HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Weightlessness offer two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Caramel Pudding switches are linear, celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer a quiet, uninterrupted keystroke while enjoying a satisfying acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches are tactile, featuring a subtle to moderate tactile bump that enhances the typing experience without overwhelming the user. Their well-balanced sound profile complements the tactile feedback, making them an attractive option for typists who appreciate a little resistance and auditory confirmation with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feedback, and typing style; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Weightlessness switches are both constructed using nylon for their top and bottom housings, which positions them similarly in terms of their auditory and tactile performance. Nylon is revered as a classic material for switch housings, known for its softer composition compared to harder plastics like ABS or polycarbonate. This softness allows both switches to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Consequently, users can expect a similar sound experience while using either switch, highlighting the consistent audio quality that nylon brings to the table.
Moreover, since both the Caramel Pudding and Weightlessness switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, the tactile and auditory properties are likely to be matched throughout the entire switch. The nylon construction reduces the harshness often associated with harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound, particularly during both the keypress and the release. Typing on either switch would evoke a sense of comfort and satisfaction, as the material's characteristics would remain consistent across the board, allowing users to enjoy similar sensations regardless of their choice.
In terms of performance differentiation, the primary aspect to consider lies in the effect of the individual housings. While both switches offer a uniform nylon experience, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes predominantly during the release phase. Users can expect both switches to produce comparable results in tactile feedback and sound profile, despite minor variations that may arise from design nuances. Ultimately, the consistent use of nylon in both switches ensures that typists will delight in a quality sound experience and buttery smooth keystrokes, regardless of the switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Caramel Pudding switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a medium-light option, while the Weightlessness switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This indicates that users may find the Caramel Pudding to be more comfortable for extended typing sessions, appealing to those who prefer a lighter feel. In terms of bottom out forces, the Caramel Pudding has a value of 52 grams, providing a more pronounced feedback when pressing down fully. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch is unknown, leaving a gap in the comparative analysis. Overall, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, while the Gateron Weightlessness, with its higher actuation force, cater to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Caramel Pudding featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Weightlessness has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you favor a switch that registers a deeper press, the Caramel Pudding would be the better choice, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, though some might perceive the experience as somewhat abrupt. Ultimately, the slight difference in travel distance could influence your preference based on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.
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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 switches are renowned for their resonant, clacky sound signature, which provides a lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. This characteristic makes them particularly satisfying for users who enjoy the acoustic aspect of typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switches feature a balanced sound profile that complements their tactile characteristics, producing a more subtle auditory experience. While both switches provide engaging sounds, the Caramel Pudding's clacky nature is markedly more pronounced, making it ideal for those who prefer a louder, more gratifying click when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, delivering seamless key presses that enhance comfort during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness switches offer a subtle to moderate tactile feel, which provides a pleasant bump that can help convey actuation without being overly distracting. The Caramel Pudding's smoothness allows for quick and effortless typing, while the tactile feedback from the Weightlessness gives users a gentle reminder of their keystrokes, making each switch unique in its tactile expression.
Overall, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Caramel Pudding excels with its high-pitched, resonant sound and smooth keystrokes, ideal for users who enjoy an audible typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness delivers a balanced sound with a tactile bump, perfect for those who appreciate a moderate tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preference, you can choose either switch for a unique typing experience, knowing they each offer distinct qualities that can cater to different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, your personal preferences for feel and sound should guide your choice. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience with a resonant, clacky sound signature that emphasizes an easy keystroke, the Caramel Pudding might be your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams makes it inviting for long typing sessions and rapid key presses, making it ideal for gamers and typists alike who seek a more fluid and joyful soundscape. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile experience that provides subtle feedback with each keystroke, the Gateron Weightlessness switch would likely suit you better. Its balanced sound profile and subtle tactile feel make it perfect for those who type with an intention to maintain precision and control without overwhelming auditory distractions. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize smoothness and sound or tactility and feedback, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience perfectly matches your typing style and activities.
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