HMX Canglan V2 vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and KTT Lightning offer unique experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Canglan V2, known for its thocky sound and smooth, light keystrokes, is a dream for enthusiasts who appreciate a deeper audio profile and a satisfying tactile experience. Its meticulous craftsmanship and improved molding techniques provide a high-quality feel that enhances both typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Lightning targets speed enthusiasts with its polished design and clacky sound profile, ideal for competitive gamers who want every millisecond to count. The slick typing experience of the KTT Lightning allows for quick and responsive keystrokes, making it a compelling option for those who thrive on performance. Both switches have their merits, catering to different needs and preferences, creating a fascinating comparison in the realm of linear switches. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Lightning switches, it becomes evident that they differ in terms of their top housings. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from the softer nature of nylon, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning uses a polycarbonate top housing, prized for generating a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking an expressive auditory experience, especially in setups utilizing RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Interestingly, both the Canglan V2 and the KTT Lightning utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared material results in a similar tonal quality at the bottom of the switch, allowing both switches to deliver a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer tactile feel, which can enhance overall typing comfort. Consequently, while there are distinctions in how sound profiles manifest when the keys are pressed and released, the bottom housing material ensures comparable results in terms of feel and sound between the two switches.
In summary, the differentiation in sound profiles primarily lies in the top housing materials, with the Canglan V2 leaning towards a warmer and rounder sound due to its nylon composition, while the KTT Lightning offers a brighter, more pronounced auditory clarity owing to its polycarbonate construction. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, ensuring that their bottom-out sound and tactile feedback remain consistent across both models. This combination of materials allows users to experience a unique blend of auditory characteristics, making them suitable options for various typing preferences, especially when considering the impact of top and bottom housings on overall sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users seeking comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. The Canglan V2 has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lightning features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. While both switches exhibit very similar characteristics, the Canglan V2 is slightly lighter than the Lightning, offering a marginally easier keystroke initiation. Conversely, the Lightning, being a tad heavier, provides a slightly more substantial feel when bottoming out. Users who prefer lighter switches for longer typing comfort may lean toward the Canglan V2, whereas those who appreciate a stronger push may find the Lightning more appealing due to its heavier forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This distinction means that the Canglan V2 provides a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the Lightning's shorter travel distance aligns with the trends in gaming keyboards, favoring quicker response times. For gamers or those seeking rapid key presses, the KTT Lightning may be the preferable choice. Conversely, for users who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, the Canglan V2 would be more suitable.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound signature, providing a rich auditory experience that enthusiasts particularly enjoy. This deep tone contrasts sharply with the KTT Lightning switch, which produces a sound profile characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive qualities. The Lightning's clacky and high-pitched sounds create a lively auditory feedback that many users find engaging; however, this tonal brightness may not appeal to those who prefer the more subdued and resonant notes of the Canglan V2. Thus, if you're looking for a switch that offers a substantial yet muted sound, the Canglan V2 would be ideal, while the Lightning caters to those who appreciate a sharper and more energetic acoustic performance.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Canglan V2 is known for its smooth, light touch, providing a satisfying typing experience that many find delightful. Its combination of materials and improved molding techniques contribute to a polished and seamless action with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch offers a slick typing feel with a subtle resistance that is both gentle and refined, allowing for quick, effortless strikes. This polished finish aids in reducing friction during key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth experience, though the Canglan V2 leans more toward a delightful lightness, while the Lightning focuses on a quick and fine-tuned touch that can enhance speed during fast-paced gaming or typing.
In conclusion, selecting between the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Lightning switches ultimately depends on your preferred auditory and tactile qualities. The Canglan V2 provides a thocky, deep sound combined with a smooth, light feel that lends itself to a mellow yet enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Lightning excels with its clacky, bright sounds and slick, polished action, perfect for those who thrive on speed and precision. If you favor one switch's characteristics over the other, you can expect to find a compelling choice in either, as they both offer unique aspects that enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Lightning linear switches, your preference for typing experience and acoustics will play a crucial role. If you are after a switch that delivers a plush, thocky sound with a smooth and light feel, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice, especially if you appreciate deeper audio profiles and a delightful typing sensation. This switch shines in settings where sound and tactile feedback enhance your overall experience, making it appealing for both gaming and typing enthusiasts who seek that satisfying auditory cue without being overly loud. On the other hand, if you require a switch that provides fast responsiveness, especially for competitive gaming, the KTT Lightning should be your go-to option. Its clacky sound profile and polished feel will offer you the speed and agility you need while ensuring that your keystrokes are quick and precise. This switch is ideal if you predominantly find yourself in fast-paced environments where milliseconds count and you desire a switch that delivers a refined yet slightly more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a smooth, deeper sound with the Canglan V2 or a snappy, faster-keying experience with the KTT Lightning.
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