HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Canglan V2, praised for its thocky linear feel, offers a smooth, light touch that many enthusiasts crave. With its expertly crafted materials and innovative molding techniques, it not only provides a satisfying auditory experience but also minimizes finger fatigue, making it a top choice for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue stands out with its gratifyingly clicky feedback, ideal for users who enjoy an audible confirmation with every keystroke. This distinct sound enhances the typing experience, often favored by writers and programmers who appreciate tactile sensations. While both switches cater to different preferences—one focused on smoothness and sound depth, and the other on tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction—just remember that your choice should align with your personal typing style and usage needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and Outemu Blue, it's clear that the top housings set the switches apart distinctly. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic profile. This characteristic creates a softer typing experience, making it appealing to users who prefer a more muted sound when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Blue employs a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Its stiffer composition enhances the clarity and resonance of the keystrokes, creating a more pronounced acoustic response. Thus, while both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, the auditory qualities are notably different due to the choice of top housing material used in each switch.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Blue will share similar acoustic properties when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller profile regardless of the differences in their top housings. This similarity ensures that users will experience a consistent bottom-out feel and sound when using both switches, making their performance in tactile feedback and sound dampening akin to one another. It creates an interesting juxtaposition where the top housing establishes distinct auditory experiences while the bottom housing maintains a shared character.
Ultimately, the interaction between the differing top and the similar bottom housings exemplifies how materials can influence the overall typing experience. The Canglan V2's softer nylon top absorbs sound, which enhances its muted sound profile, while the Blue's sharper polycarbonate top sharpens the acoustics, providing a lively, resonant feedback. However, due to the nylon bottom housings' shared material, both switches will maintain a consistent and satisfying bottom-out response, even if their top housings create different expressive dynamics. Together, this interplay suggests that both switches offer unique experiences tailored to individual preferences, allowing typists to choose according to their sound and feel ideals.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, distinct differences emerge. The Canglan V2 features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. Conversely, the Outemu Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, suggesting a heavier typing experience, though its bottom out force remains unknown. This implies that while both switches may feel different under the fingers, the Canglan V2 would be more comfortable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a less strenuous touch, whereas the heavier Outemu Blue may appeal more to those seeking a more substantial keypress force. Overall, the Canglan V2 provides a gentler resistance for users, while the Outemu Blue demands more effort to actuate a keystroke, aligning it with preferences for a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights their contrasting designs and intended user experience. The shorter travel distance of the Canglan V2 can provide a more responsive feel, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Conversely, the Outemu Blue, with its deeper 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to typists or those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences; if you favor a snappier feel, the Canglan V2 could be the better option, whereas those who appreciate a more traditional depth might prefer the Outemu Blue.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky acoustics, which create a satisfying audio experience that many enthusiasts find gratifying. This sound signature enhances the sensory feedback while typing, making it feel more engaging and immersive. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch provides a distinctly clicky sound, known for its sharp and pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. The clicky sound of the Blue switch is often favored by typists who enjoy auditory cues as they type, allowing for a more interactive typing experience. However, it's important to note that the overall sound will also depend on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which can significantly influence the character of each switch.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is designed to offer a smooth and light typing experience, contributing to an effortless actuation that many users find comfortable for long typing sessions. This linear design means that there is no tactile bump or click, allowing for a fluid keystroke that can enhance speed and reduce finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch provides a distinctly different typing feel, characterized by a tactile bump followed by an audible click that gives a sense of satisfaction and confirmation of each keypress. Users often appreciate this feedback, as it helps them know when a keystroke has been successfully registered, making it an appealing choice for those who value tactile and audible cues.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 and Outemu Blue switches present two distinct experiences tailored for different preferences. The Canglan V2 offers a deep thocky sound and a smooth, light feel, appealing to users who appreciate a linear switch without the distraction of clicks. Meanwhile, the Outemu Blue is known for its sharp, clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy pronounced auditory and tactile confirmation while typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will play a pivotal role. If you’re seeking a smooth and undistracted typing experience with a light actuation force, the Canglan V2 is your best bet. Its thocky sound profile and buttery smooth key feel make it ideal for those who appreciate a luxurious touch without the tactile feedback. This switch is particularly well-suited for long typing sessions and gaming, as it helps reduce finger fatigue while providing a satisfying acoustic response. On the other hand, if you thrive on auditory feedback and enjoy the experience of hearing each keystroke, the Outemu Blue clicky switch will suit you perfectly. Its distinctive clicky sound and tactile feel can make typing feel more engaging and fun, appealing especially to those who type in shorter bursts or prefer a more pronounced response with each key press. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you value quiet smoothness over tactile sound; it's about finding the switch that resonates with your typing style and enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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