HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, each option brings its own unique characteristics that can significantly influence your typing or gaming experience. The HMX Canglan V2, known for its thocky appeal, offers a meticulously crafted blend of materials that results in a deeply satisfying sound and an exceptionally smooth, light feel. This makes it a great choice for those who value acoustics and overall typing pleasure, particularly for enthusiasts who seek that signature thock sound. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver prioritizes performance with its shorter travel distance of just 3.4mm, allowing for lightning-fast actuation that gamers crave. This switch is designed to enhance gaming experiences with its medium-high pitch sound and vibrant RGB compatibility, all while providing exceptional value. Each of these linear switches caters to different preferences, whether for immersive typing or competitive gaming. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, one of the most significant differences lies in the top housings. The Canglan V2 employs a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer plastic characteristics. This softer material tends to absorb more sound, leading to a muted and rounded auditory experience, which many enthusiasts associate with a more tactile and warm typing feel. In stark contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows for a more resonant auditory output and, due to its translucency, enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users seeking aesthetic customization.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which serves to unify certain acoustic properties between the two. The nylon bottom in both the Canglan V2 and the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a consistent aspect: when pressed down, both switches will produce the deeper and rounder sound associated with nylon materials, offering a reassuring and pleasant typing experience. This shared bottom housing characteristic ensures that when the switches are actuated, they elicit similar auditory feedback, reinforcing a tactile typing sensation, regardless of the different sound profiles created by the top housings.
Thus, while the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon manifest distinctly in the top housing, the nylon bottom housing serves as a connective quality that influences the overall typing experience. The Canglan V2’s nylon top and bottom produce a sound profile that is warm and muffled, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver’s polycarbonate top and nylon bottom yield a typing experience that is sharp and accentuated. This interplay highlights how distinct materials can influence a switch’s performance, enabling users to select based on their auditory preferences while ensuring commonality in the tactile feedback offered by nylon.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch both provide a light typing experience, but they differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This slight difference means that while both switches are light, the Canglan V2 requires a little less force to activate, potentially offering a more effortless typing experience ideal for long work sessions or gaming. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, being marginally heavier, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Canglan V2 is the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a heavier, yet still manageable, typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Canglan V2 featuring a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Silver the shorter option, allowing for potentially quicker key presses, which gamers often prefer for faster response times. On the other hand, the Canglan V2, with its slightly longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for those who find shorter distances too abrupt. Ultimately, whether one opts for the Canglan V2 or the G Pro 3.0 Silver will depend on their preference for responsiveness versus a more substantial keystroke 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 impresses with its deep and thocky sound profile, which enthusiasts find particularly satisfying. This low-pitched, resonant auditory feedback provides a rich auditory experience, akin to the pleasing "thud" associated with premium switches. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer their own unique sound characteristics. They are described as bassy and low-pitched, producing a similar deep sonic profile that enhances the gaming experience. The thocky nature of both switches means that users will enjoy a gratifying sound when key presses are executed. However, the specifics of the auditory experience may vary depending on the keyboard construction and keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 provides a smooth, light typing experience without any specific descriptors noted, signifying a pleasant touch while typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a buttery and creamy feel, characterized by their smooth keystroke experience. This seamlessness may be attributed to factory lubrication or the materials used, allowing for a fluid typing sensation. Hence, while the Canglan V2 provides enjoyable tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Silver adds an extra layer of comfort and luxurious smoothness that many users may particularly appreciate.
All things considered, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches present compelling options, each excelling in distinct areas. While the Canglan V2 has a deep sound signature that appeals to users looking for a thocky auditory experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out in its quick travel distance and buttery feel, which enhances gaming performance. Choosing between these two will ultimately depend on personal preference, as each switch offers a unique contribution to the overall typing and gaming experience. If you prefer one characteristic, such as sound or feel, you might be inclined towards that switch; however, both options promise to deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch largely depends on your specific preferences and intended use. If you are drawn to a typing experience that boasts a thocky and deep sound profile, combined with a smooth, light feel, the Canglan V2 is likely the better fit for you. Its 48g bottom-out force makes it comfortable for prolonged usage, while the unique materials and construction offer that satisfying auditory feedback that many enthusiasts crave. On the other hand, if your main focus is gaming performance, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches emerge as an excellent choice. With their shorter travel distance and rapid responsiveness, coupled with a buttery feel, these switches can significantly enhance your gaming experience, giving you that competitive edge. The 50g bottom-out force may also provide a more controlled keystroke, which some gamers prefer. Ultimately, consider whether you prioritize a rich, tactile typing experience or the speed and efficiency needed for fast-paced gaming when making your decision.
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