HMX Canglan V2 vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Mamba stand out as two exceptional linear options that cater to different user preferences. The Canglan V2 has garnered a dedicated following for its thocky sound signature and light, smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a deeper auditory feedback while typing. Its advanced materials and meticulous molding techniques enhance the overall experience, offering a delightful tactile sensation that many HMX enthusiasts seek. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant with its creamy auditory feedback and gliding typing sensation, appealing to users who prefer a neutral yet polished linear switch that promotes effortless typing. Each switch brings its own unique characteristics to the table, which can significantly influence your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Mamba, there are notable differences in the top housing that influence the overall typing experience. The Canglan V2 utilizes a traditional nylon material for its top housing, which is celebrated for its capacity to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is softer, allowing it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, users of the Canglan V2 can expect a more rounded, subdued auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Durock Mamba features a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. This unique combination offers a slightly brighter sound profile, providing a playful contrast to the Canglan V2’s more muted response. Therefore, while both switches achieve pleasant sounds, the Mamba introduces a brighter note that may appeal to typists who prefer a sharper auditory signature.
Turning to the bottom housing, the differences become even more pronounced as the Canglan V2 also employs nylon, whereas the Mamba opts for POM material. The nylon bottom housing in the Canglan V2 embodies the same properties as its top counterpart, resulting in a harmonious sound – deeper and rounder, which aligns with the acoustics of the top. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Mamba produces a unique sound profile that is described as deeper and relatively muted. This divergence in materials contributes to a distinct feel during key presses and releases. For typists, the Mamba's POM may provide a slightly different feedback sensation, making the sound produced when bottoming out less sharp than that of the Canglan V2. However, both switches are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with varying acoustic characteristics.
Despite these differences, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Mamba can produce pleasing sound profiles. The interaction between the different materials in each switch allows for a split of auditory qualities between the top and bottom housings. For the Canglan V2, both nylon housings work synergistically to create a unified sound experience, while in the Mamba, the contrast between the nylon top and POM bottom may yield a more complex auditory profile. Ultimately, if a typist values a smoother and rounder sound, they might lean towards the Canglan V2, but if they desire a more dynamic auditory experience enriched by brighter notes, the Durock Mamba could be a better fit. Regardless of choice, both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing feel, influenced by the meticulous selection of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 boasts a light actuation force of 42 grams, requiring less effort to trigger a keystroke, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience during extended sessions. Its bottom out force is measured at 48 grams, which, while still being light, does indicate a slight increase in resistance when bottoming out. In contrast, the Durock Mamba has an unspecified actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare that aspect; however, its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 60 grams. This heavier bottom out force presents a more substantial feel, appealing to those who appreciate a stronger push while typing or gaming. Overall, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, promoting longer typing comfort, while the Mamba offers a heavier experience for those who prefer more resistance in their key presses.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar feel and feedback during typing or gaming. With both switches sharing this travel distance, users can expect equivalent performance in terms of key actuation depth, making either choice suitable for those who prefer a consistent linear switch experience.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience reminiscent of a soft "knock" upon actuation. This rich sound quality is attributed to its carefully crafted materials and improved molding techniques, setting it apart in terms of acoustic appeal among HMX enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch offers a more neutral sound profile, characterized by a creamy auditory experience that adds a layer of richness to keystrokes. The Mamba’s thocky nature also aligns well with the Canglan V2; however, its neutral baseline makes it highly versatile, allowing it to cater well to users in various environments, be it at home or in an office setting.
When considering feel, the Canglan V2 boasts a smooth, light typing experience that is exceptionally approachable for users seeking a linear switch. This gentle touch hints at a user-friendly design aimed at providing comfort during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Mamba switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish enhances the overall tactile experience, making the Mamba pleasant to use while remaining accessible to a broad range of typists. Both switches thus cater to users who appreciate a fluid touch, though the Mamba leans slightly more towards a middle-ground experience compared to the Canglan V2’s uniquely tailored feel.
In conclusion, while the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Mamba linear switches have distinct sound and feel qualities, both deliver satisfying auditory experiences and smooth typing sensations. The Canglan V2 shines with its deep thockiness and light touch, ideal for enthusiasts, while the Mamba provides a neutral yet rich sound combined with a mild and polished feel, making it suited for both casual and serious typists. Ultimately, regardless of individual preferences, each switch presents a worthy choice for those exploring the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Mamba linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you crave a light touch with a satisfying thocky sound, the Canglan V2 may be your go-to. Its 48-gram bottom-out force is perfect for those who enjoy effortless key presses, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where speed and comfort matter. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance and a nuanced, polished typing experience, the Durock Mamba could be the better option for you, thanks to its 60-gram bottom-out force that provides a balanced feel. The Mamba's creamy auditory quality and mild typing sensation offer a versatile choice that can suit both casual typing and focused work environments. Therefore, if you lean toward a more pronounced tactile experience with a rich sound profile, the Canglan V2 would stand out, while the Mamba excels in its smoothness and neutrality, making it a fantastic all-rounder.
Mentioned in this article
