HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that immediately stand out are the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its resonant, clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth typing feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback along with tactile comfort. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is designed for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience, featuring an innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure that ensures unmatched smoothness and stability while significantly reducing noise. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback, allowing users to choose based on their individual typing habits and environments. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches, the most notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to generate a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer properties of polycarbonate enhance the clarity and resonance of the keystrokes, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting applications, given its aesthetic translucency. This fundamental difference in materials directly influences the overall acoustic character of each switch during use.
Despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which plays a crucial role in the sound and feel when typing. The nylon bottom housing for both the Caramel Pudding and the Zero Degree 0° contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile, as it effectively absorbs sound and dampens noise. This commonality ensures that regardless of the differences in the top housings, the bottom-out sound produced by both switches will share a similar tonal quality of softness and depth. Users can expect a consistent tactile feedback and auditory experience when bottoming out, as both switches deliver this aspect through their nylon bottom housings.
Ultimately, the synergy between the unique top housings and the shared nylon bottom housing results in distinct characteristics for each switch while also providing familiar auditory feedback. The Caramel Pudding leans toward a more muted and smooth keystroke experience due to its nylon top, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a more pronounced and lively sound profile with its polycarbonate top. However, because both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, users will find that the bottoming-out experience remains comparable, ensuring that each switch still retains a certain level of uniformity in tactile response, despite their differing upper housing materials and resultant sound profiles. This blend of materials showcases the complex interplay between the top and bottom housing materials, emphasizing how each affects not just sound, but overall user experience.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter key press, facilitating longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. However, the two switches diverge when it comes to their bottom out forces. The Caramel Pudding switch features a bottom out force of 52 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel during typing and can be advantageous for those who prefer a firmer key response. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown, leaving its performance in this area less defined. Consequently, while both switches offer a similar actuation force, the Caramel Pudding switch may be viewed as the heavier option due to its bottom out force, appealing to users seeking a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch are both 3.6 mm, resulting in identical distances experienced when pressing down on the keys. This means users can expect a similar tactile experience and key responsiveness with both switches, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a consistent key feel. Therefore, neither switch is shorter or longer; they offer the same travel distance, ensuring a comparable performance in terms of travel distance during use.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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 linear switch is characterized by its resonant and clacky sound signature, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback that can make typing feel more engaging. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch emphasizes silence through its innovative self-padding design, which absorbs sound, resulting in a quieter typing experience. While the Caramel Pudding offers a distinct acoustic presence, the Zero Degree’s focus on noise reduction allows for discreet use, making it suitable for quieter environments. It’s worth noting that the actual sound produced will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Caramel Pudding switch is recognized for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, which can contribute to a faster and more enjoyable tactile interaction. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch excel in providing an exceptionally soft and elastic feel, enhanced by its dual-rail structure which promotes stability and smooth actuation. While both switches offer smoothness, the Caramel Pudding may provide a more traditional linear feel, whereas the Zero Degree enhances the overall typing comfort by mitigating the sensation of bottoming out, thanks to its self-padding mechanism.
In conclusion, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch delivers a satisfying clacky sound along with a highly smooth actuation, making it suitable for users who appreciate audible feedback. Meanwhile, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is designed for those prioritizing a quieter yet equally smooth and comfortable typing experience through its innovative design. Depending on individual preferences regarding acoustics and tactile sensations, both switches will provide enjoyable typing experiences, albeit with distinctly different sound profiles and nuances in feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience, with a pronounced clacky sound and a medium-light feel at 52 grams, then the Caramel Pudding is the ideal switch for you. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate auditory feedback and prefer a more dynamic response while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is your go-to option. With its innovative design that effectively absorbs sound and a soft, elastic feel, this switch excels in environments where quiet operation is crucial, such as in shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Ultimately, assess your typing style, sound preferences, and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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