HMX Canglan V2 vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Piano are two standout linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound and light touch, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more resonant feedback as they type. This switch utilizes a carefully engineered blend of materials and advanced molding techniques to deliver a uniquely satisfying auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, Durock's Piano switches shine with their proprietary material composition that offers a smooth, gliding feel and a soft, creamy sound profile; ideal for users who prioritize comfort and a frictionless typing experience. While both switches are linear, they encapsulate distinct qualities that cater to varying styles and needs in keyboard use. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Piano switches showcase distinct characteristics that influence their overall sound profiles and typing experiences. The Canglan V2 features a traditional nylon housing, both in the top and bottom components. This nylon is known for its softer texture, which absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio experience while typing. The inherent qualities of nylon allow it to produce a duller and rounder sound, making it an ideal choice for users looking for a muted auditory response during their typing sessions. Contrastingly, the Durock Piano employs a proprietary blend of POM for both its top and bottom housings. While specific details of this blend remain undisclosed, it is recognized for offering a “uniquely satisfying” sound profile, which suggests that it also aims to provide a full auditory experience, albeit potentially with a different tonal quality than nylon.
While both switches utilize different materials for their housings, the interplay between the top and bottom housings can yield similar results in terms of sound profile. The Canglan V2’s nylon top contributes to the softer sound when releasing a key, mainly influencing the sound upon keyup, while its nylon bottom enhances the bottom-out feel and sound during keypress. On the other hand, the Piano’s POM bottom might alter the bottom-out feel slightly, but the top housing is integral to the sound produced when releasing the keys. Hence, each switch type will have its unique voice, shaped by the distinct materials used, yet both may still achieve a rich and deep sound profile due to their design philosophy focusing on sound absorption and quality.
Moreover, the differences in materials may not solely dictate the sound characteristics but also impact user experience with each switch. The softness of nylon in the Canglan V2 fosters a particularly plush typing sensation that many users find appealing for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the POM blend in the Durock Piano may provide a different tactile feedback that can enhance the overall key feel and satisfaction as users type. Ultimately, while they may utilize different materials, both switches are designed with the intention of delivering an engaging and immersive typing experience, leading to a satisfying performance for typists who prioritize both sound and feel in their keyboard choices.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Canglan V2 features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less force to register a keypress. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch has an undisclosed actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which lends itself to a more substantial, tactile typing experience. This heavier weight may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a firmer push feel. Overall, the Canglan V2 is lighter, providing a gentler touch, while the Piano is heavier, catering to those who favor a stronger resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Piano boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you choose the Canglan V2, you'll experience a shorter actuation distance, which can enhance responsiveness and speed during gaming or fast typing scenarios. Conversely, the Durock Piano's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel under your fingers, which some users may find preferable for a more satisfactory typing experience. Therefore, if you prioritize rapid response times, the Canglan V2 would be the better choice; however, if you prefer a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the Piano would suit you better.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 offers a satisfyingly deep sound signature, described as a "thocky" experience that resonates well during key presses. Users often appreciate its robust acoustics, which can evoke a sense of satisfaction with each tap. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch features a notably bassy sound profile, producing a deep and creamy tone that enhances the typing experience. While both switches deliver rich auditory feedback, the Canglan V2's thockiness contrasts slightly with the creamy bassiness of the Piano, giving each switch its unique character, yet both provide enjoyable and rewarding auditory sensations.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 switch is characterized by its smooth and light operation, making it easy to type quickly and comfortably without excessive resistance. This allows for a pleasant typing experience that flows naturally. Meanwhile, the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Users will find that the Piano’s fluid travel complements its sound profile beautifully. Though the Canglan V2 has a lightness, the Piano elevates the typing experience with its luxurious smoothness, making both switches appealing but distinct in their tactile offerings.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Piano linear switches present unique options for enthusiasts looking for different sound and feel qualities. The Canglan V2 excels with its deep thocky tones and light, enjoyable touch, while the Piano offers a creamy, bassy resonance alongside an incredibly smooth typing experience. Ultimately, if you’re in search of a rich auditory experience with distinct tactile feedback, either switch can provide an outstanding typing experience, and your choice may simply depend on your personal preference for sound or feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and overall typing feel play a crucial role. If you lean towards a lighter actuation force and enjoy a deep, thocky sound, the Canglan V2 would be an excellent choice for your typing or gaming needs, especially if you prioritize comfort during extended sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile response with slightly heavier actuation, the Durock Piano switch could be the better option, as its medium-heavy feel provides more resistance, which some users find satisfying. Additionally, the Piano's creamy, frictionless typing experience offers a unique glide that appeals to those who appreciate smoothness in their keystrokes. In essence, your choice ultimately depends on whether you desire the light and thocky feel of the Canglan V2 or the rich, deep sound and silky smoothness of the Durock Piano.
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