HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options that often come up are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Brown. The Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, providing a satisfyingly deep sound signature along with a smooth and light keystroke that many typists and gamers find enjoyable. Its innovative design, characterized by meticulously crafted materials and advanced molding techniques, attracts enthusiasts seeking a premium typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile feedback that many users appreciate for typing and general productivity, allowing for a distinct bump with each keypress without the loud click of a traditional mechanical switch. This makes the Brown switch appealing for those who seek both responsiveness and a bit of auditory satisfaction in a quieter environment. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different preferences and use cases; however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Brown switches utilize fundamentally different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Canglan V2 employs a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deep and rounded sound. This is attributed to nylon's relatively soft texture, which absorbs sound waves better than harder plastics. Consequently, typing on the Canglan V2 can be characterized by a muted acoustic experience that can be more pleasant for users who prefer softer sounds during their typing sessions. Conversely, the Outemu Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity allows for greater sound resonance, resulting in a more pronounced acoustic experience. This difference in housing materials sets the two switches apart in terms of auditory feedback.
While the top housings of the Canglan V2 and Outemu Brown are different, their bottom housings share a common material: nylon. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which lends a consistent foundation to their sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing specifically creates a fuller and deeper sound when bottoming out. By incorporating the same material for the bottom housing, both switches ensure that the depth of sound remains similar during tactile interaction, regardless of the differences in their top profiles. This shared nylon composition means that the bottom-out sound will resonate similarly for both switches, providing a satisfying auditory experience whether you’re using the Canglan V2 or the Outemu Brown.
Overall, the unique combination of top and bottom housing materials for each switch is essential in shaping the overall typing experience. By having a nylon top in the Canglan V2, users can expect a deep and warm sound when pressing keys, while the polycarbonate top of the Outemu Brown will add a sharpness that distinctively caters to those who enjoy a brighter soundscape. Despite the different top housings, the use of nylon in both bottom housings serves to unify the overall acoustic experience when typing, ensuring users can still appreciate similar depth and richness when bottoming out. This interplay highlights the importance of both housing materials in delivering a satisfying and tailored typing experience for different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those seeking a comfortable typing experience during long sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel in their keystrokes. This difference indicates that anyone opting for the Canglan V2 will likely experience a softer touch, while those selecting the Brown switch will feel a firmer resistance, which can create a more pronounced tactile feedback. Thus, if you are looking for a lighter, more effortless typing experience, the Canglan V2 might be your best bet, whereas the Outemu Brown offers a heftier feel for those who appreciate a stronger keypress.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Brown switch, lending itself to a more responsive feel that many gamers might prefer. Conversely, the Brown switch, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke, providing a more tactile depth to their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for response time versus keystroke feel.
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 Brown 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 comparing the sound profile of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, the distinctions are clear. The Canglan V2 is renowned for its thocky sound, which enthusiasts have come to crave. This deep sound signature results from its carefully engineered materials and molding techniques, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switches typically produce a more moderate sound, characteristic of tactile switches but not as pronounced as the Canglan V2's thocky resonance. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound experience can depend significantly on the keyboard chassis and the choice of keycaps, which can further modify the audible effects of either switch.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 offers a smooth and light experience, making it appealing for users who prefer a gentle touch while typing or gaming. Its linear design allows for swift actuation without tactile bumps, promoting uninterrupted keystrokes that many find pleasurable. The Outemu Brown switch, on the other hand, features a tactile bump, providing a noticeable feedback point during actuation. This tactile response is designed to enhance typing accuracy by allowing the user to feel when the key has been pressed, which can be particularly useful for typists familiar with tactile switches. While both provide distinct experiences, the smoothness of the Canglan V2 starkly contrasts with the interactive feeling of the tactile bump found in the Brown switches.
Overall, if you're seeking a deep, thocky sound and a smooth feel, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is your go-to option, capturing the refined auditory and tactile qualities that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts desire. On the flip side, if you value tactile feedback with a more moderate sound profile, the Outemu Brown switch will serve you well. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference; you'll enjoy satisfying results with either, depending on whether sound quality or tactile feedback matters more to you.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience, with a satisfying deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option, especially for fast typists and gamers who may benefit from its low actuation force of 48 grams. The thocky sound profile can also enhance your overall typing satisfaction, making it particularly appealing if you're sensitive to auditory feedback and enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile feedback that helps you to feel each keypress, the Outemu Brown switch may be better suited to your needs. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a reassuring resistance that many find comfortable for typing tasks, particularly in long writing sessions where the tactile bump can assist in reducing typing fatigue. Therefore, assess your typing style, the kind of feedback you enjoy, and the importance of sound in your mechanical keyboard experience to make the best choice between these two switches.
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