HMX Canglan V2 vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be overwhelming, especially when considering popular choices like the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Mahjong. The Canglan V2 stands out with its thocky linear feel, delivering a satisfyingly deep sound signature that keyboard enthusiasts have been eagerly seeking. Known for its smooth and light touch, this switch emphasizes a more immersive typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a tactile auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches, characterized by their vibrant green and white color scheme, offer a livelier, poppy sound signature coupled with a bouncy and polished typing experience. This makes the Mahjong suitable for users looking for a more spirited interaction with their keyboard, ideal for fast-paced typing and gaming scenarios. Both switches present compelling features tailored to different preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
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
The housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Mahjong switches provide distinct experiences for users, largely influenced by the top housing. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, which is noted for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Mahjong incorporates a POK top housing, which boasts an impressively low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. While it is engineered for a smoother keystroke, the POK material produces a clackier sound. Although both materials serve their unique purposes, those seeking a rounder, muffled typing experience may prefer the Canglan V2, while users looking for crisp feedback could lean towards the Mahjong.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Canglan V2 and the Mahjong utilize nylon for their construction. This consistency in material suggests that the sound profile when bottoming out will retain a similar quality between the two switches, emphasizing that deeper and fuller sound associated with nylon. The similarities in the bottom housing allow for a continuity in typing experience when pressing the keys, as both switches will deliver that characteristic subtlety that nylon inherently provides. Thus, while the top housings introduce variances in feedback and sound, the nylon bottom housing acts as a common anchor that ensures a stable foundation for deeper sound production.
Overall, the combination of different materials in the top housing and the same nylon material in the bottom housing creates a multifaceted typing experience with both the Canglan V2 and the Mahjong. Users will notice a blend of attributes, with the Mahong’s POK top enhancing durability and providing a more clacky feedback, whereas the Canglan V2’s nylon top delivers softer auditory nuances. While the Canglan V2 achieves a more subdued sound overall, the factors influencing sound and feel during typing are intricately balanced between the two designs. When considering these switches, it's important to reflect on the desired auditory experience and tactile feedback, as they will ultimately dictate user preference.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we notice distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Canglan V2 has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it a lighter option ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Mahjong switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The bottom out force for the Canglan V2 is 48 grams, providing a clear feel when keys are fully pressed down. However, the bottom out force for the Mahjong switch is not available, leaving a gap in our understanding of its overall feel when bottoming out. Thus, while the Canglan V2 is the lighter option with defined actuation and bottom out forces, the Mahjong switch, while heavier, lacks complete specifications for comparison.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the longer option by a marginal 0.1 mm. For gamers or those seeking faster response times, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Mahjong could be more appealing due to its quicker actuation. However, for users who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses, the Canglan V2's 3.5 mm travel may provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for response speed versus key depth.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is characterized by its thocky linear quality, producing a deep and satisfying sound signature that many enthusiasts find appealing. This deeper sound allows for a more immersive typing experience, especially appreciated by those who enjoy a tactile aural feedback from their switches. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong switches offer a lively, poppy sound that tends to be more neutral and moderate in volume. The neutral profile of the Mahjong switches makes them versatile for various environments, whether used in a quiet office setting or at home, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 switch provides a smooth and light typing experience, designed to create a seamless key travel that many users find very pleasant. This combination of weight and smoothness can lead to a consistently enjoyable typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch boasts a bouncy quality, providing a spring-like feedback that gives a noticeable rebound effect upon pressing. Additionally, the Mahjong switches are noted for their mild feel, which offers a gentle typing experience, combining both a smooth finish and a polished touch. This results in a well-rounded feel that is approachable for any user, whether they are new to mechanical keyboards or seasoned veterans.
Overall, both switches exhibit unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Canglan V2 stands out with its deep sound and smooth feel, ideal for those who appreciate a more immersive experience, while the Mahjong switches offer a lively sound and dynamic feel that makes typing feel energetic and fun. If you are looking for sound and feel that can satisfy a broad range of uses, you will find that each switch has its own strengths and can produce similar pleasant typing experiences based on personal preference. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a deeper sound and smoother feel or a bouncier and livelier typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use cases. If you prefer a smooth, lightweight typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an exceptional option, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate a deep auditory response and a light actuation feel at just 48 grams. This makes it ideal for gaming or extended typing sessions where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more lively and bouncy feel, the Mahjong switches deliver a unique typing experience characterized by their poppy sound and elastic feedback, which can be particularly enjoyable for casual use and fast typing. The Mahjong's polished finish also contributes to a refined and smooth key travel experience that can appeal to users of all skill levels. Therefore, consider what aspects of typing or gaming matter most to you: the Canglan V2 excels in satisfying sound and lightweight feel, while the Mahjong shines in providing a bouncy and approachable touch, making it suitable for diverse applications, whether at home or in the office.
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