HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exquisitely smooth typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback and comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Dash switch, a refined version of the popular Magnetic Jade, delivers a bright and clacky sound alongside a silky smooth keystroke, providing a tactile sensation that elevates both gaming and typing experiences. While the Caramel Pudding may be ideal for users who prefer linear action without tactile bumps, the WS Dash appeals to those looking for the innovative technology of Hall Effect mechanics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Wuque Studio WS Dash exhibit distinct differences that have significant implications for their auditory characteristics. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft plastic composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a sound that is rounder and more subdued. In contrast, the WS Dash utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, a stiffer material that generates a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. This material's rigidity contributes to a sharper resonance, making it ideal for those who prefer a brighter auditory experience, particularly in environments where RGB lighting is emphasized, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual appeal of such features.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, providing a level of acoustic consistency between them when it comes to the deeper sound profile characteristic of nylon. Regardless of the top housing material, the nylon bottom reinforces this fuller sound, as the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. This shared nylon bottom allows both the Caramel Pudding and WS Dash to deliver that rounder auditory experience when the keys are fully pressed down. Consequently, users can expect a similar tactile feedback from both switches at the moment of actuation, albeit with a difference in the sound profile when releasing the keys.
In essence, while the HMX Caramel Pudding and Wuque Studio WS Dash utilize differing materials for their top housings—nylon for the former and polycarbonate for the latter—their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a cohesive acoustic foundation. Users who prefer the dominant auditory warmth of nylon will find both switches able to deliver satisfying tactile responses, while the variations in the top housing will dictate the overall sound experience when the keys are released. Ultimately, those who opt for either switch will enjoy an engaging typing experience, shaped largely by the contrasting properties of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we can see some notable differences. The Caramel Pudding has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Dash's lighter 30 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the WS Dash is slightly higher at 55 grams, whereas the Caramel Pudding has a bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that while the Caramel Pudding starts with a heavier touch, both switches offer a medium-light feel overall, appealing to users who enjoy a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, for those who value a lighter actuation for longer typing sessions or gaming, the WS Dash is the better option, while the Caramel Pudding provides a tad more resistance at the actuation stage for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, the Caramel Pudding offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Dash features a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that for those who prioritize a more pronounced key press, the Caramel Pudding may provide a more satisfying experience due to its extra millimeter of depth. On the other hand, the WS Dash, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to gamers seeking faster response times and a quicker bottom-out feel. Overall, while the difference is minimal, the choice between these two switches can cater to individual preferences regarding key press depth and responsiveness, with the Caramel Pudding being the longer option and the WS Dash the shorter.
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 known for their resonant, clacky sound signature, which provides a distinctly audible feedback with each keystroke. This sound quality can be particularly satisfying during typing or gaming, adding an element of acoustic engagement. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switches also feature a bright and clacky sound signature, creating an exciting auditory experience. Both switches share this clacky characteristic, but it's important to note that the overall sound produced can vary depending on the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes that are both satisfying and efficient. In parallel, the WS Dash switches offer a silky smooth keystroke as well, promising a similarly pleasurable typing experience. This smoothness in both switches ensures that typists and gamers alike will enjoy a level of comfort that allows for prolonged use without finger fatigue.
In conclusion, both the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch offer a bright, clacky sound signature paired with a remarkably smooth feel, making them excellent choices for those seeking auditory satisfaction and tactile comfort in their typing experience. While they each have unique characteristics, the similarities in their sound and feel will likely lead to comparable satisfaction, depending on personal preference and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switches and the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and how you intend to use your keyboard. If you favor a smooth typing experience with a resonant and clacky sound, the Caramel Pudding switches are an excellent choice, particularly if you enjoy casual typing or gaming sessions where auditory feedback enhances your enjoyment. The medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams also makes them suitable for users who prefer less resistance while typing. On the other hand, if you are looking for a refined and high-tech feel with advanced functionality, the WS Dash switches are the way to go. Their slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams adds a little more feedback, which some users may find satisfying, especially in scenarios requiring precision like competitive gaming or creative work. The combination of a bright and clacky sound signature with a silky keystroke makes the WS Dash stand out for those who appreciate a more sophisticated touch. Ultimately, consider your style of use and auditory preference to select the switch that aligns best with your keyboard experience.
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