HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow present two distinct yet appealing options for users seeking an enhanced typing experience. The Canglan V2 is designed for enthusiasts who crave a thocky sound profile coupled with a smooth and light feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate both auditory and tactile feedback in their keystrokes. With its innovative construction and refined materials, it stands out in the HMX lineup as a premium choice for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow strikes an excellent balance between performance and affordability, offering a higher-pitched clacky sound and a bouncy typing sensation that caters to budget-conscious users without sacrificing quality. Its polished and creamy feel makes it an attractive option for casual gamers and everyday typists who enjoy a lively keystroke without breaking the bank. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, a notable distinction arises between their top housings. The Canglan V2 employs a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This material tends to absorb sound effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure. This rigidity results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound, creating a more resonant typing experience. The aesthetic quality of polycarbonate, with its translucence, allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, providing an additional visual appeal that the nylon housing lacks. Therefore, while both switches deliver unique typing experiences, the variance in their top housing materials significantly influences their auditory profiles.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their respective bottom housings. This shared material ensures that the deeper and fuller sound profile synonymous with nylon is present in both switches. As the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the feel and sound of bottoming out, both switches will exhibit that similar characteristic of a rounded, muted sound upon key engagement. Consequently, while the top housing differences lead to distinct auditory experiences during key release, the nylon bottom housing contributes a similar overall sound while typing, highlighting the importance of material selection in key feel and sound.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials contributes to the unique characteristics of each switch. Since the Canglan V2 offers a nylon top that imparts a warmer sound and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow employs a polycarbonate top that produces a sharper resonance, users can choose based on their sound preference—whether they favor a softer, deeper typing experience or a crisper, more pronounced one. However, the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches will share a familiar auditory profile at the point of key press, providing a balanced yet distinct tactile experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Canglan V2 boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended work sessions or lengthy gaming marathons. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier resistance may attract users seeking a more tactile and substantial feel when typing. Overall, while the Canglan V2 offers a lighter touch, making prolonged use more comfortable, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a firmer push, providing a more pronounced typing experience. Therefore, individuals should choose based on their preference for weight—lighter for comfort and longer sessions, or heavier for a more robust feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Canglan V2, with its shorter travel distance, could be preferable for gamers who value quick response times, as it allows for faster key actuation. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel, providing a "hearty depth" that can enhance typing comfort for some. Ultimately, if you seek a more responsive experience, the HMX Canglan V2 would be the better choice, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be favored by users who enjoy a traditional switch feel.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 linear switch offers a satisfyingly deep and thocky audio experience that many enthusiasts crave. Its expertly crafted blend of materials and molding techniques contribute to this rich sound signature that resonates deeply and provides satisfying feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile that might appeal to those who prefer a crisper auditory experience. The resonant quality of the G Pro switch enhances its sound signature, making it ideal for users looking for a more acute auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, the sound profile varies considerably between the two switches, offering distinct auditory pleasures that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 boasts a smooth and light touch that sets it apart from other switches in the HMX lineup, designed for a seamless typing experience. This fluidity allows for easy key presses that enhance overall typing speed and comfort. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is characterized by its polished and creamy sensation, providing a buttery smooth typing experience. The combination of factory lubrication and quality materials leads to reduced friction and effortless key travel. While both switches promise enjoyable typing experiences, the Canglan V2 leans towards a light and graceful touch, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow emphasizes a sleek and smooth execution.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Canglan V2 offers a deeper, thocky sound paired with a smooth and light feel, perfect for those who appreciate a richer audio experience in their mechanical keyboards. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow attracts users with its higher-pitched clacky sound and a polished, creamy touch that emphasizes an effortless typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit in distinctly different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and force requirements. If you prefer a lighter touch with a satisfyingly deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice, particularly for those who enjoy a thocky auditory experience that enhances the overall typing enjoyment. Its lighter actuation force of 48 grams makes it ideal for fast typists or those who prioritize reduced finger fatigue during extended usage. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced and bouncy type feel accompanied by a high-pitched, crisp sound, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow might be better suited for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams will provide a reassuring feedback while still offering a smoothly polished and creamy typing experience, making it a fantastic option for both leisurely typing and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by how these attributes align with your specific needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard setup.
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