HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Silent Green are two intriguing options that exemplify the variety available in linear switches. The HMX Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and smooth, light keystroke, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts who appreciate both auditory feedback and a comfortable typing experience. Its meticulously crafted materials and advanced molding techniques contribute to a thrilling tactile sensation that elevates gaming and typing sessions alike. On the other hand, while the Outemu Silent Green lacks a distinct reputation, it offers a quiet, linear action that is perfect for those who prioritize a serene working environment or shared spaces, reducing noise without compromising performance. With both switches catering to different preferences, the choice ultimately depends on what you seek in a mechanical keyboard experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Silent Green switches, it is evident that they utilize different plastics for their top and bottom housings, which ultimately affect their acoustic profiles. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its softer and more sound-absorbent properties. This results in a deeper, fuller sound that many typists appreciate for a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green employs polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, a material recognized for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This contrast means that while the Canglan V2 offers a warm typing sound, the Silent Green presents crisper acoustics.
Despite these differences, there are similarities in how the hybrid nature of each switch’s design can achieve certain auditory and tactile outcomes. For instance, although the Canglan V2's nylon material absorbs sound, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound, leading to a round yet satisfying feedback during typing. The Silent Green's polycarbonate, on the other hand, directly contributes to a bright, clear auditory feedback that's more prominent when keys are released. If both switches were to feature a similar architecture where one had a nylon top and a polycarbonate bottom housing or vice versa, each would blend characteristics from both materials, offering typists a kaleidoscope of auditory experiences that cater to personal preferences.
Aesthetically, the differences between nylon and polycarbonate are also noteworthy. The polycarbonate of the Silent Green switch tends to be more translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, giving a vivid illumination when backlighting is employed. Conversely, the nylon used in the Canglan V2 is less likely to support such lighting features, focusing instead on providing robust tactile feedback with a more understated visual presence. When enthusiasts seek out keyboards with specific sound profiles, they should consider these characteristics; the tactile and acoustic results will vary based on the choice of housing materials, guiding their selection towards a switch that best aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option optimal for extended typing sessions, whether at work or during long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a more pronounced bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Consequently, the Canglan V2 is the lighter switch overall, appealing to users seeking less fatigue during prolonged use, while the heavier Silent Green switch caters to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option that allows for quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers looking for efficiency in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Silent Green has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, adhering more closely to the traditional travel distance standard and offering a deeper keystroke that some users may find more satisfying and robust. Ultimately, if speed and responsiveness are your priorities, the Canglan V2 would be the better choice; however, if you prefer a more pronounced typing experience, the Silent Green would serve you well. Thus, the Canglan V2 is the shorter option, while the Silent Green is the longer one.
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 Silent Green 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
The HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its uniquely deep and satisfying sound profile, often referred to as "thocky." This distinct auditory experience is achieved through a well-thought-out combination of materials and advanced molding techniques, resulting in a sound that resonates richly with users. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green switch's sound qualities remain unspecified, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound is influenced by a number of factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the Canglan V2 switch offers a smooth and light feel, enabling quick and effortless key presses that many typists and gamers find appealing. The specific characteristics of the Silent Green's feel have not been detailed, leaving a gap in comparing their tactile feedback. Generally, linear switches emphasize smoothness without the bump of tactile or clicky switches, so it could be surmised that the Silent Green offers a similarly smooth experience, though the exact nuances remain unclear.
In conclusion, the HMX Canglan V2 stands out for its thocky sound and light, smooth feel, catering to enthusiasts looking for both auditory pleasure and a pleasing typing experience. The Outemu Silent Green's sound profile is unknown, and while its feel is not explicitly detailed, it is reasonable to expect a smooth operation typical of linear switches. Ultimately, both switches may lead to enjoyable typing results, particularly if sound and feel align with personal preferences in different setups.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your mechanical keyboard. If you appreciate a lighter touch and a satisfying ‘thocky’ sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice, particularly for lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons where you might favor quicker actuation and less finger fatigue. Its meticulously crafted feel and deep sound make it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback without excessive tactile resistance. Conversely, if you prefer a firmer feel and require a more muted experience—perhaps for a shared workspace or late-night gaming—the Outemu Silent Green would be more suitable. With a higher actuation force and a design that minimizes noise, it allows you to type more quietly while still providing the responsiveness you need. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you value lightness and sound or firmness and silence in your keyboard experience.
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