HMX Canglan V2 vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2 present two compelling choices for enthusiasts, each offering unique characteristics tailored to enhance typing experience. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, producing a rich, deep sound signature that many users find immensely satisfying. Crafted with advanced materials and improved molding techniques, it provides a smooth and light typing experience, ideal for those who relish both tactile feedback and auditory pleasure. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 takes a different approach by eliminating the rubber dampener found in its predecessor, resulting in a crisper, more responsive typing experience while maintaining the renowned frictionless glide that has become synonymous with the North Pole lineup. This switch is designed for users who appreciate a polished, creamy feel without any obstructions. Ultimately, your choice might come down to whether you prefer the thocky sound of the Canglan V2 or the airy responsiveness of the New North Pole V2. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Gateron New North Pole V2, a significant distinction lays in the choice of plastics used for the top and bottom housings. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to its notably deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, engendering a sharper and crisper sound profile. This stiffer material enhances clarity and resonance, making the sound more pronounced. Therefore, while both switches serve the purpose of tactile feedback and sound during typing, their sound profiles diverge greatly due to the different characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate.

Aesthetically, the housing materials also show contrasting features that may influence user preferences. The transparent nature of polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2 allows for vivid RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for users who prioritize illumination in their keyboard setup. In comparison, the nylon housing of the Canglan V2, while not translucent, offers a more muted visual appeal but compensates with its acoustic qualities. Users may prefer the deeper tones of the Canglan V2 when auditory experience is paramount, while others might veer towards the visually dynamic New North Pole V2. This difference in aesthetic function can influence not only the appeal of the switches but also the particular sensibilities of typing enthusiasts.

Moreover, tuning and manipulating sound profiles can yield comparable results even when the materials differ. For instance, a user could potentially modify the sound signature of either switch through additional dampening materials, thus mitigating the audio differences inherent in nylon and polycarbonate. For those who appreciate a specific acoustic experience, it’s possible to customize their keyboards to emphasize or soften certain sound qualities, blurring the line between switches. Therefore, while the Canglan V2 and New North Pole V2 are distinct in their material choices and sound profiles, the adaptability of keyboard enthusiasts allows for creative freedom, enabling them to achieve a tailored typing experience regardless of the original housing composition.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct typing experiences. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer minimal resistance during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 requires a stronger push with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Consequently, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, while the New North Pole V2 is the heavier switch. Users seeking a more effortless typing experience should gravitate towards the Canglan V2, whereas those desiring a firmer tactile feedback might prefer the New North Pole V2.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option that appeals to users seeking quicker response times, especially beneficial for gamers who appreciate the efficiency of reduced key travel. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional key feel that many users might prefer for a more nuanced typing experience. Therefore, while both switches are designed to enhance performance, those who favor speed may gravitate towards the Canglan V2, whereas individuals who appreciate a deeper, more substantial feel might choose the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance: shorter for responsiveness or longer for a more organic typing sensation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch boasts a satisfyingly deep and thocky sound signature that enthusiasts love, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a more resonant auditory feedback while typing. The sound is notably enhanced by its carefully engineered materials and molding techniques, which contribute to a pleasurable auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch produces a crisper typing sound due to the absence of the rubber dampener found in its predecessor. This change allows for a more pronounced acoustic response, giving every keystroke a sharper, more defined sound, which some users might prefer for its clarity. Ultimately, both switches cater to different auditory preferences—thocky versus crisp—but they both promise satisfying sound profiles, heavily influenced by the choice of board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is celebrated for its smooth and light action, offering a delightful typing experience characterized by a gentle tactile response that enhances comfort during long typing sessions. The blend of materials utilized in the switch construction further ensures a consistently enjoyable feel. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 excels in delivering a frictionless typing experience, which results in an incredibly smooth glide as your fingers move effortlessly across the keys. The polished, creamy sensation of these switches complements the fluidity of the typing experience, making for a sleek and enjoyable interaction. While both switches emphasize smoothness, the Canglan V2 leans towards a lighter feel, whereas the New North Pole V2 promotes a seamless friction reduction.

In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 and Gateron New North Pole V2 switches each present unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored for different preferences. The Canglan V2 excels in providing a deep, thocky sound with a smooth and light feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. Meanwhile, the New North Pole V2 offers a crisp sound profile and an exceptionally frictionless typing feel, attracting users who prioritize a polished, effortless keystroke. While both switches allow for a satisfying typing experience, the choice ultimately comes down to individual taste in sound and feel, making it essential for newcomers to try each switch to find their personal favorite.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter key feel with a deeper, more resonant sound signature, the Canglan V2 is likely the better fit for you. Its 48-gram bottom-out force means less effort is required with each keystroke, making it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Additionally, the thocky sound it produces adds a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, if you favor a sturdier typing experience with a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, the New North Pole V2 is a solid choice. With its polished and creamy feel, combined with a frictionless action, it can deliver a sleek and responsive typing experience that many users love. Its crisper feedback, thanks to the absence of a rubber dampener, is perfect for those who want a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, consider not just the force and feel, but also the sound you enjoy, to decide which switch aligns best with your typing habits and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more