TTC Brother vs. HMX Canglan V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX Canglan V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence both your typing experience and gaming performance. The TTC Brother, a light and clicky switch, is a favorite among enthusiasts for its 37g actuation force, providing a breezy tactile experience that combines satisfying auditory feedback with a well-defined tactile bump. This makes it a fantastic option for those who enjoy the classic, crunchy sound synonymous with clicky switches, delivering clear and precise keystrokes without being overly burdensome. In contrast, the HMX Canglan V2 offers a smooth and thocky linear experience, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience without the distinct tactile bump. With its deep sound signature and lightweight feel, the Canglan V2 caters to those seeking an unobtrusive yet enjoyable keystroke. While the Brother excels in providing auditory bliss and tactile feedback, the Canglan V2 is perfect for users who prioritize smoothness and a clean keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the HMX Canglan V2, a notable contrast arises in their top housing compositions. The TTC Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper and more crystalline sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity, making it a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant auditory experience, particularly with RGB lighting. Conversely, the HMX Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer composition. Nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller tone that results in a rounder sound profile. Thus, while the Brother's top housing leans towards a brighter sound, the Canglan V2 offers a warmer and more subdued auditory experience.
On the other hand, when focusing on the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and HMX Canglan V2 utilize nylon for their materials. This shared component results in a commonality where both switches deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile. The properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, absorb sound more effectively, which dampens the noise and produces a more pleasant typing experience. As the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, both models ensure a consistent auditory quality that is similar despite the differences in their top housing materials. This unification in the bottom housing can lead to comparable final sound characteristics when the switch is fully pressed down.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials for the top section of the switches create distinct sound profiles, while the use of nylon for the bottom housing preserves a level of similarity between the two products. The TTC Brother's polycarbonate top offers a bright, resonant experience that shines with RGB lighting, aligning with preferences for clarity and vibrancy. The HMX Canglan V2, with its nylon top, favors a fuller, rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a warmer, more muted experience. Both designs, however, benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which helps unify the overall sound profile and functionality, ensuring that they deliver satisfactory results for different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out specifications. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which makes it easier to press and potentially better suited for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming use. In contrast, the Canglan V2 features a heavier actuation force of 42 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Moreover, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unspecified, while the Canglan V2 has a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating that it requires a firmer push to reach the bottom of the keypress. This difference in bottoming out may contribute to a more tactile experience with the Canglan V2 compared to the Brother switch. Overall, those who favor lighter switches for comfort may gravitate towards the TTC Brother, whereas typists seeking a stronger resistance will likely prefer the HMX Canglan V2.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This equal distance means that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Since both switches have identical travel distances, they will deliver comparable results in terms of key actuation and typing experience, making them interchangeable options for those seeking a switch with a consistent and familiar travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound profile, the TTC Brother clicky switch has a distinctive crunchy auditory signature that resonates deeply with fans of clicky switches. This sound has been compared to the experience of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, delivering an enjoyable auditory feedback with every keystroke. The sound profile is not just present; it is clear and precise, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Canglan V2 switch produces a deep, thocky sound that enthusiasts have been craving. While the specifics of its sound are less detailed, it is designed to provide a satisfying acoustic experience that can complement the smooth nature of the switch. Both sound profiles cater to different preferences—crisp and clear versus deep and resonant—but they stand out in their own right.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother switch shines with its easy-to-press tactile design, characterized by a lightweight actuation force of just 37g. This not only makes it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions but also offers a distinct tactile bump that is present yet not overwhelming. The stepped tactile feedback allows for a clear differentiation between pre-travel and post-travel, enhancing the typing experience without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its smooth and light feel, though specifics about its tactile feedback remain unknown. The combination of its materials and mold techniques suggests a refined typing experience that might lack the tactile feedback of the Brother but excels in smoothness.
In conclusion, choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch ultimately depends on personal preference in sound and feel. The Brother's crunchy sound and tactile distinction offer a lively typing experience that many clicky switch fans adore, while the Canglan V2’s thocky sound and smooth operation cater to those who prefer a more seamless keystroke. Each switch has its unique qualities, catering to different typing styles and preferences; thus, whether one seeks auditory satisfaction or a smooth key press, there are compelling options available in both switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch depends largely on your typing preferences and intended use. If you are someone who enjoys the distinct auditory feedback and tactile sensation that comes with clicky switches, the Brother is the ideal option for you. Its lightweight actuation and satisfying click sound provide an engaging experience, making it great for both typing and gaming, especially if you enjoy the rhythmic sounds of your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quieter experience, especially for tasks requiring long periods of typing or if you are in shared spaces, you’ll find the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch more appealing. With its light touch and deep sound signature, it offers a soothing typing experience without the distraction of clicks, ensuring that your keyboarding remains blissfully serene. Ultimately, choose the Brother when you crave feedback and an interactive feel, while the Canglan V2 is for those who seek refined smoothness and tranquility in their keystrokes.
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