HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different characteristics that cater to their unique preferences. The HMX Canglan V2, a linear switch, is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and smooth feel, allowing for a seamless typing experience that many gamers and typists crave. With its meticulously crafted materials and improved molding techniques, the Canglan V2 stands out for those who value a quiet yet satisfying performance. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a happy medium with its tactile feedback that presents a gentle bump with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate the sensation of tactile response without harshness. Its budget-friendly nature combined with vibrant RGB compatibility makes it a strong contender for those looking for both performance and aesthetics. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches each incorporate distinct materials for their top housings, contributing to their differing sound profiles. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which is known for offering a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound waves effectively, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. This characteristic makes the Canglan V2 particularly appealing for those seeking a smooth, less invasive typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate translates to clearer sound resonance, providing a more punchy auditory feedback upon key release. Accordingly, users looking for a more dynamic sound may gravitate towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown for its brighter acoustic properties.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, an interesting similarity arises. Both the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown feature nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality ensures that both switches deliver the characteristic deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon. The impact of this shared material is particularly notable during key presses, as the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether users choose the Canglan V2 or the G Pro 3.0, they can expect a consistent auditory experience when the keys are pressed down, reinforcing the overall tactile and auditory satisfaction.
Overall, while the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offer a contrasting sound experience due to their different top housing materials, they share similarities in their bottom housings that contribute to a consistent typing feel. This duality allows users to appreciate the unique auditory qualities offered by each switch while still benefiting from the deep sound dampening features of nylon in the bottom housing. Therefore, while the Canglan V2 and G Pro 3.0 Brown will provide distinct auditory experiences upon key release, their collective reliance on nylon for the bottom housing allows for a cohesive feel during use, ensuring that users can enjoy rich sound profiles regardless of the chosen switch.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of 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 suitable for longer typing sessions where reduced strain is desirable. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some typists prefer for a more pronounced tactile experience. This difference means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown will require more strength to actuate and bottom out, making it more suitable for users who enjoy a firmer key press. Ultimately, if you favor lighter switches for lengthy use, the Canglan V2 is the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is ideal for those who appreciate a more resistive typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a notable contrast in feel and response between the two switches. With the Canglan V2’s shorter travel distance, gamers or users seeking faster response times may find it preferable for rapid gaming or typing. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's longer travel distance appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and greater depth in their key presses, making it suitable for users who prefer a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, if you're searching for quicker responsiveness, the Canglan V2 is the better choice; on the other hand, those who favor a more robust feel may gravitate toward the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
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 Brown 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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch produces a satisfyingly deep sound signature that many enthusiasts find appealing. Its thocky quality contributes to a unique auditory experience, which some users may describe as immersive and rich when compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch auditory feedback, characterized by a gentle, pleasant sound that doesn't overshadow the typing experience. While both switches have their distinct audio characteristics, the Canglan V2 leans towards a deeper, more resonant tone, whereas the G Pro Brown provides a lighter, more subtle sound. Do keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard’s construction and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Canglan V2 is known for its smooth and light touch, promoting an easy typing experience that allows for swift keystrokes without much resistance. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a linear switch that doesn’t interrupt their flow. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown features a gentle tactile sensation that provides a mild but noticeable bump, giving users a tactile feedback that enhances their typing rhythm without being intrusive. Its easy-to-press nature contributes to a comfortable experience, reducing finger fatigue over long typing sessions, while its stepped characteristics allow for greater control throughout the keystroke.Overall, while the Canglan V2 offers a smooth linear feel, the G Pro Brown combines tactile feedback with a user-friendly design, creating a different, yet equally satisfying typing experience.
In summary, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches largely depends on your personal preferences in sound and feel. The Canglan V2 is perfect for those who appreciate a deeper auditory experience along with a fluid typing mechanism, while the G Pro Brown caters to individuals who enjoy tactile feedback in a more subtle form. Ultimately, both switches can provide engaging and enjoyable typing experiences, but their unique characteristics, especially in sound and tactile feedback, will guide your selection based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a light, smooth, and silent typing experience, and you appreciate a deep thocky sound that enhances your keystrokes without overwhelming them, then the Canglan V2 is an excellent option for you. It's particularly well-suited for gamers or typists who spend extended periods on their keyboards, where a gentle key press and a satisfying auditory feedback can enhance your overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback that subtly guides your fingers without disrupting your typing rhythm, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the way to go. Its medium actuation force and mild tactile bump offer a balanced typing experience, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. Plus, its ability to deliver an improved visual experience with RGB lighting may be particularly appealing if aesthetics are important to you. Ultimately, choose the Canglan V2 for a smooth and quiet feel, or the G Pro 3.0 Brown for a tactile, budget-friendly switch that doesn't skimp on quality.
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