HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, selecting the right one can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing feel and a resonant, clacky sound signature that adds a unique auditory element to each keystroke. These characteristics make it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a satisfying tactile experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch stands out for its ingenious use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, delivering a remarkably smooth and creamy feel that delights typists with every press. Additionally, it offers a high-pitched and clacky sound that distinguishes it from many alternatives. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts but offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, making it important to consider personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream feature distinctly different housing materials which contribute uniquely to their respective sound profiles and typing experiences. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its softer properties, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound that absorbs more auditory vibrations. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream incorporates a proprietary blend for its top housing, which generates a high-pitched, clacky sound signature. This contrast in the materials used for the top housings suggests that while both switches will be pleasant to type on, the auditory feedback will differ substantially—one opting for a deeper resonance and the other for a sharper clarity.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences are even more pronounced. The Caramel Pudding again maintains the nylon material, promoting that deep sound quality, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream uses POK (polyketone) for its bottom housing. POK is recognized for its durability and smooth action, as it is significantly stronger and offers better shock resistance than nylon. This results in a cleaner and crisper typing experience that emphasizes a clacky sound due to the properties of the POK material. Consequently, the tactile feedback upon bottoming out differs, allowing the Caramel Pudding to produce a fuller sound on impact and the Vanilla Ice Cream to provide a much sharper experience with each keystroke.
Despite these differences, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream can still achieve a satisfying typing experience through their unique designs. By harmonizing the sonic qualities from the top and bottom housings, each switch provides a distinctive auditory feedback. Switch characteristics are often experienced differently based on the interaction with the specific materials used, which creates individual preferences among typists. For those seeking a deep, sublime auditory experience, the Caramel Pudding's nylon would be more appealing, while users who favor a high-pitched and clacky sensation might gravitate towards the Vanilla Ice Cream with POK. Thus, while the materials are distinct, the foundational principles of switch design ensure rewarding results for both options.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there are notable distinctions in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a better choice for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. As a result, those using the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would likely find it more comfortable for extended typing sessions. While both switches are designed for a linear feel, the Caramel Pudding's heavier forces may provide a more substantial typing experience, which some typists and gamers might favor. Consequently, the Caramel Pudding is the heavier option, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback and typing endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, the Caramel Pudding features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you prefer a switch that offers a bit more depth and feedback during your key presses, the HMX Caramel Pudding would be the better choice, as it provides a more substantial tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, with its shorter travel distance, could be favored by gamers seeking quicker responses and faster actuation. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Caramel Pudding offers a longer journey, while the Vanilla Ice Cream caters to those who prefer a slightly more responsive touch.
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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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
When it comes to sound, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches exhibit a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, which is favored among typists looking for an engaging auditory experience. The Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky profile, making them ideal for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. Similarly, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches share this characteristic, featuring a high-pitched, marbly resonance that delivers a clean and sharp auditory experience, reminiscent of the sound created by two billiard balls colliding. This shared trait means that users of either switch can expect a lively and distinct sound when typing, although nuances may arise depending on the specific keyboard build and keycap choices that could further shape the overall acoustics.
In terms of feel, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is celebrated for its extraordinarily smooth typing experience, though specific descriptors were not provided. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches take the experience further with their buttery and creamy sensations. The use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing contributes to this remarkably smooth and seamless keystroke, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Users can anticipate a very fluid and satisfying typing motion with the Vanilla Ice Cream switches, which may be more pronounced than the already smooth action of the Caramel Pudding. Although the specifics of the Caramel Pudding’s feel are vague, the expectation of smoothness is a common trait among quality linear switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for both options.
In conclusion, while there are subtle differences in the tactile experience, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches are excellent choices for newcomers seeking a high-pitched, clacky sound profile paired with a smooth typing experience. The Caramel Pudding offers a more straightforward smoothness, while the Vanilla Ice Cream boasts an elevated buttery and creamy sensation. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide satisfying results, making them suitable contenders for building a mechanical keyboard tailored to an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier tactile experience and enjoy a resonant, clacky sound profile that enhances your keystrokes, the Caramel Pudding is your go-to option. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams provides satisfying feedback, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch and appreciate a smooth, buttery feel that mirrors the swiftness of typing, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch may be more suitable for you. With its lighter 48 grams of force, you can glide effortlessly across the keys, complemented by a high-pitched, clean sound that gives your typing an elegant auditory presence. Ultimately, your selection should align with your typing habits and sound preferences, so consider how each switch matches your unique requirements for an optimal keyboard experience.
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