HMX Canglan V2 vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, as exemplified by the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. The Canglan V2 is a linear switch celebrated for its thocky sound and smooth, light touch, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who favor a seamless keystroke experience without the tactile bump. Its refined materials and advanced molding techniques lend it a durability that HMX enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a tactile experience that is both engaging and dynamic, combining a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy tactility that many users find satisfying. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy audible feedback during typing, adding an element of excitement to every keystroke. While the choice between a linear and a tactile switch may seem straightforward, it's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
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
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a notable distinction arises in their respective top housings. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon for its top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties that absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro employs polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a sharper, crisper sound profile. This difference is largely attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which promotes a more resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for enhancing RGB lighting effects, an aspect that is visually more engaging when compared to the more opaque nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Canglan V2 and the V3 Cream Blue Pro utilize nylon. This shared choice means that both switches will produce a similar deep and full sound profile when the switch bottoms out, as the properties of nylon absorb sound and deliver a softer auditory impact. The design of the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the tactile feedback and sound upon key activation, and with both switches opting for nylon, users can expect a consistent experience regarding the bottoming-out sensation. Thus, despite the different top housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing unifies the sound characteristics to an extent.
Ultimately, the overall performance and sound profile of each switch will be influenced by the combination of their respective top and bottom housings. While the Canglan V2's nylon top contributes to its deeper sound realization, the polycarbonate top of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers a brighter auditory experience. However, both switches share the nylon bottom housing, ensuring that the qualities associated with this material dominate the bottoming-out sensation in both cases. Consequently, despite the variation in top materials, both switches can achieve complementary sound profiles and tactile experiences that delight typists, with the nylon bottom serving as a consistent foundation.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch with the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a preferable choice for those who enjoy a lighter touch during long typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This provides a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Overall, while both switches are relatively light, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, appealing to those who prioritize ease of use, whereas the Cream Blue Pro may satisfy those looking for a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a deeper feel when pressed, which some users might prefer for the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. For those who enjoy a more responsive keypress, the Akko switch would be the ideal choice, while those who appreciate a more substantial depth might lean towards the Canglan V2. Overall, while both switches offer decent travel distances that are on the shorter side compared to traditional standards, the Canglan V2 stands out with its longer 3.5 mm travel distance compared to the 3.3 mm of the V3 Cream Blue Pro.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 is known for its deep and thocky sound signature, which has been meticulously crafted to provide a rich auditory experience that many enthusiasts crave. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more substantial, muted sound profile while typing. Conversely, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch delivers a poppy and clacky sound that is lively and engaging. This switch is particularly appealing for users who enjoy the audible feedback associated with tactile switches, offering a sound profile that is both distinctive and resonant. Each switch produces a sound that will vary depending on the board and keycaps used, but the characteristics mentioned will generally hold true.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is characterized by a smooth and light experience, making each keypress feel effortless while still providing satisfactory feedback. This allows for an enjoyable typing experience that doesn’t feel overwhelming. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has a more complex tactile experience; it combines medium tactile feedback with a bouncy and responsive nature. The key presses provide a lively sensation along with a polished feel that ensures minimal friction, resulting in a typing experience that is both dynamic and satisfying. For those who prefer a tactile switch, the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers an accentuated, yet not overpowering, feedback, making it a favorite among tactile enthusiasts.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Canglan V2 offers a deep, thocky sound paired with a smooth feel, appealing to users looking for an understated yet satisfying experience. In contrast, the Cream Blue Pro is all about lively audio feedback and engaging tactile sensations, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. Depending on your preferences, either of these switches can offer an enriching typing experience, with the sound and feel clearly aligned with specific user desires.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the typing experience you desire. If you are looking for a smoother, lighter touch that delivers a deep, thocky sound while typing, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for long typing sessions, offering a respite for your fingers with its satisfying, linear feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a switch that provides lively, tactile feedback paired with an engaging, clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be a suitable choice. With its 55-gram bottom-out force, it offers a medium-light sensation that combines a delightful bouncy feel with polished smoothness, making each keystroke feel snappy and responsive. Therefore, consider the Canglan V2 for a muted yet smooth experience or opt for the V3 Cream Blue Pro to elevate your typing with its pronounced tactile sensation and audible feedback. Your ideal switch will reflect your own typing style and the unique characteristics you enjoy most in a mechanical keyboard.
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