HMX Caramel Pudding vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Swift, both of which fall into the linear switch category but offer distinct characteristics. The Caramel Pudding switches are revered for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing an auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. Moreover, they deliver an exquisitely smooth typing experience, making them a great choice for those who appreciate a luxurious feel under their fingers. Conversely, the HMX Swift switches are known for their deeper sound profile, thanks to their full nylon housings, which contribute to a pleasantly muted auditory experience. This switch features a delicate 42g actuation force that balances ease of use with a silky smooth operation, appealing to users who prefer a more gentle pressing experience. While both switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience, their sound profiles and actuation forces offer unique advantages depending on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Swift feature identical housing materials in both their top and bottom components, utilizing nylon, a classic switch housing material that enhances the overall typing experience. As mentioned in their descriptions, the use of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound waves compared to harder plastics. This quality leads to a rounder and more nuanced auditory response when typing, making both switches feel and sound remarkably similar. As such, users of either model can expect a consistent auditory experience characterized by a pleasant depth during both key presses and releases.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the typing experience, the nylon used in both the Caramel Pudding and Swift ensures that the characteristics of sound absorption are uniformly present. The bottom housing, being more influential during the bottoming-out phase of a key press, helps cushion the impact and dampen the noise created when the key is fully engaged. Meanwhile, the nylon top housing continues to contribute to the sound profile upon releasing the key, further enhancing the cohesive auditory experience that typists may appreciate in both models. This harmonious combination results in a sound that is not only rich and full but also consistent across both switches.
While the specifics of the overall switch design and actuation mechanisms may differ, the identical choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings means that users can expect a familiar tactile and auditory response from both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the HMX Swift. This similarity allows enthusiasts to confidently choose either option based on aesthetic or functional preferences without compromising on the beloved sound profile and feel that nylon provides. Thus, regardless of which model is chosen, the user can anticipate a refined and satisfying typing experience that remains true to the qualities afforded by the nylon housing.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding and HMX Swift linear switches have notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, affecting their overall typing and gaming experience. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, characterized as medium-light. In contrast, the Swift switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. This means that the Swift requires less force to register a keystroke and also yields a slightly lower resistance when pressed all the way down, catering to those who might type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. Overall, if users are looking for a more substantial typing feel, the Caramel Pudding might be the preferable choice, while those who favor lighter switches will likely appreciate the Swift's softer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we find a notable difference between the two. The Caramel Pudding has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Swift exceeds that with a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the Caramel Pudding offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for quick keystrokes, which is desirable for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Swift, with its longer travel distance, provides a deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should be influenced by your preference for responsiveness versus depth, with Caramel Pudding being the better option for a snappier feel and Swift catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced key press.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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 presents a resonant, clacky sound signature that's characterized by a sharp, snappy noise when pressed. This crisp and percussive quality is well-suited to users looking for auditory feedback during typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch features a deeper sound profile attributed to its full nylon housings. While HMX switches generally lean towards a brighter sound signature, the Swifts provide a richer and fuller auditory experience, giving users a taste of deeper tonal qualities without diving into excessively loud territory. Both switches, however, will still be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps, which can further shape their individual sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switch is noted for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which provides a sense of fluidity while typing. In comparison, the HMX Swift excels with its easy-to-press nature, characterized by a gentle resistance during key presses that significantly reduces finger fatigue. The Swift's light actuation force of 42g enhances the typing experience, making it effortless and comfortable during extended use. Additionally, it offers a bouncy feedback sensation, providing an engaging responsiveness that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. The creamy texture also contributes to a buttery smooth experience for the Swift, ensuring users glide easily from key to key.
Overall, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and Swift linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. The Caramel Pudding stands out with its clacky sound and smooth typing experience, while the Swift emphasizes a deeper sound profile combined with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel. For users seeking a comfortable and responsive typing experience, both switches will deliver enjoyable results, though the specific characteristics may appeal to varying tastes in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing or gaming habits. If you favor a medium-light actuation with a distinctly resonant, clacky sound signature that gives a lively auditory feedback during your keystrokes, the Caramel Pudding might be the ideal switch for you. This makes it especially enjoyable for typists who appreciate a tactile yet smooth typing experience with some auditory flair. On the other hand, if you desire a lighter touch with a deeper sound profile and an exceptionally silky feel, the HMX Swift would be your best bet. Its light actuation force and feathery feedback pattern can greatly enhance comfort during extended sessions, making it perfect for gamers or anyone who types for long periods without the extra strain of heavier switches. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing or gaming you value most—sound and tactile feel with the Caramel Pudding, or a smooth, effortless experience with the Swift—as you make your choice.
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