HMX Canglan V2 vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Lupine linear switches offer distinct experiences, each with its unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and smooth, light feel, thanks to its expertly crafted materials and improved molding techniques. This switch appeals particularly to users who appreciate a more resonant typing experience and a tactile comfort that makes long typing sessions enjoyable. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine features two-stage long springs that provide a consistent weight distribution and an invigorating rebound, making for a dynamic typing feel. Users are treated to a classic clacky sound profile, which appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback alongside a refined typing experience. Both switches present compelling reasons to choose them based on personal preferences in sound and feel; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Lupine exhibit notable contrasts, particularly in their top housing composition. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Durock Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, a choice that sharpens the overall sound output, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance, making it particularly effective in producing a clearer and more vibrant sound. Moreover, polycarbonate's translucency not only allows for pronounced audio characteristics but also makes it the preferred choice for showcasing RGB lighting, adding an extra aesthetic appeal.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, it is noteworthy that both the Canglan V2 and the Lupine employ nylon material, which results in a consistent sound profile for the bottom housing. The use of nylon in this context ensures a deeper and fuller sound that aligns with the characteristics of the nylon top housing of the Canglan V2. This duality in material for the bottom housing underscores how the softer properties of nylon contribute to a uniform typing experience. In both switches, the bottom housing’s qualities significantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel, offering a similar tactile feedback that upholds the same auditory experience during key presses.
In essence, while the Canglan V2 and the Durock Lupine differ in their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—their nylon bottom housings create a common grounding that allows for similar results in terms of overall sound experience. The presence of nylon in both bottom housings leads to a consistent auditory response, ensuring that users appreciate a deeper, rounder sound profile upon bottoming out regardless of the differing top materials. Consequently, even though users may notice differences in sound during the key release between the two switches, the shared attributes of the nylon bottom housing provide a cohesive auditory experience that elevates typing enjoyment across both models.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch differ significantly in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 boasts a lightweight actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions due to its ease of use. In contrast, the Lupine switch features an unknown actuation force but has a considerably higher bottom out force of 62 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. This heavier bottom out force suggests that the Lupine might provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push. As a result, typists seeking a lighter feel for prolonged use would likely favor the Canglan V2, while those desiring a stronger tactile feedback might gravitate toward the Durock Lupine, even without knowing its actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a more responsive feel, making it a suitable option for gamers who appreciate quicker key actuation. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Lupine may appeal to users who prefer a more immersive and substantial typing experience due to the additional depth. Therefore, if you're looking for a swift response time, the Canglan V2 is the shorter option, while the Lupine provides a more pronounced tactile feedback with its longer travel distance.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 produces a notably thocky sound signature, which is deeply satisfying and resonates well for users who appreciate a robust auditory feedback while typing. This deep sound profile stands in contrast with the Durock Lupine switch, which offers a more clacky sound. The Lupine's sound is characterized as neutral, balancing moderate actuation force with a sound that is suitable for a range of environments, from home to workplace settings. Additionally, the Lupine features a high-pitched element when pressed, resulting in a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. Ultimately, while the Canglan V2’s sound is rich and bassy, the Lupine’s clacky nature provides a distinct auditory experience that appeals to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is celebrated for its smooth and light touch, enabling users to experience a refined typing sensation that distinguishes it from standard switches. Conversely, the Durock Lupine switch features a mild feel, allowing for a more gentle and approachable typing experience. The upward movement is enhanced by its two-stage long springs, leading to a more dynamic sensation as users type. Additionally, the Lupine’s polished finish contributes to a smoother key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. Together, these attributes offer a distinct yet enjoyable feel, catering to various typing styles.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Lupine linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences. While the Canglan V2 impresses with its deep, thocky sound, the Lupine stands out with its crisp and clacky profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a sharper auditory response. On the feel front, the Canglan V2’s smooth lightness contrasts with the Lupine’s mild nature, offering a comfortable typing experience for a variety of users. Whether you opt for the Canglan V2 or the Lupine, each switch will satisfy different preferences, showcasing the diverse appeal of linear switches in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in feel, sound, and typing experience. If you lean towards a smoother, lighter switch with a deep, thocky sound profile, the Canglan V2 is the ideal choice for you. Its lower bottom-out force of 48 grams can provide a comfortable typing experience, especially during long coding sessions or gaming marathons where rapid key presses are common. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced feedback with a bit more resistance, the Durock Lupine offers a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams that lends itself to a consistent weight distribution across the stroke. This switch is particularly suitable if you enjoy a more tactile experience or if you appreciate a classic clacky sound profile that can add character to your typing. Additionally, the Lupine's two-stage long springs contribute to a unique rebound feel, which can enhance your overall typing efficiency. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether you value a lightweight feel and deep acoustics with the Canglan V2 or a more substantial, polished experience with the Lupine that strikes a balance between a gentle touch and satisfying auditory feedback.
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