HMX Canglan V2 vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves captivated by the unique characteristics of different options. Two notable contenders are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, both linear switches yet offering distinctly different experiences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound and smooth, light touch, appealing to those who appreciate a deeper auditory experience and a silky feel when typing. Its carefully crafted materials and advanced molding techniques lend it a bouncy quality that many keyboard aficionados yearn for. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro shines as a budget-friendly alternative, delivering a poppy sound and a polished, creamy tactile experience that keeps the typing experience lively and engaging. While the Canglan V2 might be the choice for those prioritizing a low-pitched auditory signature and a luxurious feel, the Akko V3 appeals to users looking for a responsive and energetic typing experience without breaking the bank. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Yellow Pro, notable differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and less resonant acoustic experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The clarity of the sound produced by polycarbonate is further enhanced by its translucency, making it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, where aesthetic appeal also plays a crucial role.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in the material used for their bottom housings, which is nylon in both cases. This consistency results in a similar sound quality during key presses, as the nylon bottom housing conveys a deeper, rounder sound profile regardless of the distinct top housing materials. The nylon's ability to absorb sound ensures that both switches will offer a similar tactile experience when the key bottoms out. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing allows for continuity in performance, ensuring that users experience a consistent feel when striking the keys.
To summarize, the primary differences between the HMX Canglan V2 and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro lie in their top housings, which significantly influence the sound profile during key release. The nylon top housing of the Canglan V2 provides a rich and muted tone, contrasting sharply with the clearer and sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. However, both share the nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper sound quality when bottoming out, ensuring that, while the sound profiles may differ on release, they maintain a comparable auditory experience on the initial press. Thus, while the aesthetic and sonic outcomes during key releases can vary greatly, similarities in underlying materials contribute to a cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who desire a more substantial feedback from their keystrokes during both typing and gaming. This gap in force specifications indicates that while both switches fulfill typing needs, they cater to different preferences: the Canglan V2 is ideal for lighter, longer sessions, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a firmer push for a more engaged feel. Ultimately, if users are looking for a lighter option, the Canglan V2 would be their choice, whereas those who appreciate a heavier switch should consider the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, the two options present some interesting contrasts. The Canglan V2 boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference in distance can influence user preference, as gamers typically favor the quicker response times associated with shorter travel distances, making the V3 Cream Yellow Pro potentially more appealing for fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Canglan V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Therefore, while both switches cater to different user preferences, the Canglan V2 is the longer option, and the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers the shorter travel distance, facilitating a choice based on the desired typing and gaming experience.
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 Yellow 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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its low-pitched, thocky acoustics that provide a pleasingly deep auditory experience, reminiscent of a soft “thud” upon actuation. This distinct sound signature has made it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate a bass-heavy tone, often enhanced when combined with the right keycaps and keyboard assembly. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch leans towards a poppy, clacky sound profile that is vibrant and energetic. While both switches deliver enjoyable acoustic experiences, the Canglan V2's low thock contrasts with the Cream Yellow Pro's lively clack, catering to different auditory preferences.
Regarding feel, the Canglan V2 is engineered to deliver a silky, feathery experience with a bouncy sensation upon keypresses. This smoothness ensures minimal resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions while preventing finger fatigue. Users can expect a lively feel from this switch, allowing for swift and effortless keypresses. In comparison, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also provides a feathery touch that requires little exertion but adds elements of snappiness; each keypress feels responsively reactive, which can make typing feel more dynamic. Additionally, the polished nature of the Cream Yellow Pro facilitates a refined touch, further enhancing the typing experience through reduced friction and smooth travel.
In summary, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches are designed to cater to specific user preferences in sound and feel. The Canglan V2 focuses on producing a deep, thocky sound combined with a silky and lightly bouncy feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a rich auditory experience. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more poppy sound coupled with a responsive, polished feel that can be lively and snappy. Although they each have their unique qualities, enthusiasts can find satisfaction in either switch based on their desired auditory and tactile experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you find joy in a soft and light typing experience complemented by a deeper, thocky sound signature, the Canglan V2 is your ideal pick. Its low actuation force and silky, bouncy feel make it perfect for extended typing sessions, whether for work, gaming, or casual use, while its substantial sound profile provides an auditory satisfaction that many typing enthusiasts savor. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that balances a snappy and easy-to-press design with a vibrant auditory feedback, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better choice for you. With its medium bottom-out force and a sound that leans on the clacky side, it can elevate your typing experience and responsiveness, making it particularly suitable for those who appreciate a more lively and interactive feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique charms—choose based on whether you prioritize a soft thocky feedback or a bouncier, more responsive experience in your mechanical keyboard.
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