HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. The HMX Canglan V2 switch is renowned for its thocky linear feel, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a deep sound signature accompanied by a smooth and light touch. Its carefully engineered materials and advanced molding techniques make it a standout option for those seeking a refined auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) presents itself as an excellent budget-friendly alternative, featuring a buttery smooth keystroke complemented by a low-pitched “thock.” This switch is ideal for users who desire a seamless tactile experience without breaking the bank. While both switches offer distinct advantages, choosing between the two ultimately depends on your individual typing preferences and budget considerations. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
Both the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components of the switches. This commonality means that both switches will deliver a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller acoustic response. The nylon's softer composition allows for sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller but richer sound. As a result, users can expect a generally consistent auditory experience when using either switch, thus facilitating a seamless transition for those switching between the two, as both react similarly to keystrokes.
When examining the tactile qualities of the switches, the nylon material impacts both the bottom-out sound felt when pressing down on a key and the acoustic feedback produced upon key release. Although both switches share the same material, it's important to note that the nuances of sound and feel may still differ based on their respective designs. For example, while the nylon housing will provide a consistent acoustical depth and fullness, additional switch characteristics like spring tension, actuation point, and overall design may introduce subtle differences in performance. This means that, while the sound profile may be similar, the overall typing experience can vary, benefiting from the unique specifications of each model.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both crafted from nylon, ensuring they produce similar auditory qualities. However, the interplay of their complete designs—including internal components like springs and other constructions—will lead to unique tactile experiences despite sharing the same housing material. This confluence of material and design ensures that both users and enthusiasts have compelling choices when selecting their preferred switch, maintaining an enjoyable typing experience rooted in the well-regarded properties of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can observe distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, compared to the Milky Red Pro's actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Canglan V2 is 48 grams, which is also lighter than the Milky Red Pro's bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that not only does the Canglan V2 require less force to trigger a keypress, but it also feels less forceful when bottoming out. Consequently, for those who favor a lighter feel for prolonged typing sessions, the Canglan V2 may be the better choice, while the Milky Red Pro's slightly heavier feel might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a shorter distance, which may appeal to gamers or users looking for quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can enhance performance in fast-paced environments. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro, with its longer 4.0 mm travel distance, could be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper, more pronounced keystroke that offers a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, if you're seeking speed and responsiveness, the Canglan V2 would be the better choice, whereas the Milky Red Pro would be ideal for users who appreciate a more tactile depth in their keystrokes.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 produces a satisfyingly deep sound signature that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a thocky acoustic profile. It excels in delivering a rich, full-bodied tone that captures attention during key presses, making it particularly pleasing to those who appreciate a more profound auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) also aims to provide a satisfying auditory experience but leans more towards a buttery smoothness characterized by a low-pitched thock. This switch emits a deeper, mellower sound than higher-pitched variants, creating an inviting atmosphere for typists. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, with the Canglan V2 focusing on a richer and more robust thock, while the Milky Red Pro offers a softer yet still enjoyable acoustic profile.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is recognized for its light and smooth action, providing a pleasant tactile experience that ensures ease of typing over extended periods. However, the specific details about its overall feel are less emphasized compared to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), which is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes. This makes the Milky Red Pro a fantastic option for those new to mechanical keyboards, as it delivers a seamless and uniform typing experience. While both switches provide smooth feedback, the Canglan V2's lighter and more effervescent feel sets it apart, catering to different preferences among users.
In conclusion, both switches cater to distinct auditory and tactile preferences. The HMX Canglan V2 is ideal for those seeking a deeper, thocky sound with a light feel, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) excels in providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a softer, low-pitched audio profile. As a newcomer, you can anticipate satisfying results from either switch, depending on whether you prioritize a more profound thock or a silky smooth keystroke when typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switches should be guided by your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 48 grams and appreciate a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Canglan V2 is likely the better option for you. This switch excels in providing a satisfying tactile experience that combines a smooth keystroke with a rich auditory feedback, making it a delightful choice for enthusiasts looking for a unique blend of performance and sound aesthetics. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 52 grams and enjoy buttery smooth keystrokes coupled with a low-pitched, bassy output, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be ideal. This switch is particularly appealing if you are budget-conscious but still want a reliable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what you value most in your typing experience: a more nuanced sound and feel with the Canglan V2 or the smooth, effortless performance of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
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