HMX Canglan V2 vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to their unique preferences. The HMX Canglan V2 stands out with its thocky linear feel, a feature eagerly anticipated by aficionados seeking a rich auditory experience. Crafted with a meticulous blend of materials and advanced molding techniques, it offers a satisfyingly deep sound signature alongside a smooth and light tactile response—ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple is celebrated for its delightful resonance, producing a sound profile that favors a slightly bassy and poppy undertone, adding a unique flair to each keystroke. With a feather-light actuation force of just 47g, this switch promises a quick and effortless typing experience, appealing to both enthusiasts and everyday users who prioritize speed and ease. Both switches bring distinctive advantages to the table, yet may cater to different preferences in sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Flaming Purple, we see a significant divergence in the choice of top housing materials. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs more sound vibrations, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience that many users might appreciate for its warm feel. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple employs a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance, making the keypresses produce a clearer and more pronounced auditory feedback, particularly advantageous for users who prefer a more vibrant typing experience.
In examining the bottom housings, both the Canglan V2 and the Flaming Purple utilize nylon for this component. The use of nylon here means that both switches will share a similar sound profile in terms of the bottoming-out action, with a deeper and fuller auditory quality. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the overall feel and sound while bottoming out, users can expect a consistent performance from both switches in this regard. This alignment in material for the bottom housing ensures that regardless of the differing top housing materials, the two switches will still exhibit similarities in their overall feel and depth of sound when pressed down, appealing to a range of preferences.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials serve to define the unique auditory characteristics of the Canglan V2 and the Flaming Purple. While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, the Canglan V2 leans toward a warmer, muted sound profile, whereas the Flaming Purple offers a more vibrant, resonant auditory experience thanks to its polycarbonate top housing. Thus, the differences foster distinct typing experiences that cater to user preferences, ensuring that those who appreciate the richness of deeper tones might prefer the Canglan V2, while those who favor clarity and brightness in sound might gravitate towards the Flaming Purple.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch exhibit quite similar specifications when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have an actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally light, which is ideal for users who value extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons without experiencing fatigue. In terms of bottom out forces, the Canglan V2 has a slightly higher force at 48 grams compared to the Flaming Purple's 47 grams. This means that while both switches deliver a light typing experience, the Canglan V2 may provide a marginally firmer resistance at the bottom of the keystroke, fulfilling the preference of users who enjoy a more substantial feel in their typing. Overall, the Canglan V2 is slightly heavier at bottom out, while both switches share the same actuation force, catering to those looking for a lighter tactile feedback during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, the Canglan V2 measures 3.5 mm, while the Flaming Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference, although minimal, suggests that the Flaming Purple may offer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, catering to those who prefer a more hearty depth in their key presses. Conversely, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Canglan V2 can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches provide a comfortable experience, those who value quick actuation may lean towards the Canglan V2, whereas users who appreciate a more traditional depth might prefer the Flaming Purple for its slightly longer 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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 linear switch is renowned for its deep sound signature, which produces a thocky auditory experience that many HMX enthusiasts crave. This switch’s unique combination of material craftsmanship and advanced molding techniques contributes to a satisfying and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple exhibits a more neutral sound profile with a hint of bass, described as poppy, which injects a lively character into each keystroke. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Canglan V2 caters to those looking for a deeper and richer tone, whereas the Flaming Purple provides a slightly more balanced sound with engaging low-frequency undertones.
When discussing the feel of each switch, the HMX Canglan V2 is recognized for its smooth and light touch, providing users with effortless keystrokes. This switch possesses a refined actuation that promises a fluid typing experience, but specific details about its feel remain unknown. Conversely, the TTC Flaming Purple stands out for its notably feathery feel, requiring minimal force for activation — just 47g to bottom out. This makes it exceptionally easy to press and ideal for long typing sessions, ensuring comfort and reducing finger fatigue. Its silky smoothness further enhances the typing experience, resulting in a responsive and low-impact feel.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Canglan V2 and TTC Flaming Purple offer unique qualities in sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. The Canglan V2 shines with its deep thocky sound and smooth actuation, appealing to those who appreciate a richer auditory experience, whereas the Flaming Purple impresses with its resonant yet neutral sound and exceptionally light, silken typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to what kind of auditory and tactile feedback you prefer, as each provides a noteworthy experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you prioritize a thocky, satisfying auditory experience with a rich sound profile during your keystrokes, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its carefully crafted materials contribute to a smooth typing experience that delights those who appreciate a deeper sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is exceptionally light and promotes effortless typing with a resonant character, the Flaming Purple will serve you well. Its slightly bassy undertone and feathery feel cater to both long gaming sessions and daily typing without causing finger fatigue. Ultimately, consider the typing experience you desire—whether it’s the rich, thocky sounds of the Canglan V2 or the light and engaging tones of the Flaming Purple—as it will greatly influence your satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard setup.
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