HMX Canglan V2 vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and HMX Cheese both excel as linear options, yet they cater to different preferences among enthusiasts. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its rich, thocky sound and pleasantly light feel, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a deeper acoustic signature while maintaining a smooth typing experience. Its expertly engineered materials and molding techniques result in a tactile satisfaction that many HMX lovers crave. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switches prioritize ultra-light performance and offer a distinctively clacky, poppy sound that appeals to those who favor a more crispy feedback with every keystroke. As a favorite among users who enjoy a rapid, effortless typing style, the Cheese switches can be particularly alluring for gamers and fast typists alike. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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 HMX Cheese both feature nylon as their primary housing material, which establishes a strong common ground between them. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in these switches ensures that they deliver a similar auditory experience. This material's inherent softness allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that characterizes the typing experience. As a result, users can expect a relatively muted and rounded sound when using either switch, making them suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a subtle typing noise.
Both switches exhibit the same properties due to their identical construction in terms of housing material. Since both the Canglan V2 and Cheese utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the qualities that contribute to their sound profiles are harmoniously integrated across the switches. The overall typing experience is bolstered by the fact that both switches will produce a similar tactile feedback and sound signature when bottoming out or releasing keys. This consistency in materials ensures that users will likely enjoy comparable performance, regardless of which switch they choose between the two models.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housings, the split between the top and bottom housings can influence the final sound and feel during use. The bottom housing's characteristics more significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more to the sound upon release. However, since both switches share the same nylon composition, the differences in performance will be minimal. Ultimately, users can feel confident that they will achieve a similarly satisfying typing experience with either the HMX Canglan V2 or the HMX Cheese, as the qualities of the nylon material provide an effective and pleasant acoustic profile regardless of the switch selected.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, both are characterized by their relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Canglan V2 features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Cheese switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. This means that although both switches are classified as light, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option overall. Users who prefer a lighter switch may find the Canglan V2 more comfortable for prolonged use, whereas those who appreciate a marginally firmer feel might lean towards the Cheese. Ultimately, both switches offer similar experiences in terms of actuation and bottoming out forces since they are both on the lighter side of the spectrum, catering to various preferences in user experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch both exhibit an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on these switches. This equal travel distance means that the feel and responsiveness when engaging either switch will be virtually the same, providing a uniform typing experience across both options. Since both switches share this characteristic, enthusiasts can expect consistent feedback and performance, making either choice suitable based on personal preference for other factors such as actuation force or sound profiles.
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 HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 HMX Canglan V2 switch offers a deep and thocky sound signature that many enthusiasts find gratifying. This rich auditory experience is a result of its specially crafted materials and improved molding techniques, which enhance the overall acoustics of the switch. In contrast, the HMX Cheese switch presents a light, clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that is distinctly vibrant and engaging. It's designed to provide a more lively auditory feedback that many users enjoy. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that could appeal to different preferences, while the actual sound experience will also vary based on the choice of keyboard board and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is characterized by its smooth and light action, which allows for an enjoyable typing experience. The switch glides effortlessly with minimal resistance, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter touch. In comparison, the Cheese switch is described as ultra-light, providing a sensation of almost effortless keystrokes. The fluidity and lack of tactile bump contribute to a typing experience that feels exceptionally swift and seamless. While both switches promise a smooth feel, the Canglan V2 leans towards providing a deeper engagement, whereas the Cheese focuses on unprecedented lightness.
In conclusion, the HMX Canglan V2 and HMX Cheese switches each deliver a unique auditory and tactile experience that can cater to different typing styles and preferences. The Canglan V2 stands out with its thocky sound and smooth feel, making it perfect for users who appreciate a richer auditory engagement. On the other hand, the Cheese switch offers an ultra-light and crisp experience that emphasizes speed and liveliness, ideal for those who prefer a more dynamic feedback while typing. Ultimately, both switches will provide satisfying results, but your choice between them will depend on whether you lean towards deeper sounds and smooth action or a lighter touch coupled with a lively auditory response.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you appreciate a deeper sound profile along with a smooth, light typing experience, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option. Its thocky sound signature and meticulously crafted materials provide a satisfying tactile experience, making it particularly enjoyable for those who prefer a keyboard with a bit of character. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more crisp and poppy audio feedback coupled with unparalleled smoothness, then the Cheese is likely to be your go-to switch. Its ultra-light design not only enhances a breezy typing experience but also produces a delightful clacky sound that makes every keystroke feel engaging. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and audio preferences when making your decision; both offer unique benefits that cater to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community.
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