HMX Canglan V2 vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 stand out as two distinctive linear options, each appealing to different user preferences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its "thocky" sound profile and smooth, light feel, thanks to its expertly engineered blend of materials and improved molding techniques, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a deep and rich acoustic experience. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 by Everglide brings a clacky and high-pitched sound signature to the table, along with a silky, seamless typing experience that caters to users looking for a more vibrant and lively auditory feedback. Additionally, the Silver V3's unique light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic flair to any keyboard setup. While both switches offer their own unique benefits—whether it's the satisfying thock of the Canglan V2 or the lively clack of the Lightning Silver V3—let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 present a notable contrast in housing materials that significantly influences their auditory and tactile feedback during use. The Canglan V2 employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a richer and more rounded sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, dampens sound waves effectively, leading to a deeper acoustics experience. This characteristic not only promotes a satisfying typing feel but also results in a more muted auditory output, which many users may find appealing for a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Known for its stiffness, polycarbonate generates a sharper, more resonant sound that is high-pitched and crisp. The clarity and brightness of polycarbonate can enhance the auditory experience, providing a different typing sensation altogether.
The aesthetic implications of the housing materials also diverge sharply between the two switches. The Canglan V2's nylon housing, with its opaque nature, conceals any internal RGB lighting effects, making it less suitable for users who prioritize visual illumination as part of their keyboard experience. Conversely, the Lightning Silver V3, with its clear polycarbonate design, allows for RGB lighting to shine through brilliantly. This translucency makes the V3 an attractive option for users who enjoy vibrant lighting effects, thus adding an additional layer of visual appeal to their gaming or typing setup. While both switches have their unique aesthetic attributes, the choice of housing not only affects sound but also the overall presentation of the keyboard.
Despite their differences in sound and aesthetics, both the Canglan V2 and the Lightning Silver V3 can deliver satisfying performance, appealing to different user preferences. If one seeks the deeper and fuller auditory experience that nylon provides, the Canglan V2 excels. Conversely, those who favor a clearer and sharper sound profile will gravitate toward the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the materials used for the top and bottom housings play a critical role in shaping user experiences; understanding these differences allows consumers to choose the right product based on their desired typing feel and sound quality. Regardless of the preference for nylon or polycarbonate, quality typing experiences can be achieved, illustrating the importance of individual taste in keyboard design.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch present a notable contrast in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 leverages a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who favor extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 features a medium actuation force of 48 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This difference indicates that the Canglan V2 is the lighter of the two switches, while the Lightning Silver V3 is the heavier option, aligning with varying preferences in typing experience. Therefore, users seeking a softer touch may find the Canglan V2 more accommodating, while those who appreciate a firmer push should gravitate towards the Lightning Silver V3, making their choice contingent on their specific needs and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, there is a slight distinction between the two. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the longer option, while the Lightning Silver V3 features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter. This means that users who prefer a more responsive typing experience might gravitate toward the Lightning Silver V3 for its quicker actuation. However, those who enjoy a deeper feel when pressing down may find the Canglan V2 more suitable with its greater travel distance. Ultimately, while both switches offer a relatively short travel distance—ideal for fast-paced gaming—users' preferences for responsiveness versus depth will dictate their choice between the two.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 renowned for its deep, thocky sound signature, offering a richly resonant experience that enthusiasts crave. This switch’s well-crafted materials and improved molding techniques contribute to its pleasing auditory profile, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more bass-heavy tone in their typing sound. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 showcases a notably clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. This bright sound profile stands in contrast to the Canglan V2, offering a snappy and percussive auditory experience that some may find more energetic, depending on personal preference and the specific build of their keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is characterized by a smooth, light touch that allows for effortless keystrokes, enhancing the overall typing experience. The design intention behind the Canglan V2 is to provide a fluid typing sensation that minimizes resistance. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 is celebrated for its silky smoothness, which aims to deliver an exceptionally seamless typing experience. This tactility can create a sense of speed and efficiency, particularly favored by gamers or typists looking for a rapid response from their switches.
Considering these factors, both switches present compelling options for different user preferences. The Canglan V2 is ideal for those who appreciate a deeper auditory experience combined with a smooth typing feel, while the Lightning Silver V3 suits individuals who prefer a brighter sound and a slick, quick-touch sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal taste in sound and the desired typing experience, and users can expect satisfying performance from either option, albeit with distinctly different auditory and tactile qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter typing experience combined with a deep, thocky sound signature, the Canglan V2, with its 48 grams of bottom out force, is an excellent choice. This switch excels in providing a smooth and satisfying feel, making it suitable for long typing sessions, especially if you enjoy a more subdued acoustics. On the other hand, if you seek a more energetic and vibrant experience, the Lightning Silver V3 is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, this switch gives you that silky feel while delivering a crisp, clacky, and high-pitched sound that can enliven your keyboard setup. These switches also shine if you prioritize RGB lighting, thanks to their unique light diffuser. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preferences to select the switch that best aligns with your needs.
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