HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming needs, two popular options to consider are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown. The Canglan V2 impresses with its thocky linear action, delivering a wonderfully smooth keypress and a satisfying deep sound signature that HMX enthusiasts rave about. The meticulous blend of materials and improved molding techniques result in a light feel that can enhance both typing comfort and gaming performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point, offering tactile feedback that many find appealing, especially for typists who enjoy the sensation of each keypress. While the Canglan V2 caters to those seeking a smooth and silent experience, the Dustproof Brown appeals to users looking for a more engaged and responsive feel when typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches, the most notable distinction lies in the top housing. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, characterized by its softer plastic composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing sessions. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic signature. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material that produces a sharper and crisper sound when the keys are pressed, offering a more distinct audio experience — particularly advantageous for those who appreciate clarity in their keystrokes. This contrasting choice of top housing material fundamentally influences the auditory feedback and overall typing experience provided by each switch.

Interestingly, the bottom housing of both the Canglan V2 and the Dustproof Brown switches is made of nylon. This similarity means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will exhibit a comparable depth and fullness of sound when bottomed out. As nylon is known for its sound absorption properties, the impact of the bottom housing on the acoustic profile will render a consistent experience for users, leading to a duller and rounder sound when keys are fully pressed. This shared characteristic in their bottom housings helps merge the auditory feel for both switches during that critical bottom-out moment, despite the variations in the top housing materials.

In terms of user experience, the differences in material composition between the Canglan V2 and the Dustproof Brown hinges on the interaction between their respective top and bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistency in depth of sound upon bottoming out, while the divergent top materials create varying signature sounds at key release. This means that while the Canglan V2 may produce a warmer and fuller auditory experience from both key presses and releases, the Dustproof Brown is likely to stand out with its crisper, higher-pitched feedback when releasing the keys. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials not only affects the sound profile but also plays a significant role in the tactile aspects of typing, allowing users to select switches that align with their preferences for both acoustics and feel.

Weight

The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch exhibit distinct differences in their 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 suitable choice for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and an even more substantial bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who appreciate a firmer typing feel and a more pronounced feedback when bottoming out. As a result, users who gravitate towards lighter switches for comfort and extended use should consider the Canglan V2, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may find the Dustproof Brown to be a better fit.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, we find that the Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This indicates that the Canglan V2 offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to users who prefer faster response times, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown, with its greater depth, caters to those who enjoy a more substantial feel during typing, which could enhance the tactile experience for some users. Therefore, selecting between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key travel, with the Canglan V2 providing a snappier response, while the Dustproof Brown delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is noted for its satisfyingly deep sound signature, which is a result of its meticulously crafted materials and improved molding techniques. This thocky quality resonates pleasantly during typing, providing an auditory experience that many enthusiasts have been yearning for. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have specific sound characteristics noted, but it is essential to remember that the overall sound produced by a switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard’s construction, including the choice of board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 boasts a smooth and light typing experience that contributes to its appeal among users who prefer linear switches. This allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for rapid typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is a tactile switch, which typically provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point. This distinction offers a different typing sensation, catering to users who enjoy feedback and a more pronounced response with each keypress.

Overall, while the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch cater to different preferences, each has distinct qualities that appeal to various user needs. The Canglan V2 delivers a deeper sound with a smooth feel for those seeking a linear experience, whereas the Dustproof Brown offers tactile feedback for a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your typing style and the experience you wish to achieve. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth keystroke that produces a satisfying thocky sound, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing. Its 48-gram bottom-out force offers an effortless experience, making it perfect for those who engage in long typing sessions or seek a responsive feel without the tactile bump. On the other hand, if you enjoy the feedback of a tactile switch and don’t mind a bit more resistance, the 65-gram bottom-out force of the Dustproof Brown will cater to that preference. This switch is ideal for typists who like to feel confirmation with each keystroke, making it suited for both typing and general use. Ultimately, your selection will hinge on whether you value smoothness and a lighter touch or prefer a more tactile experience with additional resistance.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more