HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can dramatically influence your typing experience. The HMX Canglan V2 offers a unique appeal with its thocky linear feel, characterized by a deep and satisfying sound signature, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate a smooth yet light touch while typing or gaming. Its innovative design, enhanced by meticulous material selection and improved molding techniques, provides a tactile sensation that many HMX enthusiasts have come to love. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out as Gateron’s heaviest linear switch, aimed at users craving a more substantial and robust typing experience. With a 60g actuation point and 70g bottom-out force, it offers a medium-heavy feel accompanied by a medium-high pitch auditory experience, further enhanced by its frosted light diffuser that elevates RGB lighting effects. While both switches provide their own unique benefits—such as the Canglan V2's lighter touch versus the G Pro 3.0 Black's solid heft—they cater to different user 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
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches differ significantly in their housing materials, which influences their overall sound profile and tactile experience. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively due to its relatively softer nature. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more muted and round when typing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is designed to produce a higher-pitched and somewhat clacky sound. This difference in material characteristics suggests that users aiming for a more subdued acoustic experience might prefer the Canglan V2, while those seeking a livelier auditory feedback could favor the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Delving into the bottom housings of these switches reveals additional contrasts. The Canglan V2 continues with nylon for its bottom housing, reinforcing the switch's overall sound profile as deep and resonant. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses POM for its bottom housing, which is noted for producing a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While both designs aim for satisfying auditory feedback, the POM housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly muted response compared to the full-bodied character of the nylon in the Canglan V2. Consequently, the combination of materials utilized in each switch yields different audio signatures, illustrating how the specific material choices influence key feel and sound upon actuation and bottom-out.
Ultimately, the juxtaposition of the Canglan V2 and G Pro 3.0 Black highlights the complexity of switch design, particularly in how top and bottom housing materials interact to shape the user experience. If one were to use a switch that features housing materials from both of these models, the tactile feedback during typing would convey the properties of both nylon and POM. While the Canglan V2's use of nylon results in a fuller and rounder sound profile, the cohabitation with POM might create a unique sound signature that is both textured and vibrant. This demonstrates how variations in housing materials can yield a diverse yet satisfactory typing experience, regardless of the specific switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge that can influence user preference. The Canglan V2 requires a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for typists who favor longer typing sessions due to its reduced resistance. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with increased resistance. As such, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier choice. Users looking for a softer feel may gravitate towards the Canglan V2, while those who enjoy a firmer push should consider the G Pro 3.0 Black. This significant difference in forces ensures that the two switches cater to distinct typing preferences, whether for extended productivity or a more tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Canglan V2 boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black extends further with a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black the longer option, providing a more traditional typing experience, which some users may find more satisfying due to its increased depth. Conversely, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Canglan V2 caters to users who prefer a more responsive feel and quicker actuation, often favored by gamers who benefit from faster response times. Therefore, if a user prioritizes a rapid keystroke feedback, the Canglan V2 would be the preferable choice, whereas those seeking a more substantial keypress might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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
The auditory qualities of the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches present a contrast that reflects their intended user experiences. The Canglan V2 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound signature, appealing to those who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback that complements a linear platform. This deeper tone can evoke a sense of refinement and pleasure while typing. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black produces a medium-high pitch sound that leans towards a more clacky auditory experience. Its sound is characterized as crisp and bright, providing a sharper auditory feedback. This distinction could matter depending on the preference for a deeper or higher-pitched sound profile, making the Canglan V2 potentially more suitable for quieter environments while the G Pro 3.0 Black could appeal more in personal settings where a lively sound is appreciated.
When it comes to feel, the differences continue. The HMX Canglan V2 boasts a smooth and light tactile experience, making it easy to maneuver across keys, which may resonate well with users seeking an effortlessly fluid typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more substantial typing feel with its notable weight, leading to a creamy and silky smooth sensation, enhanced further by its heavier actuation force. The 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force provide a robust engagement that can cater to typists who prefer a more tactile response and feedback from each keystroke.
In summary, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches involves weighing auditory preferences and the subjective typing experience. Enthusiasts looking for a thocky, deep sound signature and a light yet smooth feel might lean toward the Canglan V2, while those desiring a clackier profile and a medium-heavy, creamy typing experience may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black. Both switches offer unique qualities capable of delivering enjoyable typing experiences tailored to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches depends largely on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice due to its 48-gram bottom-out force, making it ideal for extended typing sessions where comfort and speed are paramount. Its unique thocky sound signature and smooth feel cater to those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud, suitable for quieter environments. On the other hand, if you are someone who appreciates a more substantial and tactile feel while typing, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its 70 grams of resistance will appeal to you. This switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience that many find pleasurable for both gaming and typing, along with a clacky sound profile that is more pronounced. Additionally, if you're a fan of RGB lighting, the frosted light diffuser enhances the visual experience beneath your fingers. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight, thocky feel or a more robust, creamy typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
