HMX Canglan V2 vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro presents distinct advantages tailored to different user preferences. The HMX Canglan V2 stands out as a linear switch celebrated for its thocky typing experience, offering a deeply satisfying sound signature alongside a smooth and light keystroke feel. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who crave a seamless, unhindered action while still enjoying the pleasurable acoustic feedback during use. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro serves those who appreciate tactile engagement without the overt noise. With its gentle bump providing subtle feedback, this switch allows for focused and immersive typing, perfect for professionals who prefer a quieter environment while remaining aware of their keystrokes. Each switch has its unique allure, highlighting the importance of identifying personal typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer texture that absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This results in a more subdued auditory experience, characterized by a duller and rounder sound, which is particularly appealing for users who prefer a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more vibrant resonance, thus giving the user a clearer sound profile. Visually, the translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the acoustic effects but also makes it an appealing choice for RGB enthusiasts looking to illuminate their keyboards with vivid lighting effects.
On the other hand, both switch models feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which harmonizes their acoustic characteristics. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall tactile feedback as you press down on the switches. This means that despite the different top housing materials, both the Canglan V2 and Gold Brown Pro deliver a consistent and familiar tactile sensation when typing. This shared nylon material ensures that the bottoming out sound of both switches leans towards a duller resonance, providing a satisfying response that many typists appreciate. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of feel and auditory experience when the key hits the bottom.
Overall, the contrasting materials of the top housings result in notable differences in sound profile, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a cohesive experience across both switch types. While the Canglan V2’s nylon top emphasizes a softer, quieter typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro’s polycarbonate top provides a brighter and sharper sound. However, both switches harness the acoustic qualities of nylon in their lower housings, ensuring that users will enjoy a smooth and rounded bottom out feel. Ultimately, typing on either switch offers unique experiences that cater to varying preferences, making it essential for users to consider what sound profile they are aiming for in their keyboard setup.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch present a notable contrast in actuation force, which may influence user experience. The Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a less taxing typing experience, such as for long work hours or extended gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Canglan V2 reaches 48 grams, indicating a more noticeable resistance when the key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unspecified, leaving some uncertainty regarding how it feels at the maximum key travel. Overall, for those who favor a lighter switch with a softer feel, the Canglan V2 is the better choice, while the Gold Brown Pro might appeal to users who prefer a slightly heavier actuation feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for those who prioritize quicker response times, such as gamers. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more pronounced and tactile feel during key presses, appealing to users who prefer a deeper engagement with their keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth; shorter travel distances tend to feel more abrupt, while longer distances are often perceived as more satisfying for typing.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 is characterized by a deep, rich thock that resonates with a satisfying resonance when the key is engaged and released. This low-pitched sound provides a warm, bass-heavy auditory experience, making it appealing for users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback when typing. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro features a subdued sound profile that leans towards whisper-quiet operations. With its gentle tactile bump, the noise generated by this switch remains low, allowing for a typing experience that minimizes distractions, perfect for users who prefer a more understated environment.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 provides a smooth and light typing experience that is unrivaled in the HMX lineup. Although specific details on the switch's feel are not provided, it stands out as a delightfully satisfying linear option. The TTC Gold Brown Pro, on the other hand, emphasizes a polished and silky typing experience, resulting from its refined finish and factory lubing. This switch maintains a mild, subtle resistance without overwhelming the typist, and the stepped tactile feedback allows for gentle yet distinct momentary engagement—making it suitable for users who appreciate nuanced tactile sensations without aggressive resistance.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Canglan V2 offers a rich, thocky sound and a smooth experience, the Gold Brown Pro prioritizes subtlety, low noise, and mild tactile feedback. Together, they highlight the diverse qualities available in mechanical keyboard switches, allowing users to choose based on their individual typing experience preferences.
Conclusion
To summarize, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light key feel with a thocky sound signature that provides a satisfying auditory experience, the Canglan V2 is an exceptional choice. Its smooth action and deep, rich noise make it ideal for gamers and anyone who enjoys a fulfilling keystroke without the resistance or bump of a tactile switch. On the other hand, if you find value in having just a hint of tactile feedback without overwhelming sounds, the Gold Brown Pro may serve you better. This switch's polished and silky typing experience allows for a gentle reminder of each keystroke while maintaining a quiet operation, making it perfect for office environments or shared spaces where noise is a consideration. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prioritize a light, smooth experience or a more nuanced touch with minimal auditory distraction.
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