Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Canglan V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Canglan V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and HMX Canglan V2 both appeal to enthusiasts seeking a linear experience, yet they cater to different preferences with their unique characteristics. The Dareu Aqua is recognized for its ultra-light 37g actuation force, making it extremely easy to press, and is celebrated for its chirpy and clacky sound signature. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more playful typing experience with less resistance. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 offers a contrast with its deeper, thocky sound that appeals to users looking for a richer auditory experience. Its carefully crafted materials and improved molding yield a silky and bouncy feel, ideal for those who appreciate a bit more heft in their keystrokes. Both switches are feathery in touch, yet their sound profiles and actuation forces create distinct typing dynamics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and HMX Canglan V2 switches present an interesting comparison in terms of their housing materials, providing different auditory and tactile experiences when typing. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer characteristics that lend a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This choice of material contributes to a clearer and crisper auditory experience, accentuating the keys' sound when released. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it a favored option for RGB lighting displays, as it enhances the visual aesthetic of illuminated keyboards. In contrast, the Canglan V2 incorporates a nylon top housing, a material recognized for its softer and more absorbent qualities. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, making it less piercing than the Aqua’s top housing, ultimately providing a more muted typing experience, particularly during key releases.
Examining the bottom housings, both the Aqua and Canglan V2 utilize nylon, a classic material that is consistent across multiple switch designs due to its sound-dampening properties. This means that in both switches, the bottom housing promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will elicit a richer auditory response when the keys bottom out. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in grounding the sound of both switches and providing a more robust tactile feedback, making this component a unifying factor in their overall design.
In essence, while the Dareu Aqua and HMX Canglan V2 vary in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Aqua and nylon for the Canglan V2—their shared nylon bottom housing creates a bridge between their sound profiles. Users can expect a noticeable difference in the quality of sound produced when keys are released due to the polycarbonate's sharper resonance versus the nylon's muted response. However, the bottom-out experience in both switches will be notably similar, characterized by the fullness and depth that nylon inherently provides. Therefore, whether one is looking for a brighter sound with the Aqua or a smoother, more subdued sound with the Canglan V2, it is important to consider the specific roles played by each housing material in shaping their distinct auditory characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom-out forces of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Aqua switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which makes it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Canglan V2 has a heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 48 grams. This heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience, catering to those who seek a firmer push feel. While the bottom out force for the Aqua switch remains unknown, its absence of a specified bottom-out measurement means it may not provide the same level of tactile feedback as the Canglan V2. Overall, the Dareu Aqua is the lighter option, while the HMX Canglan V2 is the heavier switch, giving users distinct choices based on their typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, it's evident that they cater to different preferences. The Aqua features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a deeper, more substantial feel when pressed. This can be especially enjoyable for users who favor a hearty typing experience. In contrast, the Canglan V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it more responsive and conducive to faster actions, particularly appealing for gamers who prioritize quick response times. Therefore, if you prefer a deeper, more tactile experience, the Dareu Aqua is the better choice, while the HMX Canglan V2 is suited for those who value speed and rapid key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The HMX Canglan V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Canglan V2 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 Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a distinctive acoustic profile characterized by a chirpy and clacky nature. This sound signature produces a bright, crisp, and slightly squeaky tone when activated, creating a unique auditory experience that stands out among linear switches. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 produces a thocky and low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, evoking a sensation reminiscent of a soft "thud" or "knock." This type of sound tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow, appealing to those who prefer a smoother auditory feedback while typing. As sound quality can vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, enthusiasts may find their experience with either switch influenced by their specific setup.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua switch is designed to be exceptionally easy to press, requiring merely 37g of actuation force, which makes it ideal for long typing sessions as it reduces finger fatigue. Its feathery touch allows for effortless and comfortable key presses. Conversely, the Canglan V2 offers a silky feel with minimal resistance and seamlessly smooth key presses. It also shares the feathery quality, demanding little exertion from the fingers. Furthermore, the Canglan V2 has a bouncy characteristic that provides a spring-like feedback, which can enhance the overall typing experience by adding a lively sensation during use.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switches exhibit distinct sound profiles—with the Aqua being chirpy and clacky and the Canglan V2 delivering a deep thock—they both excel in providing a light and comfortable typing experience. The Aqua’s easy-to-press and feathery feel closely resembles the silky and feathery sensation of the Canglan V2, though the latter's bouncy trait adds a unique element to its tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, but the choice may depend on personal preference regarding sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, consider your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound signature, and overall typing feel. If you favor a super light touch and enjoy a keyboard that produces a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suitable for those who type rapidly or engage in extended gaming sessions where minimal effort is beneficial; its easy-to-press and feathery characteristics will reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, if you appreciate a deeper, more satisfying sound and a slightly firmer typing experience, the HMX Canglan V2 would be the better option. Its thocky and low-pitched sound signature, combined with silky and bouncy feedback, offers a more engaging typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style, the sonic atmosphere you prefer, and how much feedback you desire from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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