Akko Botany vs. HMX Canglan V2

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that showcase unique characteristics and performance profiles. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp and lively clacky sound, which offers an auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience and seek to enhance the tactile sensation of their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 emerges as a thocky linear delight, expertly designed for users desiring a deep sound signature coupled with a smooth and light feel. Its improved materials and molding techniques provide a premium typing experience that HMX enthusiasts have long awaited. While both switches fall under the linear category, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel, making them appealing for varied typing styles and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Botany and the HMX Canglan V2 both utilize nylon as their housing material, featuring it in the top and bottom housings of their respective switches. Nylon is renowned in the keyboard community for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows both switches to elicit a sound that is notably rounder and duller, creating an auditory experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. The choice of nylon for both the Botany and the Canglan V2 not only reinforces a commitment to sound quality but also illustrates how these models embrace classic materials that have long been associated with a premium typing experience.

Both switches exhibit similar performance traits owing to their uniform housing materials, particularly in terms of the sound produced during both key presses and releases. The impact of the nylon top and bottom housings on sound is significant, with the softer material absorbing sound waves effectively. When keys are pressed down, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more to the acoustic profile upon releasing the key. Because both the Botany and Canglan V2 share identical housing materials, users can expect a comparable sound signature, enhancing their typing experience regardless of the switch they choose.

Despite their identical use of nylon in housing materials, end users may still notice nuances in feel and sound based on other factors such as switch design, actuation force, or lubrication techniques. If, hypothetically, the top and bottom housings were different in one switch but not the other, the resultant sound profile and typing feel would be dictated by the combination of housing materials, which ultimately impacts the switch's acoustic characteristics. In practice, as both the Botany and Canglan V2 rely on nylon in their entire switch structure, users can anticipate a consistent and engaging auditory experience that showcases the strengths of this widely favored material.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, both options are classified as lightweight, but they do differ in their specifications. The Botany switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Canglan V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Consequently, the Botany switch is the lighter of the two, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, such as during extended work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Canglan V2, with its heavier force requirements, provides a more substantial feel that some typists may prefer for a more tactile experience. Since both switches fall under the lightweight category, users can expect a relatively similar typing experience, but the differences in actuation and bottom out forces might sway individual preferences based on their typing style and comfort.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Canglan V2 features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Botany switch allows for a deeper press, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Canglan V2’s shorter travel distance may cater to those seeking quicker response times, which is particularly advantageous for gamers. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch that offers a more pronounced feel, the Akko Botany is the better choice, while the HMX Canglan V2 is ideal for those who favor a more rapid actuation with its shorter range.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany switch stands out for its crisp, lively clacky tone that resonates with a vibrant personality, making it particularly satisfying for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This characterizes it as a lively switch, ideal for those who enjoy a more expressive sound profile in their mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the HMX Canglan V2 has a deeper, thocky sound signature that provides a more subdued but satisfying auditory experience. This rich sound is attributed to the switch's refined material selection and improved molding techniques, resulting in a unique audio character that is both engaging and pleasant for users seeking a different sound quality.

Regarding feel, the Botany switch offers a lively typing experience that encourages an energetic touch. It's designed to produce a light and responsive sensation that can keep up with faster typing speeds, appealing particularly to users who type with rhythm and speed. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 is praised for its smooth, light feel, which complements its thocky sound. This combination creates an enjoyable typing experience that eases the effort of pressing down on the keys while maintaining a satisfying tactile response.

In conclusion, both the Akko Botany and HMX Canglan V2 linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Botany is vibrant and lively in sound and feel, perfect for users who prioritize a dynamic typing environment. In contrast, the Canglan V2 offers a deeper, thocky sound paired with an exceptionally smooth tactile response, ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a refined and satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a bright and clacky character or a deep and thocky experience, each providing an enjoyable typing journey.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel in your typing experience. If you enjoy a light, crisp, and lively sound profile, the Botany switch with its bottom out force of 45 grams is likely the better option for you. This switch caters well to users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, which can enhance the overall enjoyment of your mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer deeper, more thocky sounds coupled with a solid typing feel, the HMX Canglan V2 might be your go-to choice. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 48 grams, it provides a satisfying tactile experience and a rich sound signature that many HMX enthusiasts cherish. Ultimately, the decision boils down to whether you prioritize a lively and bright sound or a deeper, more resonant auditory feedback, along with how the varying bottom-out forces align with your typing style and comfort.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more