HMX Canglan V2 vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often gravitate towards the characteristics that best align with their typing preferences and gaming styles. The HMX Canglan V2, celebrated for its thocky linear feel, provides a smooth and airy typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a quiet and uninterrupted keystroke. With its carefully engineered materials and molding techniques, this switch not only produces a satisfying deep sound but also ensures a light touch that enhances speed and fluidity during use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a tactile experience characterized by a pronounced bump, giving users tangible feedback with each keystroke. Developed in collaboration with keyboard aficionados, the MX Purple is tailored for those who prefer a more engaged typing experience, particularly beneficial for typing accuracy and gaming precision. Both switches cater to distinct preferences—whether you lean towards the stealthy smoothness of the Canglan V2 or the responsive feedback of the Cherry MX Purple RGB. 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
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
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
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Cherry MX Purple RGB both feature nylon as their primary housing material, making them quite similar in terms of construction and acoustic properties. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of these switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This sonic characteristic arises because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, has the ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches instill a duller and rounder auditory experience, which enhances the overall typing satisfaction for users who prefer a more muted sound profile.
While both the Canglan V2 and the MX Purple RGB use nylon for their complete housing, the way that this material influences the switches differs slightly based on the structure. In mechanical switches, the bottom housing plays a critical role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. Since both switches employ nylon, users can expect a consistent auditory experience throughout their typing, with the bottom housing contributing to a softer bottom-out sound that feels more cushioned, while the top housing reinforces this experience with its muted qualities when keys are released.
In terms of overall sound experience, the similarities in material composition across both the Canglan V2 and MX Purple RGB ensure that users will achieve comparable results in their typing experience. The effective sound absorption properties of nylon dominate both switches, leading to an acoustic profile that is consistent regardless of the specific switch brand. Consequently, whether opting for the Canglan V2 or the MX Purple RGB, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience characterized by comfort and a pleasant sound, primarily due to the shared choice of housing material.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation forces, with the Canglan V2 requiring only 42 grams to actuate compared to the 45 grams needed for the MX Purple RGB. This makes the Canglan V2 the lighter option, which may appeal to users seeking a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as during long workdays or gaming sessions. However, the bottom-out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unknown, making it difficult to compare it directly with the Canglan V2's bottom-out force of 48 grams. Given this, while both switches can provide a different tactile feel, the Canglan V2 offers a lighter actuation and a defined bottom-out force, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a lighter key feel, whereas the MX Purple RGB might cater to those who value a heavier, more substantial typing experience, depending on its bottom-out specifications.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The HMX Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB measures 4 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the shorter of the two switches, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times often favored by gamers. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB's longer travel distance of 4 mm may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback when pressing keys. Ultimately, your preference between the two will depend on whether you value speed or depth in your typing 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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is known for its thocky, deep sound signature, which many enthusiasts find satisfying and appealing, especially in a linear switch. This sound quality can enhance the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel more impactful. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is characterized by its refined, shorter thock and a distinctive tactile bump. While the sound of the MX Purple might not possess the same deep resonance as the Canglan V2, it offers a crisp auditory feedback that many users appreciate. It's important to note that the overall sound of each switch can vary significantly depending on the choice of keyboard plate and keycaps used, so these auditory experiences might be influenced by individual setups.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Canglan V2 provides a notably smooth and light typing experience, which caters to users who prefer effortless keystrokes without the resistance often found in tactile switches. The emphasis on a light touch can make it particularly suitable for long typing sessions. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is designed to deliver a short, medium-strength tactile bump that users can feel when a key is actuated. This tactile feedback can assist in typing accuracy and offer a tactile response that many typists and gamers enjoy. While the feel is quite different between the two, the Canglan V2's linear smoothness and the MX Purple’s tactile feedback are both appealing to their respective audiences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Canglan V2 excels in sound with its deep thock and offers a smooth feel, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more linear experience. Conversely, the MX Purple RGB provides a distinct tactile feedback and a crisp sound profile that caters to users who appreciate tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel; both can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth and light keystroke with a satisfying, deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent match, especially if you're an enthusiast seeking a thocky experience while gaming or typing. Its weight of 48 grams makes it easy to press, allowing for rapid typing without inducing excessive finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback that guides your fingers through typing, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its refined tactile bump, is a solid choice. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate the satisfaction of feeling when a key has been registered, adding a level of confidence to your keystrokes. Thus, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether you lean towards a deeper, smoother typing experience or a more tactile, expressive interaction—and make your decision accordingly for the best overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
