HMX Canglan V2 vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Koala. The Canglan V2 is a linear switch renowned for its thocky sound and smooth, light feel, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a tactile yet silent typing experience. With carefully crafted materials and improved molding techniques, it delivers a satisfying auditory signature that many HMX enthusiasts crave. On the other hand, the Durock Koala offers a balanced appeal for those who enjoy a tactile sensation without overwhelming resistance. Featuring a stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump during keystrokes, the Koala strikes a perfect middle ground—delivering feedback without being excessively loud. Both switches cater to different preferences; the Canglan V2 excels in delivering an uninterrupted flow for fast typists, while the Koala offers a gratifying tactile response that can enhance typing precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Koala, a notable distinction is found in the top housings. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer, sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Durock Koala is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile because of the stiffer nature of the plastic. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visibility of RGB lighting, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. Consequently, while both switches provide unique auditory experiences informed by their top materials, the Canglan V2's nylon top delivers a warmer sound, whereas the Koala’s polycarbonate allows for clarity and resonance.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a different dynamic, as both the Canglan V2 and the Durock Koala utilize nylon. This commonality signifies that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience and sound quality when bottomed out. The nylon's inherent softness ensures that both switches will emit a deeper and fuller sound, aligning well with the auditory characteristics often sought in gaming and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing effectively absorbs sound, creating a plush feel during key presses. Therefore, regardless of the difference in the top housing materials, users can expect a consistent level of sound dampening and tactile responsiveness from the bottom housings in both switches.
Ultimately, the interaction between top and bottom housing materials in these switches results in distinctive sound profiles and tactile experiences. With the nylon bottom housing contributing to a fuller sound, the variations in the top housing emerge as the defining feature that distinguishes the Canglan V2 from the Koala. While the nylon bottom ensures a cozy and muted bottom-out feeling across both switches, the contrasting top materials craft unique experiences during key release. In essence, even though the bottom unit is identical in composition, the perceptual differences created by the top housings ultimately define the character of each switch's performance, leading to the Canglan V2’s warmth and the Koala's crisp clarity.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for prolonged use in work or gaming contexts. In contrast, the Durock Koala switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This heavier bottom out force indicates that users may feel a more substantial typing experience, which can be favored by those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Overall, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, making it better suited for extended typing, while the Durock Koala offers a heavier resistance that may appeal to users seeking more tactile feedback in their typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Koala has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests that users who prefer a more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Canglan V2, as shorter travel distances generally facilitate quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key feel with deeper actuation points may find the Koala's 4 mm travel distance more satisfying. Thus, the choice between these switches ultimately hinges on personal preferences regarding typing dynamics and tactile feedback.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 is characterized by its deep, thocky auditory signature, which appeals to those who appreciate a rich, bass-heavy tone during typing. Its carefully engineered materials and molding techniques produce a sound that is satisfying without being overly loud, making it an enticing choice for enthusiasts seeking a balance between performance and auditory pleasure. On the other hand, the Durock Koala offers a more neutral sound profile that includes some low-pitched resonance. It strikes a balance between being pleasantly audible without overwhelming noise, catering to users who might prefer a subtle auditory experience while still enjoying a certain richness.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is notable for its smooth and light action, ensuring minimal resistance as you type, which makes for an effortless experience loved by many. In contrast, the Durock Koala presents a different tactile experience with its stepped tactility. Users can expect a pronounced bump at the actuation point, providing a satisfying feedback that informs the typist of key engagement without being overly aggressive. The Koala’s design leads to a polished feel, highlighting a balance between smooth key travel and tactile feedback, while its somewhat stiff nature requires slightly more force during operation, catering to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Koala cater to different preferences in keyboard performance. While the Canglan V2 focuses on delivering a deep sound and a smooth, light feel, the Koala emphasizes tactile feedback with a robust yet not overpowering sound. Users looking for a typing experience that is auditory yet refined might gravitate towards the Canglan V2, while those who appreciate a noticeable yet controlled tactile response might find the Koalas to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound dynamics and tactile sensations.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use scenario. If you're seeking a light, smooth typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound profile, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, then the Canglan V2 with its 48-gram bottom out force would be a wise choice. Its lightweight actuation makes it ideal for those who appreciate speed and agility in their keystrokes without the fatigue that heavier switches can cause. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more tactile feedback and prefer a more pronounced typing experience, the Koala with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams would be the way to go. The stepped tactility provides a delightful bump that can enhance your typing accuracy and satisfaction without being overwhelming, making it suitable for both casual users and those who enjoy a more engaged typing feel. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and whether you prioritize feel and sound or prefer a more balanced tactile experience.
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