HMX Canglan V2 vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular linear options are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Light Sakura. The Canglan V2 is celebrated among enthusiasts for its thocky linear feel, delivering a rich, deep sound signature paired with a smooth, light actuation that many find satisfying during actuation. Its meticulously crafted construction and improved molding techniques contribute to its allure, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more tactile auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura prioritizes comfort and quiet operation, making it a superb option for people who engage in long typing sessions or work in shared spaces. With its ultra-light touch, the Light Sakura reduces typing fatigue and ensures a discreet experience, allowing users to type away without disturbing others. Both switches offer unique attributes catering to different preferences in typing style and environment; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and Bsun Light Sakura employ different materials in their switch housings, leading to distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations. The Canglan V2 features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Light Sakura's use of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate is stiffer, which leads to clearer and more resonant sounds, making the Light Sakura ideal for those seeking a more vibrant auditory experience, particularly if RGB lighting is involved due to its translucency.
While both models utilize a single material for their respective housings, the differences between nylon and polycarbonate significantly affect how each switch feels and sounds under typing conditions. The HMX Canglan V2's nylon construction translates to a tactile experience characterized by a dampened and rounded feedback. This quality can enhance a user's comfort during long typing sessions, as the softer material reduces the impact of keystrokes. Conversely, the polycarbonate in the Bsun Light Sakura offers a crisp tactile response, highlighting the sound and feel of each keypress, which might appeal more to those who prefer a more pronounced and lively experience when typing or gaming.
In terms of performance and user experience, the differences in housing materials will lead to unique results for each switch. For those valuing sound depth and muted impact, the Canglan V2 excels with its Nylon housing, while the Light Sakura caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a louder, more expressive feedback thanks to its polycarbonate construction. Even though both switches aim to enhance typing or gaming experiences, the distinct qualities each material brings will satisfy differing user preferences, making them suitable for different applications and environments. Ultimately, which switch is preferable will depend on individual taste—those preferring the nuanced, soft sound of nylon may gravitate towards the Canglan V2, while those looking for clarity and resonance might favor the Light Sakura.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Canglan V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Light Sakura is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Light Sakura will likely provide a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, whereas the Canglan V2 may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel with its heavier resistance. Both switches are classified as light, but the Canglan V2 is the heavier option, offering a firmer push compared to the Sakura. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Light Sakura, while those who appreciate stronger feedback might lean toward the Canglan V2.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, there is a slight difference that could influence user preference. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Light Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive, which can be appealing for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. In contrast, the longer 3.6 mm travel distance of the Light Sakura may offer a more substantial feel, appealing to those who prefer a deeper pressing experience. Consequently, users who prioritize quick response times might gravitate towards the Canglan V2, while those who enjoy a more pronounced switch actuation might opt for the Light Sakura.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 HMX Canglan V2 switch is recognized for its deep, thocky sound signature, which many users find satisfying and reminiscent of high-quality mechanical keyboards. This pronounced sound is a key characteristic that appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed for a more subdued auditory experience; it operates quietly, making it suitable for environments where noise reduction is essential, like offices or shared spaces. While the Canglan V2 offers a more pronounced acoustic experience, the Light Sakura provides a silent operation, catering to different preferences in sound during typing.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 delivers a smooth, light touch that is enjoyable for typists seeking responsiveness without being overly heavy. This smooth operation enhances the typing experience, making it feel effortless. On the other hand, the Light Sakura excels in comfort and ultra-lightness, offering an incredibly gentle feel that is particularly advantageous for extended typing sessions. This gentleness allows users to type for hours without discomfort or fatigue, prioritizing a more fatigue-reducing experience over tactile feedback.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 and Bsun Light Sakura linear switches each cater to different preferences regarding sound and feel. The Canglan V2's deeper sound and smooth, light feel appeal to those who enjoy an audible and engaging typing experience, while the Light Sakura is perfect for individuals seeking a quiet and ultra-light option for comfort during long sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a classic typing feel with satisfying sound or a discreet and fatigue-free experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a switch that provides a satisfying and thocky sound profile combined with a smooth and light feel, the Canglan V2 could be your best companion, making it especially enjoyable for gaming or typing when you want that audible feedback without overwhelming noise. Its 48-gram actuation force strikes a nice balance for those who appreciate a light yet deliberate typing experience. On the other hand, if you often type for long periods or work in environments where noise can be a distraction, the Bsun Light Sakura is an excellent choice. With an even lighter 43-gram bottom out force and a silent operation, it prioritizes comfort and discretion, allowing you to type efficiently without disturbing others around you. In essence, choose the Canglan V2 for that satisfying tactile feedback, and select the Light Sakura for serene typing sessions that prioritize silence and ease.
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