HMX Canglan V2 vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of different options to suit their typing preferences. The HMX Canglan V2, a linear switch, is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and silky smooth keypress, making it an ideal choice for users who favor an unobtrusive yet deeply satisfying auditory and tactile experience. Its light and feathery action is perfect for rapid typing, providing a bouncy feel that many gamers and typists appreciate. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo offers a more subtle and nuanced approach with its gentle tactile bump, designed to deliver feedback without overpowering the user. With a medium-light typing feel and a subdued sound signature, the Mallo becomes a versatile companion for both work and leisure, appealing particularly to those who appreciate a well-balanced typing experience. While the Canglan V2 thrives in its expressive linearity, the Mallo captures attention through its refined tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When evaluating the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Mallo, significant differences and notable similarities emerge. The Canglan V2 features a top housing made of nylon, a material celebrated for its softness, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound, creating a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Mallo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer characteristics. This rigidity allows for a sharper and more resonant sound profile, yielding higher-pitched responses. Aesthetic considerations also differ, as polycarbonate’s translucency can elevate the visual appeal of RGB lighting integration when compared to the more muted appearance of nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Canglan V2 and Mallo opt for nylon, reinforcing the softer and more absorbent qualities that contribute to a deeper sound profile upon key bottoming out. This shared material helps maintain consistency in user experience for those switches, providing a cohesive auditory sensation when the key is fully pressed. Regardless of the top housing's differences, the nylon bottom housing will ensure that the overall sound signature remains rich and full. Users of the Mallo can expect a blend of crispness from the polycarbonate top while still benefiting from the enhanced softness of the nylon bottom during typing.
Ultimately, while the Canglan V2 and KTT Mallo employ different materials for their top housing, their bottom housings align, demonstrating complementary sound profiles. The clear distinction in the auditory qualities produced by the top housings means that users will experience different sound dynamics when pressed. However, the nylon bottom found in both switches contributes similarly to the overall feel and sound consistency upon bottoming out. This fusion of materials ensures that, despite the variance in sound characteristics, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience by balancing the auditory effects of their respective housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences among users. The Canglan V2 features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Mallo switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light, but lacks a specified actuation force. This suggests that, while the Mallo may require a heavier overall force at bottoming out, the exact effort needed for actuation remains unknown. Consequently, we can infer that the Canglan V2 is the lighter switch overall, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch, while the Mallo's heavier bottom out force could attract users seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Mallo tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Mallo, which adheres more closely to the traditional 4 mm standard. A shorter travel distance like that of the Canglan V2 caters to users seeking faster response times, making it an appealing option for gamers who prioritize quick action. On the other hand, the Mallo's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper keystroke and may find shorter distances too abrupt. Thus, the primary distinction between these two switches lies in their travel distances, with the Canglan V2 being the shorter option and the Mallo the longer one.
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 Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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 presents a distinctly thocky and low-pitched profile, delivering a rich, deep sound that many enthusiasts find satisfying. This switch's pronounced sound signature evokes a sense of a "thud" upon keypress, making it an engaging auditory experience for typists who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Mallo features a more subdued sound, characterized by its dampened auditory feedback which doesn’t clash with noise in a shared environment. The Mallo's neutral sound profile allows it to blend seamlessly into various settings, making it suitable for users seeking a quieter operation.
When considering feel, the Canglan V2 excels with its silky, feathery, and bouncy characteristics, resulting in a smooth and lively typing experience. This combination enhances comfort during extended usage, significantly minimizing finger fatigue due to its lightweight actuation force. The Mallo, while also featuring a feathery touch, leans towards a more mild and subtle profile. Its stepped tactile feedback offers just enough sensation to provide assurance without overwhelming the typist, marking it as a very approachable choice for both casual and serious users.
In conclusion, both switches cater to specific preferences, making them appealing options within their respective categories. The Canglan V2 is favored for those who enjoy a deep sound and a lively typing feel, while the KTT Mallo embraces a gentler, more versatile experience with its muted sound and subtle feedback. Ultimately, users will find that selecting between these switches hinges on personal preference for sound and typing feel, with each offering a unique experience that caters to different environments or uses.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard. If you value a very smooth, light, and thocky typing experience, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force and deep sound signature make it particularly suitable for gamers or those who type extensively, as it reduces finger fatigue and provides a delightful auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback while typing without overwhelming sensations, the KTT Mallo switch would serve you well. Its medium-light feel, gentle tactility, and subdued sound profile make it versatile enough for shared environments and extended typing sessions, striking a nice balance between comfort and feedback. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a smooth linear experience or a subtle tactile feel will guide your decision.
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