HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options stand out: the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, providing users with a smooth and light keystroke that enhances typing speed and reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a more seamless experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a tactile switch that offers distinct feedback with each keystroke, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying "bump" sensation that can improve typing accuracy and enhance the tactile experience. While both switches cater to different preferences—those who value smoothness versus those who appreciate tactile feedback—there are unique characteristics to consider in making your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
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
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 Dustproof Purple switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, influencing the acoustic profiles they produce when typed on. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer nature, which results in a deeper, fuller sound. This material inherently absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Dustproof Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. Polycarbonate is recognized for its ability to resonate with clarity, a quality particularly enhanced when the switch is clear, making it an ideal choice for RGB lighting effects. Therefore, while both switches can evoke engaging sounds, the nature of their top materials shapes how they communicate—one with warmth and richness, and the other with brightness and intensity.
Looking toward the bottom housings of the switches, the Canglan V2 and the Dustproof Purple share a similarity; both employ nylon for their bottom housings. The use of this material ensures that both switches deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile overall, as the softer properties of nylon absorb sound and create a rounder auditory experience. In this case, the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out feel and sound of each switch, enhancing the user experience by providing a consistent auditory foundation, regardless of the differing top materials. Thus, if a user enjoys the deeper sound and feel that nylon can provide, both switch variations afford that quality at the base level.
Ultimately, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Purple leads to nuanced but contrasting sound experiences. While the bottom housing presence of nylon in both switches guarantees a full-bodied auditory effect, the disparity in top housing materials results in varied sound characteristics. The Canglan V2's nylon top contributes to a softer sound signature, whereas the Dustproof Purple's polycarbonate top creates a brighter attack. This interplay suggests that users seeking a tailored typing experience can select between the warm embrace of nylon and the crispness of polycarbonate, while still enjoying the familiar depth provided by nylon in the bottom housing of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Canglan V2 features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial and resistant feel when typing. Ultimately, while the Canglan V2 is lighter, the Dustproof Purple offers a medium-heavy experience. This distinction highlights the diverse preferences among users, allowing them to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Canglan V2 is the shorter of the two, making it a more suitable choice for gamers who seek quicker response times and a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience with a greater sense of depth and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: if you prefer the snappier action of a shorter travel distance, the Canglan V2 will meet your needs, while the Dustproof Purple would be better for those who favor a deeper keystroke.
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 Dustproof Purple 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 linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly deep and thocky acoustic profile, which resonates well with enthusiasts who appreciate rich auditory feedback from their keyboards. This sound quality can be attributed to its carefully crafted design and improved molding techniques, making it stand out among its peers. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch does not have a clearly defined sound profile provided, making it difficult to compare directly to the Canglan V2. However, it can be noted that the overall sound experience can be influenced significantly by the keyboard’s construction, choice of materials, and keycaps used, which means that users might achieve a satisfactory sound with the Outemu switch in a suitable setup.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Canglan V2 shines with a smooth and light action that enhances typing speed and reduces finger fatigue over prolonged use. This quality makes it a preferred choice for users who enjoy linear switches and their seamless keypress experience. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple is not detailed, leaving uncertainty around its performance. Typically, tactile switches like the Dustproof Purple aim to provide a bump at actuation, which can offer a different tactile feedback experience compared to the smoothness of the Canglan V2. Therefore, users who seek a tactile sensation might find the Outemu switch appealing, although the specifics of its feel remain unmentioned.
Overall, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch impresses with its deep sound profile and smooth light feel, making it a strong choice for those who favor linear switches with auditory satisfaction. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch offers an unknown yet potentially unique tactile experience, though its sound characteristics are similarly unspecified. Enthusiasts may choose Canglan V2 for its desirability in both sound and feel, while the Dustproof Purple could cater to those seeking a different tactile approach. Ultimately, preference will guide choices based on the qualities that best match individual typing or gaming experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and how you intend to use your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, linear feel, the Canglan V2 would be an excellent choice, especially for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions where you want to minimize finger fatigue. The deep, thocky sound signature of the Canglan V2 adds an auditory satisfaction that many enthusiasts appreciate, making it perfect for those who enjoy a quiet yet pronounced keystroke experience. On the other hand, if you like a bit of tactile feedback to enhance your typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is ideal for a more deliberate and precise feel. With its medium-heavy actuation force, you’ll feel a noticeable bump on each keystroke that can help with typing accuracy, particularly if you're doing a lot of writing or coding. Ultimately, your decision should align with what feel and sound signature resonate with your typing style, whether it leans towards smooth linearity or tactile feedback.
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