HMX Canglan V2 vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and Jwick Ginger Milk provide intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, offering a satisfyingly deep sound signature coupled with a light touch that's ideal for those who appreciate a rich auditory backdrop while typing. Its meticulous design and improved molding techniques set it apart in the HMX lineup, appealing to users seeking both performance and tactile enjoyment. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk is known for its soft, pastel characteristics, providing a silky smooth and approachable typing experience. With a muted yet snappy sound profile, these switches cater to those who prefer a more subtle auditory interaction, balancing comfort with responsiveness. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference: the Canglan V2 for an engaging and deep typing experience, and the Ginger Milk for smooth and gentle keystrokes. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches exhibit distinctly different sound profiles due to their varying top housing materials, which contribute to their overall auditory experience. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is largely due to nylon's soft plastic composition, which effectively absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output. In comparison, the Ginger Milk utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate’s stiffer construction enhances sound resonance, making it ideal for those seeking a more pronounced acoustic experience. This fundamental difference in materials shapes how each switch can cater to user preferences in typing sound and feel.
Interestingly, while the top housing materials differ, both switches share nylon as the bottom housing material. This commonality allows for a consistency in the deeper and fuller sound profile that nylon provides, despite the contrasting qualities of the top housings. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback during key presses. This is essential for users who prioritize a satisfying and soft experience when actuating keys, as both the Canglan V2 and the Ginger Milk will demonstrate a similar quality in the tactile sensation upon bottoming out. Therefore, while one switch may create a more striking auditory experience on release due to its polycarbonate top, both can equally deliver a pleasing tactile performance when pressed.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials, it is evident that the combined qualities of the Canglan V2 and Ginger Milk switches will culminate in unique acoustic signatures. The distinct differences in the sound profiles, driven by their top housings, reflect the user’s tactile preferences and auditory expectations. However, the shared nylon bottom housings ensure that both switches maintain a certain depth and fullness in sound upon key presses, allowing users to appreciate similar bottom-out characteristics despite the contrasting top housing materials. Consequently, whether one prefers the resonant clarity of polycarbonate or the muted warmth of nylon, each switch offers an enjoyable and fulfilling typing experience, shaped by the interplay of its materials.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch present clear distinctions in both 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 an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable typing experience, especially for prolonged use. In contrast, the Ginger Milk boasts a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. While the actuation forces differ, resulting in a lighter overall feel for the Canglan V2 compared to the Ginger Milk, both switches ultimately cater to varying preferences in typing style. If users prefer a lighter switch for extended sessions, the Canglan V2 is the optimal choice, whereas those wanting more resistance and a stronger feedback will likely favor the Ginger Milk.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ginger Milk operates at a slightly longer distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times for quicker key actions. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk, with its longer travel distance, could cater to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience as they press down on the keys. Ultimately, if responsiveness is your priority, the Canglan V2 could be the better choice, while those who appreciate a deeper feel might find the Ginger Milk more satisfying.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 sound produced by the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly deep, thocky quality, which enthusiasts find highly appealing. This richer sound profile evokes a sense of satisfaction that many users crave during their typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch offers a neutral sound profile; it strikes a balance that is moderate and suitable for various environments. This versatility means the Ginger Milk switch can be used comfortably at home or in office settings without being overly distracting. Both switches excel in their own right, with the Canglan V2 providing a deeper auditory experience, while the Ginger Milk remains refined and adaptable.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 switch is noted for its smooth and light action, offering users an enjoyable typing experience that stands out from other linear switches. Its combination of well-crafted materials and improved molding results in a keystroke that many find pleasurable. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch provides a buttery feel, which conveys a seamless and effortless typing sensation. This makes it approachable for users of all skill levels, allowing for a smooth keystroke experience that can make prolonged typing less taxing. While the two switches have distinct tactile characteristics, both are designed to enhance comfort and function during use.
Overall, if you're considering the HMX Canglan V2 or the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Canglan V2 delivers a rich, thocky sound combined with a light and smooth feel, which might attract those seeking a more pronounced auditory experience. The Ginger Milk, with its neutral sound and buttery soft action, provides a delicate balance ideal for versatile usage. With both switches designed for satisfying typing experiences, you can be assured that you will enjoy a quality performance regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switches, it's essential to consider both your typing preferences and the sound profile you desire. If you favor a lighter switch that delivers a thocky sound signature with a satisfying depth, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a smooth and effortless keypress. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it more suited for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with a medium to heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Ginger Milk switches provide a buttery smooth feel and a neutral sound profile, making them versatile for both home and work environments. This switch may be ideal for you if you seek a muted yet snappy response that doesn't distract others around you. Ultimately, your choice between the two should reflect your personal preferences in feel, sound, and typing style.
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