HMX Canglan V2 vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and Dareu Dream stand out as two compelling linear options, each catering to different preferences and priorities among enthusiasts. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its unique blend of materials and improved molding techniques, delivering a satisfying thocky sound profile combined with a smooth, light feel that HMX fans have eagerly awaited. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream strikes a different chord, offering a very light linear experience at an attractive price point, appealing to those who seek both quality and affordability. While the Canglan V2 may be ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience, the Dareu Dream targets those looking for a budget-friendly switch without sacrificing performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Dream offer distinct auditory experiences primarily due to their differing top housing materials. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributable to nylon's inherently softer composition, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, when typing on the Canglan V2, users can expect a more rounded sound that can contribute to a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Dream employs polycarbonate in its top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant audio experience, emphasizing the crispness and clarity of each keystroke. The aesthetic translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the effects of RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing option for gamers and typists alike.
Interestingly, both keyboards share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon for both the Canglan V2 and the Dareu Dream. This means that regardless of the contrast in top housing materials, both switches will deliver a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel due to the properties of nylon. Both keyboards will evoke a deeper and more rounded sound profile from the bottom housing, further unifying the auditory experience during typing. Therefore, while the top housings provide distinct characteristics, the nylon bottom housings serve to merge these experiences, ensuring that users will find a consistent tactile quality as they bottom out.
In summary, the Canglan V2 and Dareu Dream diverge in their top housing materials, leading to varied auditory characteristics in their key responses. However, the commonality of nylon in both bottom housings helps maintain a unified sound profile during key presses. This contrast enables typists to experience the nuances of sound and feel inherent in the materials while still enjoying the benefits of nylon's full-bodied auditory qualities at the bottom. As a result, users can anticipate a rich typing experience with the Canglan V2 and a crisper sound profile with the Dareu Dream, highlighting how different combinations of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch both cater to different preferences in typing feel due to their varying actuation forces. The Canglan V2 has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a relatively light option that could be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Dream has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but information regarding its bottom out force remains unavailable. This means that while the Canglan V2 requires a bit more force to actuate, its bottom out pressure provides a tactile sensation upon full depression. Ultimately, the Canglan V2 is the heavier of the two switches in terms of actuation force, whereas the Dream offers a lighter touch, making it potentially more comfortable for users seeking minimal resistance. If the bottom out force of the Dream were known, we could further evaluate how these switches compare in their overall typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Dream offers a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This difference in travel distance can significantly affect typing and gaming experiences; the Canglan V2’s shorter distance may provide quicker response times, appealing to gamers seeking speed, whereas the Dream’s longer travel distance can give a more substantial feel during key presses for those who prefer deeper feedback. Ultimately, the choice between them hinges on personal preference for responsiveness or a more traditional typing 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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 stands out with its deep, thocky signature that creates a satisfying auditory experience, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate richer sound profiles. This carefully crafted acoustic character arises from the switch's superior blend of materials and molding techniques, enhancing the overall keyboard experience. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switches produce a clacky sound, noted for their crisp and bright tone that delivers a snappy auditory feedback. While the Canglan V2 offers a more profound sound ambiance, the Dream brings a lively and energetic feel that can brighten up the typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch can vary significantly depending on the keyboard build and keycap choice, making it essential to experiment with different setups to find personal preference.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 offers a smooth, light experience, which contributes to an overall effortless typing session. This gentle actuation is particularly enjoyable for long typing tasks, providing a balance of comfort and response that many users seek in a linear switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches excel in lightness, featuring an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force to activate. Their mild nature allows for reduced finger fatigue during extended usage, making them accessible to both typists and gamers. While both switches prioritize a light touch, the Canglan V2 may provide slightly more satisfying resistance compared to the uniform ease of the Dareu Dream. This subtle distinction can influence individual preferences based on typing style and comfort needs.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Dareu Dream linear switches cater to different tastes while maintaining common traits like light actuation and comfort. The Canglan V2 draws enthusiasts with its deep, thocky sound and smooth feel, while the Dareu Dream appeals to those looking for a crisp auditory feedback and effortless key presses. While both switches offer their unique advantages, choosing between them ultimately depends on an individual’s sound preference and tactile feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns perfectly with their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Dream linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what you're looking for in your keyboard experience. If you prefer a switch that offers a light feel with a satisfying deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its smooth typing experience, combined with its thocky sound, can enhance your overall enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're seeking an affordable option that requires minimal force to activate, the Dareu Dream switch shines with its easy-to-press design. This switch's mild characteristics make it approachable and comfortable, particularly for long periods of use, reducing finger fatigue and promoting an effortless typing experience. Ultimately, consider how much you value sound, tactile feedback, and actuation force as you make your decision between these two enticing options.
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