HMX Canglan V2 vs. Cherry MX Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often hinges on personal preferences and typing style. Two notable options are the HMX Canglan V2, a linear switch celebrated for its smooth and light feel, and the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch revered for its understated but satisfying feedback. The Canglan V2 introduces a "thocky" sound profile, thanks to its meticulously crafted materials and advanced molding techniques, making it ideal for those who prioritize a deep auditory experience and prefer a fluid keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown is all about subtlety, providing a gentle tactile bump that enhances typing without overwhelming the senses, along with a subdued audio signature perfect for quieter environments. Each switch offers distinct advantages: the Canglan V2 is excellent for those who enjoy a more immersive and sound-driven typing experience, while the MX Brown caters to users who appreciate a balanced blend of tactile feedback and noise reduction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Canglan V2 and Cherry MX Brown switches are both constructed with nylon for their top and bottom housings, which provides them with a distinctive acoustic profile and tactile experience. The nylon material in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, attributed to its softer plastic properties that absorb vibrations better than harder materials. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory experience while typing on either switch, where the sound profile is characterized as duller and rounder due to the nylon’s inherent acoustic dampening characteristics. This commonality in housing materials fosters a familiar typing sensation for enthusiasts who transition between the two switches.

While both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, the overall feel and sound experience may still vary due to other design elements. For example, while the nylon material dampens sound and offers a consistent acoustic performance, the differences may arise in the switch mechanism, actuation force, and tactile feedback that each switch design individually provides. The bottom housing plays a particularly essential role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, while the top housing contributes more significantly when releasing the key. Therefore, although both switches employ the same material, the overall typing experience may differ based on the specific engineering and design nuances inherent to each switch system.

This shared material and construction approach ensures that both the Canglan V2 and MX Brown will deliver a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Users can expect a consistent auditory response due to the nylon used in both housing components, which effectively dampens noise and creates a plush sound environment during use. Consequently, the familiarity and comfort that come from either switch’s design can make transitioning between the Canglan V2 and MX Brown seamless for typists. In essence, while the switches may have unique characteristics, the use of nylon in both provides a solid foundation for comparability, making them appealing options for users seeking quality in tactile switches.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Canglan V2 requires an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter and easier to activate compared to the MX Brown, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This difference suggests that users of the Canglan V2 may experience less fatigue during long typing sessions, potentially appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown's heavier forces provide a more substantial tactile feedback, which some users might favor for a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch for ease of use would opt for the Canglan V2, while those desiring a stronger push feel might gravitate towards the Cherry MX Brown.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it’s evident that the Canglan V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Cherry MX Brown features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Canglan V2 may feel more responsive and quicker to engage, making it a potentially favorable option for gamers or those who prefer a snappier key response. Conversely, the Cherry MX Brown's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced keypress experience, appealing to users who appreciate a greater depth in their typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly deep and thocky signature, designed to deliver an immersive auditory experience that many enthusiasts crave. This depth in sound is attributed to its meticulously crafted materials and improved molding techniques, providing a rich foundation for each key press. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a more subtle auditory feedback. These switches produce a bassy tone with a low-pitched sound, making them less intrusive and better suited for environments where noise might be a concern. While both switches aim to offer pleasurable sound, the Canglan V2 leans toward a more pronounced and resonant quality, while the MX Browns maintain a gentle, subdued profile.

When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 presents a smooth and light touch, allowing for a fluid typing experience without the resistance that can sometimes characterize other switches. This seamless interaction sets it apart from others in the HMX line, providing users a very inviting tactile experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their gentle tactility, providing a textured sensation that can introduce some friction when pressed. This tactile feedback is subtle yet perceptible, allowing for a unique interaction that some users greatly appreciate. Ultimately, the Canglan V2 emphasizes smoothness, while the MX Brown focuses on a balance between texture and ease of use.

In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Cherry MX Brown offer distinct experiences rooted in their sound and feel. The Canglan V2 is lauded for its deep, thocky sound and smooth, light touch, making it a favorite for those who prioritize an immersive auditory experience with seamless key presses. Conversely, the MX Browns provide a more restrained sound profile with a tactile sensation that offers mild feedback during typing. While they cater to different preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results depending on what the user desires: pronounced auditory feedback or a more subtle interaction. The choice ultimately lies in your priorities for sound and feel within your typing experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light, smooth typing experience combined with a satisfying thocky sound, then the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its lower bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it ideal for rapid keystrokes and extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. This switch is particularly well-suited for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and a deep auditory feedback that enhances the overall experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback that lets you know when a key has been actuated without going overboard, the Cherry MX Brown is designed for you. With its 55 grams bottom-out force and gentle tactile bumps, it delivers a balanced typing experience that can accommodate both typing and gaming. The Cherry MX Brown’s subdued audio feedback and textured feel cater to users who might find constant linear keystrokes less engaging. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you want to interact with your keyboard; whether you lean towards the smoothness and sound of the Canglan V2 or the tactile nuances of the MX Brown will determine which switch better suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more