HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among users. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, providing a satisfying auditory experience due to its carefully engineered materials and advanced molding techniques. This switch not only delivers a deeper sound signature but also offers a smooth and light typing experience, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a premium feel and sound in their keystrokes. On the other hand, while the specifics of the Outemu Cream Pink may not be as widely known, it is designed to provide a reliable linear experience that many users find appealing for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. Both options have their merits, with the Canglan V2 leaning towards a more tactile auditory experience, while the Cream Pink may prioritize a smooth, reliable performance. 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
65g
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
Partial box
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 Outemu Cream Pink switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a choice that significantly impacts their acoustic properties. Nylon is widely recognized as a classic material in switch construction due to its unique ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a rounder sound profile, which is desirable for users looking for a less harsh typing experience. Since both switches share this material for their housings, they are likely to deliver similar sound characteristics, allowing users to enjoy a muted yet satisfying acoustic response when typing.
In addition to sound quality, the nylon construction of both the Canglan V2 and Cream Pink switches offers a certain tactile consistency. The characteristics of nylon result in a switch that feels smooth while still providing enough feedback to be responsive. This is especially noticeable during key presses, where the softer bottoms may absorb some of the shock, leading to a more controlled bottom-out feel. As the nylon design remains consistent across both switches, users familiar with one will find a similar tactile experience with the other, reinforcing the connection between the two models.
However, it is crucial to consider that while the material is the same, the performance of each switch may vary depending on other factors such as the spring mechanism and overall design nuances. If the top and bottom housings had differing materials, users would experience a more varied sound and feel based on which element dominates the typing experience. In this case, since both the Canglan V2 and Cream Pink are constructed from nylon throughout, users can expect similar acoustic and tactile results, ensuring a cohesive and satisfying typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch present contrasting experiences when it comes to 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 well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged use, such as at work or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cream Pink switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. Thus, if one were to compare the two, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, while the Cream Pink is the heavier switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on individual preferences regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cream Pink features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Cream Pink’s longer travel distance can provide a more substantial tactile experience, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, whether you prefer the shorter travel of the Canglan V2 for rapid actions or the deeper feel of the Cream Pink will depend on your personal typing and gaming preferences.
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 Cream Pink 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky auditory profile, which has been a highly anticipated feature among enthusiasts. This satisfying sound signature comes from a carefully engineered blend of materials and improved molding techniques that create a unique resonance when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have specific sound characteristics detailed, making it difficult to directly compare its auditory experience to the Canglan V2. However, it’s important to note that the sound you experience from any switch will also depend significantly on the keyboard's construction, the mounting style, and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 offers a smooth and light tactile sensation that enhances typing comfort and speed, making it particularly appealing for extended use. This refined action has won over many users who appreciate a linear switch that excels in both responsiveness and smoothness. The Cream Pink switch, meanwhile, lacks specific descriptions of its feel, which suggests that it may not have the same level of acclaim as the Canglan V2. As a result, while the specificities of the Cream Pink may remain unknown, it is reasonable to expect that its linear nature will provide a smoother typing experience, similar to that of the Canglan V2.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch stands out with its thocky sound and smooth light feel, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. The Cream Pink switch, while lacking detailed descriptions, is likely to provide a more standard linear feel. Although the auditory qualities of the Cream Pink remain less defined, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience consistent with the linear switch category. Should you find the sound and feel of the Canglan V2 to your liking, you may find a similarly enjoyable experience in the linear characteristics of the Cream Pink, albeit without the same depth in auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter key feel with a smooth and thocky sound profile, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its lower actuation force of 48 grams makes it ideal for fast typists and gamers who appreciate rapid keystrokes without too much resistance. Additionally, the deep sound signature adds a satisfying auditory experience, enhancing your overall typing enjoyment. On the other hand, if you favor a sturdier feel with a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, the Cream Pink may be more suited to your needs. This switch can provide a more deliberate typing experience, which some users find ideal for long typing sessions where muscle fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, whether you want the smooth, light feel of the Canglan V2 or the more pronounced resistance of the Cream Pink, both switches have their unique benefits, making them worthy contenders for your mechanical keyboard.