top housing material, influencing the auditory experience.
Interestingly, both the Caramel Pudding and Sunset Gleam share the same nylon material for their bottom housing. This commonality ensures that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile from the bottom housing, as nylon is effective in sound absorption. When the key is pressed down, the impact of the nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller sound and rounded tactile feedback, creating a similar bottom-out experience in both switches. Thus, despite the top housings diverging in materials and sound profiles, the shared nylon composition in the bottoms provides a consistent foundation in terms of feel and sound production during key presses.
When considering the overall switch performance, it is crucial to recognize how the combination of housing materials affects the typing experience. The distinct sound profiles resulting from the top housing materials will be evident when releasing a key, with the Sunset Gleam producing a sharper sound versus the Caramel Pudding’s more muted auditory feedback. However, both switches will provide a satisfying bottom-out experience due to the nylon bottom housing. Consequently, users can expect a nuanced typing experience where the different materials influence the character of the sound and feel, while still enjoying a common baseline due to the shared nylon construction in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we can see some key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that may influence user preference. The Caramel Pudding has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. As a result, users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons might find the Sunset Gleam more appealing. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding's heavier actuation and bottom out forces will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches offer a different typing experience, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, whereas the Caramel Pudding is heavier in comparison.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch have slightly different travel distances, with the Caramel Pudding measuring 3.6 mm and the Sunset Gleam at 3.5 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the shorter option, while the Caramel Pudding provides a slightly longer travel distance. Those who favor rapid response times, such as gamers, might prefer the Sunset Gleam due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker keystrokes. Conversely, if you enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing a key, the Caramel Pudding's longer travel distance may be more appealing, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, while both switches are designed to be responsive, the subtle difference in their travel distances will cater to different user preferences in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 switch is renowned for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which provides an engaging auditory experience while typing. This distinct sound can create a satisfying aural feedback that many users find enjoyable. Meanwhile, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a more subtle top-out with a satisfying clack, crafted from a blend of materials that balances sound with feel. While both switches exhibit a clack element in their sound profiles, the Caramel Pudding is likely to be more pronounced and resonant, making it a better choice for users who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch excels with its exquisitely smooth typing experience. This smoothness makes it ideal for those who favor a seamless keystroke without any interruptions or disturbances during typing. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam provides an enjoyable tactile sensation thanks to its excellent factory lube and material composition, offering a unique blend that enhances the overall typing experience. While the Caramel Pudding emphasizes smoothness, the Sunset Gleam's performance relies more on the combination of its materials and lubrication, leading to a slightly different yet satisfying typing feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches present distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding’s clacky sound and smooth feel make it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, whereas the Sunset Gleam balances sound and feel with its subtle clack and satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, while you may find similarities in their linear switch nature, the individual qualities of each will guide your decision based on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force. If you prefer a medium-light switch that offers a resonant and clacky sound profile along with an exquisitely smooth typing experience, the Caramel Pudding might be the right choice for you. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback while typing or gaming, enhancing the overall experience and enjoyment. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter actuation force and a switch that delivers a subtle top-out with a satisfying clack, the Sunset Gleam could be the better option. This switch is perfect for users who desire effortless key presses and an exceptionally smooth feel, thanks to its excellent factory lube. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and sound preferences, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is tailored to your liking.
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