HMX Canglan V2 vs. Huano Caramel Latte
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Caramel Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Caramel Latte, both of which are celebrated linear options that cater to different preferences. The Canglan V2 is revered for its thocky sound signature and smooth, light feel, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a deeper acoustic experience paired with a bouncy, silky touch as they type. On the other hand, the Huano Caramel Latte stands out with its bright, clacky sound profile and a medium-weight bottom-out force of 50g, offering a lively, responsive typing experience that many users enjoy. While both switches deliver an engaging tactile sensation, they do so in markedly different ways—with the Canglan V2 focusing on that satisfying low-pitch thock, and the Caramel Latte emphasizing a sharper, high-pitch resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Caramel Latte keyboards exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which can significantly influence the typing experience. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon for its top housing, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's relatively softer properties, which absorb more sound and provide a duller, rounder acoustic output. In contrast, the Caramel Latte employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing, a material renowned for its superior smoothness and enhanced durability. The POK's higher coefficient of friction compared to nylon results in a smoother keypress, while also contributing to a higher-pitched and clackier sound during typing due to its inherent hardness.
When considering the bottom housing, both the Canglan V2 and the Caramel Latte utilize nylon, which creates the same impact on the bottom-out feel and sound. In this regard, both keyboards produce a deeper and fuller acoustic experience upon key activation, as nylon's properties significantly absorb sound. This consistency across the bottom housing means both switches will perform similarly in terms of sound and tactile feedback when pressed down. This shared characteristic enhances the experience of both keyboards, creating a familiar feel for users accustomed to the sound profile associated with nylon switches.
In summary, while the Canglan V2 and Caramel Latte differ in their top housing materials—nylon versus POK—their bottom housing is consistently nylon, providing a united acoustic experience during keypresses. Users may find that while the typing sound profile differs when letting go of the keys, the tactile feedback remains cohesive when pressing down, thanks to the shared nylon bottom. Thus, despite the contrasting materials, the similar bottom housing ensures a comparable overall experience in terms of sound and feel, allowing for enjoyment of both keyboards' distinctive qualities.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to different user preferences. The Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Caramel Latte has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, designating it as a medium-light switch. This increased resistance offers a firmer typing feel, which some users may prefer for a substantial experience. Consequently, the Canglan V2 can be considered the lighter switch overall, while the Caramel Latte is the heavier option, providing a choice depending on the user’s desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Caramel Latte switch offers a bit more depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key feel. On the other hand, the Canglan V2's shorter travel distance makes it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. While the difference between the two switches is minimal, it highlights the choice users must make between responsiveness and key feel—those who favor a shorter travel might lean toward the Canglan V2, whereas those who appreciate a little more depth might opt for the Caramel Latte. Both switches, however, are relatively close in travel distance, allowing for a similar overall experience depending on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Huano Caramel Latte has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Latte for $2.75.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Canglan V2 and Huano Caramel Latte linear switches, a distinct difference emerges. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature that offers a low-pitched thud, creating a rich, satisfying auditory experience, reminiscent of a soft knock. This quality makes it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a deeper, more bass-heavy sound. In contrast, the Caramel Latte produces a bright, clacky sound characterized by high-pitched tones and a sharp, crisp auditory response. This clackiness gives it a snappier, more percussive quality that stands in stark contrast to the Canglan V2’s warm thock. Therefore, if you prefer a deeper sound, the Canglan V2 would be the suitable option, while those who enjoy a lighter, crisper keystroke sound may lean toward the Caramel Latte.
In terms of feel, both switches share a silky typing experience that minimizes resistance upon pressing and releasing keys, leading to a seamless and enjoyable interaction. However, the Canglan V2 further elevates the experience with its additional qualities—being feathery and bouncy. This means it requires less effort to actuate, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions, while the bouncy nature provides a pleasurable spring-back sensation that enhances the overall tactile experience. The Caramel Latte, while sleek and smooth, doesn't quite match the dynamic feel of the Canglan V2, lacking the bounce that can make typing more engaging.
In conclusion, the HMX Canglan V2 and Huano Caramel Latte switches deliver unique experiences in both sound and feel. The Canglan V2 stands out with its thocky sound, silky, feathery, and bouncy characteristics, making it ideal for users who prioritize deeper auditory feedback and a lively typing sensation. On the other hand, the Caramel Latte offers a bright, clacky sound along with its own silky smoothness, making it a great choice for those who favor a lighter and crisper auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on which qualities resonate most with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Huano Caramel Latte linear switch should be guided by your preferences for sound, feel, and the force required to bottom out the switches. If you favor a lighter touch with a deep, thocky sound and a smooth, feathery feel—ideal for extended typing sessions or when you desire a quieter ambiance—the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a bass-heavy typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force paired with a bright, clacky sound that brings a more energetic feel to your typing, the Caramel Latte is worth considering. Its clacky profile offers a satisfying auditory response, making it a fantastic option for those who want each keystroke to feel distinctly sharp and percussive. In the end, the decision boils down to whether you prioritize a softer, more muted typing experience or a lively and pronounced one, ensuring that you select the switch that aligns best with your individual typing style and environmental preferences.
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