HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Cream Blue

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct experiences tailored to different types of users. The HMX Canglan V2 is a linear switch that has garnered attention for its "thocky" sound profile and smooth, light keystrokes, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer a quieter and more fluid typing experience without tactile feedback. Its meticulously crafted design enhances both performance and auditory satisfaction, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a premium feel. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch that caters to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response accompanied by an audible click, providing a satisfying feedback loop that many typists find rewarding for productivity and gaming alike. While the Canglan V2 excels in delivering a refined and subtle typing experience, the Cream Blue captures the joy of each keystroke with its characteristic sound and feel. 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

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which results in a similar acoustic profile and tactile experience. Nylon as a material is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing, benefiting from its relatively softer plastic composition. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, thus creating a more rounded and duller auditory experience. As a result, both switches are likely to provide comparable audio characteristics, delivering a satisfying sound that enhances the overall typing experience.

Additionally, since both the Canglan V2 and Cream Blue switches have nylon in both the top and bottom housings, any differences in their performance or sound signature will be minimal. Given that both designs share the same material properties, users can expect similar tactile feedback and bottom-out sounds when pressing the keys. The nylon's inherent qualities ensure that whether the key is being pressed down or released, the auditory effects will remain consistent across both switches, further enriching the usage experience regardless of the specific model.

However, it's essential to consider the aspect of how each housing interacts during keypresses. Although both the Canglan V2 and the Cream Blue utilize nylon, the overall typing experience might still vary based on specific design elements or internal mechanics. For instance, if one switch design features a different spring mechanism or stem profile, it could influence how the switches feel despite having the same housing material. Nonetheless, the core advantage of using nylon in both cases will lead to an inherently similar sound profile and tactile experience, making either option an appealing choice for enthusiasts looking for satisfying keystrokes.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying preferences in typing feel. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it easy to press and ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Cream Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a significantly greater bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter option with a smoother feel, the Canglan V2 is the way to go, whereas those who enjoy a firmer push and pronounced keypress feedback might favor the Cream Blue switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different typing preferences. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the Cream Blue features a standard travel distance of 4 mm. The short travel distance of the Canglan V2 aligns with the preferences of gamers seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Cream Blue, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced feel that many typists might prefer for a deeper typing experience. This distinction makes the Canglan V2 ideal for those who favor responsiveness, whereas the Cream Blue caters to users who enjoy a more traditional and satisfying key press depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch produces a rich, thocky tone that enthusiasts have come to appreciate, delivering a satisfying audio experience with each keystroke. This deep sound signature is complemented by the switch's design, which minimizes rattling and promotes a solid auditory feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not explicitly described, but clicky switches typically produce a sharp and distinct audible click at the actuation point, which can offer a more pronounced and satisfying sound for those who prefer tactile feedback in their typing experience. Therefore, while the Canglan V2 provides a smooth, thocky sound, the Cream Blue likely offers a sharper click that caters to different auditory preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is characterized by a smooth and light operation, making for an effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. This blend of comfort and smoothness could make it an attractive choice for typing enthusiasts looking for a linear switch. Conversely, the Cream Blue switch, known for its clicky nature, would typically provide a tactile bump and audible feedback at the actuation point. This feature adds a level of resistance that many users find gratifying but may not feel as light or smooth as the Canglan V2. As a result, the two switches cater to distinctly different typing preferences, with the Canglan V2 appealing to those who enjoy linear switches and the Cream Blue catering to users who thrive on tactile feedback.

In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch excels in providing a deep, thocky sound and a smooth, light feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate linear typing experiences. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is likely to offer a sharp clicking sound coupled with a tactile feel that can enhance typing satisfaction for users who prefer distinct feedback during each keystroke. While the two switches serve different niches within the mechanical keyboard community, both can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal audio and tactile preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a light touch with a smooth and thocky feel, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option. Its 48-gram bottom-out force means less effort is required to press the keys, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, gaming, or if you simply enjoy rapid keystrokes without a tactile bump or loud click. Additionally, its deep sound profile adds a satisfying audio experience without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch and don't mind a heavier bottom-out force, the Cream Blue might be more to your liking. With its 65-gram actuation force, it provides more resistance, which some typists find helps lessen accidental key presses. Furthermore, the clicky sound signature offers an audible confirmation of each keystroke, which can be particularly gratifying for users who appreciate a more classic typing experience reminiscent of vintage typewriters. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in typing feel and sound, as well as the context in which you'll use your keyboard most frequently.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more