KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX Canglan V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Canglan V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the mechanical keyboard experience, the choice of switch can greatly influence not just performance but also overall enjoyment. The KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its perfectly balanced tactile response, providing a satisfying "bump" that enhances typing accuracy without being overly pronounced. This makes it an appealing option for those who prefer a clear actuation feel but aren’t keen on the harshness sometimes associated with tactile switches. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 stands out as a linear switch that promises a smooth and silent typing experience, characterized by its deep sound signature and effortlessly light feel. This switch, favored by enthusiasts for its refined materials and molding techniques, offers a seamless typing experience ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize fluid keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences—one leans towards tactile precision, while the other offers a pure linear escape. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Canglan V2, one can observe a notable distinction in their top housing compositions, which significantly affects their sound profiles. The Ash Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material renowned for its stiffness that lends a sharper, more crisper sound when typing. This characteristic allows the Ash Gray to produce a higher-pitched acoustic signature, particularly enhancing the clarity when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. Conversely, the Canglan V2 opts for a nylon top housing, which yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributable to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. Thus, while the Ash Gray excels in delivering a bright and resonant audio experience, the Canglan V2 offers a more muted, rounded sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches feature nylon, contributing to a unified characteristic in their overall auditory experience. The nylon composition of the Ash Gray's bottom housing mirrors that of the Canglan V2, creating a deeper, fuller sound through its ability to absorb sound effectively. This shared material likely results in a similar bottom-out sound and typing feel across both switches, despite the variance in their top housing. Therefore, while the top housings of the Ash Gray and Canglan V2 diverge in material and resultant acoustic signature, the nylon bottom housing creates a common ground that contributes to the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials in each switch illustrates how individual components play a significant role in the final acoustics and feel. The distinct polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray provides a brighter sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the Canglan V2 imparts a more subdued tone. However, because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a consistent bottom-out experience that emphasizes the desirable characteristics of this classic switch material. Thus, despite their variances, the combination of distinct top housings with a shared bottom housing allows for a range of auditory experiences depending on user preference.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX Canglan V2 features a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams but a lower bottom out force of 48 grams, classifying it as a light switch. This means that while the Canglan V2 requires a bit more force to register a keystroke, it generally becomes easier to bottom out than the Ash Gray, which has a heavier bottom out feel. Consequently, the Ash Gray switch is considered the heavier option overall, while the Canglan V2 is the lighter choice. Users seeking a switch that provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may prefer the KTT Ash Gray, whereas those who favor a lighter touch for extended use might find the HMX Canglan V2 more appealing.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch both share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning users will experience identical feedback when pressing down on either switch. This equivalence in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a similar typing experience, making them suitable for users who appreciate a consistent feel across different types of keyboards. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect the same reach from top to bottom with each keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch produces a sound profile that can be characterized as neutral. This means it has a moderate level of noise, making it versatile for various environments—suitable for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. This neutrality ensures that whether you're using the keyboard in a quiet home office or a bustling workspace, the sound won’t be disruptive. The characteristics of other components, such as the keyboard's material and the choice of keycaps, can influence the overall auditory experience, but overall, the Ash Gray stands as a balanced option for users seeking a harmonious sound.
On the other hand, while the HMX Canglan V2's sound profile isn't explicitly detailed, it is positioned as a "thocky linear delight." This typically implies a deeper and more satisfying sound signature due to its construction and material composition. The "thock" sound is generally appreciated by enthusiasts for its full-bodied richness, contrasting with the Ash Gray's neutral sound. The auditory experience provided by the Canglan V2 is often preferred by those who enjoy auditory feedback that feels gratifying yet does not overpower the typing experience.
When assessing the feel of these switches, the Ash Gray excels with its easy-to-press mechanism that requires minimal force for activation, resulting in a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience. Its mild tactile response provides approachable qualities, making it accessible for most typists and suitable for long sessions without strain. The specifics regarding the feel of the Canglan V2 remain unknown, but the anticipated smoothness suggests a focus on effortless keystrokes akin to other linear switches, which might still provide satisfying engagement but could lack the tactile feedback that Ash Gray users appreciate.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound and a mild yet easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a balanced typing experience. The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, although lacking detailed descriptions in some areas, promises a deeper sound with a smooth and soft actuation that caters to enthusiasts seeking a richer auditory engagement. Depending on your typing preferences and environment, both switches cater to different needs, ensuring that users can find a satisfying experience whether they prioritize sound or the tactile feel of their keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a typing experience that combines a light touch with a gratifying tactile response, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams ensures a comfortable feel, particularly for prolonged typing sessions, without overwhelming you with feedback. This switch is also neutral in sound, making it versatile enough for both home and office environments, accommodating a variety of users—whether you are just starting out or have more experience. Alternatively, if you crave a smoother feel and a satisfying, deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is the way to go. With its light 48-gram actuation force, it allows for effortless key presses, perfect for gamers or fast typists who demand speed and silence while maintaining quality acoustics. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how you prioritize tactile feedback versus a smooth, linear experience, as well as your typical typing context. By understanding these nuances, you can choose the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience the most.
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