HMX Canglan V2 vs. Huano Elf
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Elf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Elf offer distinct yet enticing options for enthusiasts seeking the perfect typing experience. The HMX Canglan V2 switch stands out with its thocky linear feel, featuring a meticulously crafted blend of materials that provides a satisfyingly deep sound signature alongside a smooth, light action. This blend makes it ideal for those who appreciate a rich auditory feedback combined with a light touch while typing. On the other hand, the Huano Elf switch is designed with a POK top housing that enhances its acoustic properties, delivering a deep sound signature and a medium-light feel that many find comforting during prolonged use. Both switches cater to different preferences, particularly in terms of sound and tactile experience, making them suitable for various typing styles and environments. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
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
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
Stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Elf switches showcase an intriguing contrast in their top housing materials, with the Canglan V2 utilizing nylon and the Elf employing POK. Nylon, as featured in the Canglan V2, is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its relatively softer composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a typing experience that is rounded and muted, which many users find comforting. In contrast, the Huano Elf's POK material, while also effective, offers a different acoustic quality. With a lower coefficient of friction and superior durability, POK delivers a smooth, clacky sound that enhances the tactile feedback of the switch, catering to users seeking a more energized typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Canglan V2 and the Elf use nylon, which brings a sense of uniformity to the typing experience despite the differences in their top housings. The nylon in both models facilitates a deeper sound profile, ensuring a substantial feel when bottoming out the key. Although the Elf’s top housing offers a different auditory signature, the shared nylon bottom housing creates a consistent base for the switches. Thus, while users may notice the enhanced smoothness and distinct sound of the POK top housing in the Elf, the deep and fulsome sound when pressing the key will largely mirror the experience provided by the Canglan V2.
Ultimately, the standout differences in the top housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Elf dictate their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback, while the similarities in the nylon bottom housing offer a baseline consistency across both products. Users who gravitate towards a more muted and plush typing experience might prefer the Canglan V2, whereas those who seek a sharper, more engaging sound may favor the Elf. However, because they share the same nylon bottom housing, users can expect a fundamentally similar tactile feedback upon actuation, leading to somewhat comparable overall performance despite divergent auditory experiences.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Huano Elf linear switch share the same actuation force of 42 grams, indicating that both switches require a similar amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This makes them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without excessive fatigue. However, the Canglan V2 has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which provides a slight resistance at the end of the keypress, offering a more substantial feel when bottoming out. In contrast, the Huano Elf switch's bottom out force is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare their bottoming out experiences. If the Elf were also to have a bottom out force around or similar to that of the Canglan, users might find the typing experience comparable, but without that data, a definitive conclusion cannot be drawn. Overall, the Canglan V2 is the heavier option when considering the bottom out force, whereas both switches are equal in actuation force.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Elf linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a slightly shorter actuation depth compared to the Elf, making it a potentially better choice for gamers who favor quicker response times and a more responsive feel with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Huano Elf, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke and a sense of deeper engagement while typing. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, those seeking faster actuation might lean towards the Canglan V2 for its shorter travel distance.
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 Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 renowned for its deep, thocky sound signature that captivates HMX enthusiasts. This satisfying acoustics stems from its meticulous design and high-quality materials, allowing for a richly resonant typing experience. Similarly, the Huano Elf switch also boasts a deep sound signature, enhanced by its POK top housing which is engineered for optimal acoustics. Both switches deliver a pleasing auditory experience that can be influenced further by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, but individually, they maintain a distinctly rich sound that can elevate the overall typing experience.
When considering the feel, the Canglan V2 is characterized by a smooth, light action that promotes swift keystrokes and effortless typing. This lightweight feel, combined with its thocky sound, creates an engaging environment for users who prioritize both speed and comfort. In contrast, the Huano Elf switch provides a medium-light feel, offering a balance between resistance and ease of use, which appeals to those who enjoy a little feedback without adding fatigue during long typing sessions. While they differ slightly in the resistance level, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience tailored to the preferences of different users.
Overall, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Huano Elf switches offer compelling auditory and tactile experiences, but they each bring unique qualities to the table. If you favor deeper sounds, the Canglan V2 might be more to your liking, while the Elfs provide a similar depth with a slightly different feel. Ultimately, whether you lean towards one or the other, you can expect a satisfying experience with both switches, but nuances in sound and feel will guide your decision based on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Huano Elf linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you favor a light touch and enjoy a profound, thocky sound profile, the Canglan V2 is likely your best bet. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for users who want to minimize finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, while its smooth actuation and signature deep acoustics add a level of satisfaction that can elevate your overall keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a medium-light feel and distinct, enhanced acoustic properties, the Huano Elf switch may be better suited for you despite lacking exact bottom-out force metrics. Its POK top housing is designed to amplify the sound, appealing to those who seek a richer auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a lighter, thocky feedback or a more balanced typing experience that still delivers enjoyable sound qualities. Consider your typing habits and what feels most comfortable for you—finding the right switch can make all the difference in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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