HMX Canglan V2 vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the unique characteristics of each option. The HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and smooth feel, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a deeper auditory experience while typing. Its refined materials and improved molding techniques create an exceptional linear switch that is both lightweight and pleasurable to use. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch stands out with its innovative 3.5mm travel distance, specifically designed to mitigate the hard bottoming-out sensation that many users experience with longer-stem switches. This thoughtful engineering prioritizes user comfort and balances tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, all while using a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent feel. Both switches cater to different preferences within the linear category, appealing to those who seek distinct tactile experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Hyacinth utilize distinct materials for their respective top housings, resulting in divergent acoustic profiles. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and thus produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This fundamental difference signifies that while the Canglan V2 focuses on creating a rounder acoustic experience, the Hyacinth is designed to deliver a clearer and more resonant sound. Notably, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing also enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially under RGB lighting, which sets it apart visually from the more muted presence of nylon.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both the Canglan V2 and the Hyacinth use nylon at the bottom. This similarity means that when typing, the qualities imparted by the bottom housing remain consistent across both models, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon key bottoming out. The nylon material absorbs sound effectively, ensuring that both switches provide a similar tactile experience and auditory sensation when pressed down. Therefore, while their top housings might create distinct sound profiles, the consistent use of nylon for both models’ bottom housings contributes to a shared experience during the typing process.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the Canglan V2 and Hyacinth demonstrate how switching acoustics can vary even when the bottom housings coincide. The Canglan V2’s nylon top absorbs more sound, yielding a more subdued auditory feedback upon releasing a key, while the Hyacinth's polycarbonate offers a crisper sound, enhancing the auditory feedback during the release. However, when pressed, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a unified sound profile on the bottom-out, bridging the gap between the two models. Consequently, if one seeks a customizable typing experience, either model can be appealing, each offering unique sound signatures while maintaining a similar tactile foundation.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces reflect distinct typing experiences. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less effort to press down. In contrast, the Hyacinth linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This difference in force may provide a more substantial feel for users who appreciate a stronger push. Therefore, while the Canglan V2 is the lighter option overall, the Hyacinth offers a firmer typing experience for those who prefer the sensation of a heavier switch. Both switches provide different typing experiences that cater to varying preferences among users.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when engaging with either switch, users will experience the same travel distance from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. As a result, both switches will yield similar results in terms of key travel feel, making them equally responsive and providing a consistent typing experience. Since their travel distances match, there is no shorter or longer option between the two; they are effectively the same in this regard.
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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 switch generates a satisfyingly deep sound signature that has been received enthusiastically by mechanical keyboard fans. This thocky audio profile rounds out the experience, making each keystroke feel impactful while also remaining enjoyable during long typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Hyacinth switch is characterized by a more neutral sound profile. This balanced auditory experience caters to a wide range of uses, whether in home or office settings, making it versatile for both beginners and seasoned users. While the Canglan V2 offers a deeper resonance, the Hyacinth provides a moderate sound that blends well into most environments, resulting in a more subdued presence overall.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is noted for its smooth and light typing experience that sets it apart from other switches in the HMX lineup. It allows for effortless key presses, creating a fluid typing motion that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the KTT Hyacinth switch boasts a silky feel that enhances the overall typing smoothness, minimizing resistance as keys are pressed and released. Additionally, its subtle resistance provides a gentle push that avoids overwhelming the user, making it an inviting option for long periods of typing without fatigue. This combination ensures a comfortable and engaging typing experience, albeit in slightly different ways, with the Canglan V2 focusing on a lighter touch and the Hyacinth emphasizing a smoother motion.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Canglan V2 and KTT Hyacinth switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to similar preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Canglan V2 excels in delivering a deep, thocky sound along with a notably light feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a robust auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Hyacinth provides a more neutral sound profile combined with silky smoothness and gentle resistance, appealing to users who prioritize comfort and subtle feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference regarding sound and typing feel, as both switches effectively deliver an enjoyable experience suited to diverse typing styles and settings.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, your decision should align with your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and usage context. If you prioritize a lighter feel with a rich, thocky sound signature, the Canglan V2 is likely the better option for you. It’s designed to deliver a satisfying auditory experience and is ideal if you enjoy a smooth keystroke without the fatigue of heavier actuation forces, especially during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more subtle and silky typing experience that balances feedback with comfort, the KTT Hyacinth would serve you well. Its medium-light actuation force of 56 grams gives you a bit more resistance, preventing that hard bottoming-out feeling due to its shorter travel distance, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. Therefore, consider your typing style and the environment in which you’ll use the keyboard; whether you want the satisfying depth of the Canglan V2 or the refined smoothness of the Hyacinth will guide your choice effectively.
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