HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two contenders stand out: the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The Canglan V2, a linear switch, is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and smooth, light keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without tactile bumps. Its carefully engineered materials and state-of-the-art molding techniques deliver a satisfying auditory feedback that HMX enthusiasts have been craving. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, offers a distinct typing sensation characterized by its precise molding and subtly enhanced backlighting effects. The two-stage spring design delivers a firm return and a consistent feel, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile response that allows for more intentional keystrokes. While both switches cater to different preferences—one seeks a smooth and quiet performance, while the other provides a defined tactile bump—understanding their unique features is crucial. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, the most notable distinction lies in their top housings. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer nature, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively results in a duller and rounder auditory experience, making it appealing for users who prefer a muted typing sound. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and enables a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a favored choice for aesthetic purposes in keyboard builds that incorporate lighting.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both the Canglan V2 and the Jupiter Banana utilize nylon for this component. This shared characteristic means that both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile during each keypress, due to nylon's properties. Given that the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, users can expect a consistent auditory feedback regardless of the differences in the top housing materials. This similarity is crucial because it ensures a cohesive typing experience even as the two switches produce different sound profiles during the actuation and release of the keys.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials leads to distinct yet complementary sound characteristics in the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. While the nylon top housing of the Canglan V2 allows for a muted typing sound, the polycarbonate top of the Jupiter Banana introduces a clarity that sharply contrasts this effect. However, the nylon bottom in both models balances the acoustic output during bottoming out, thereby creating a unique synergy between the components. This means that while users venturing between these two switches will experience varying auditory profiles, they will also appreciate a familiar depth of sound inherent to the nylon material utilized in the bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, offering a more substantial feel when typing. This difference caters to users who enjoy a stronger resistance and tactile feedback in their presses. Consequently, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, while the Jupiter Banana is the heavier switch, appealing to distinctly different preferences in keyboard feel and performance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, the Canglan V2 measures 3.5 mm, while the Jupiter Banana has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced sensation when typing, appealing to users who prefer a deeper feel in their key presses. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana might cater more towards gamers or those who appreciate quicker response times, despite the potential for a more abrupt feel. Ultimately, if you're opting for a switch that offers a balance between responsiveness and depth, you might choose based on these subtle variances in travel distance, with the Canglan V2 being the more traditional option and the Jupiter Banana being the slightly shorter choice.
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 Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 profile of the HMX Canglan V2 is characterized as thocky, delivering a deep and resonant sound that many enthusiasts find satisfying. This unique sound signature evokes a rich auditory experience, often preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana presents a higher-pitched and resonant sound, which produces a clean and sharp auditory feedback. Users of the Jupiter Banana will experience a crisp note with each keystroke, appealing to those who favor a brighter acoustic profile. Both switches offer an enjoyable sound experience, albeit in markedly different tonal ranges, and the overall acoustic performance can be influenced further by the choice of keyboard construction and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is distinguished by its smooth and light typing experience that allows for effortless keystrokes, enhancing the overall comfort during extended use. This lightness can be attributed to the meticulous design and material blend, resulting in reduced friction. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana boasts a polished and creamy feel. The polished design gives a refined touch, making each key press feel sleek and smooth, while the creamy quality allows for a buttery typing sensation. This combination creates a silky experience reminiscent of gliding fingers over the keys, promoting a delightful tactile feedback. While both switches provide a refreshing typing experience, they cater to different preferences in terms of how a key feels during use.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound and light, smooth feel, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched, crisp sound combined with a polished and creamy typing experience. Each switch has its own unique attributes that cater to varying preferences, from auditory enjoyment to tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on whether you prioritize a thocky acoustic profile with a smooth feel or a crisp sound with a refined tactile experience. Either way, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying performance in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To summarize, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a smooth, linear feel with a richly deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who indulge in gaming or fast typing, where quick, uninterrupted keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback in your typing with a more robust bottom-out force, the Jupiter Banana is the way to go. Its crisp, resonant sound and creamy tactile sensation provide satisfying feedback, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bit more resistance and the gratifying feel of a tactile switch during typing sessions. In essence, consider how you plan to use your keyboard—whether for gaming, typing, or a combination of both—as well as your preference for sound and resistance, and you'll be well-equipped to make the right decision.