HMX Canglan V2 vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options for enthusiasts are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Ragdoll, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance typing experiences. The Canglan V2 stands out with its thocky sound profile and smooth, lightweight feel, crafted with a unique blend of materials and advanced molding techniques. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a satisfying auditory feedback coupled with a gentle touch, particularly beneficial for both gaming and long typing sessions. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll offers its own distinct advantages, featuring a Y3 stem that provides smooth travel across its keys and a nylon-fiberglass housing that contributes to a clacky sound—an appealing choice for users who favor a slightly more pronounced acoustics during their typing experience. While both switches cater to linear switch lovers, their unique characteristics may suit different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Y3
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Ragdoll switches share a commonality in utilizing nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of nylon as a housing material is significant as it is known to enhance the sound profile produced during typing. Specifically, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer characteristics. With both switches employing nylon, users can expect a similar auditory experience marked by a duller, rounder sound, whether they are typing quickly or engaging in more deliberate keystrokes.
The consistent use of nylon in both the Canglan V2 and the Ragdoll further highlights the advantages of this material in terms of sound absorption. This means that each switch is designed to minimize the harsher, sharper sound that can result from harder plastics, thus promoting a more pleasant typing experience overall. The processing of sound waves by nylon leads to a well-rounded acoustic profile that typists may find appealing, especially during extended periods of use. Due to this shared attribute, both switches effectively mitigate unwanted noise, making them well-suited for quieter environments or for types of users who prefer less auditory distraction.
While the top and bottom housings are identical in material for both switches, the impact they have on the overall experience is noteworthy. The engineering behind these switches allows the nylon bottom housing to influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the nylon top housing predominantly affects the sound released upon key release. Thus, even with identical materials, the interplay between the top and bottom housings produces a balanced auditory experience. Users can expect that both the Canglan V2 and the Ragdoll will deliver similar tactile and acoustic performance, making them potentially interchangeable options for those who prioritize sound quality and typing comfort.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom-out forces reveal distinct characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, along with a bottom-out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a less strenuous typing experience, perfect for long sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom-out force of 52 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This difference may appeal to users who prefer a firmer keystroke, providing a more substantial feel. Thus, while both switches offer relatively similar actuation and bottom-out forces, the Canglan V2 stands out as the lighter choice, while the Ragdoll switch leans towards a heavier option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ragdoll measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times due to its more responsive feel. In contrast, the Ragdoll's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and substantial depth for those who prefer a richer typing experience. Overall, the choice between these switches largely depends on personal preference—if you favor quick feedback and more rapid actuation, the Canglan V2 would be the better pick; however, if you enjoy a fuller activation depth, the Ragdoll would be ideal.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch offers a low-pitched, thocky profile that is both deep and satisfying, creating a rich auditory experience that's pleasing to the ear. This thocky sound results from its careful design and material selection, producing a substantial "thud" upon keypress and release. The auditory characteristics of the Canglan V2 make it ideal for users who appreciate a mellow, bass-heavy tone during their typing sessions. In contrast, although the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch features a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing intended to produce a clacky sound, specific details on its sound profile aren't provided, making it difficult to compare directly with the Canglan V2. Therefore, in terms of sound, if you prefer a pronounced thocky experience, the Canglan V2 is clearly distinguished, while the sound of the Ragdoll remains somewhat ambiguous.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 excels with descriptors such as silky, feathery, and bouncy. This combination offers an exceptionally smooth and light typing experience, catering to users who enjoy a lively feedback sensation with minimal resistance. The silky texture allows for effortless key presses, reducing finger fatigue, while the bouncy quality enhances the tactile feedback, creating an engaging typing experience that motivates prolonged use. On the other hand, the Ragdoll's feel is not specified, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares with the Canglan V2. For those who prioritize a seamless and comfortable typing experience, the Canglan V2 stands out with its defined qualities, while the feel of the Ragdoll remains a mystery.
In summary, the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch impresses with its deep, thocky sound and an exceptionally smooth, lightweight, and bouncy feel, making it a strong choice for enthusiasts seeking quality performance. In comparison, the BSUN Ragdoll linear switch’s sound characteristics are less defined, and its feel remains unknown, leaving it unclear how it affects the typing experience relative to the Canglan V2. Individuals looking for a specific performance quality will likely find the Canglan V2 meets their expectations, whereas choosing the Ragdoll may involve some uncertainty regarding its sound and feel. If you’re drawn to the qualities of the Canglan V2, you can expect a consistently satisfying performance in both sound and typing sensation, while the Ragdoll may not offer that same assurance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, your choice ultimately hinges on your preferred typing experience and the activities you engage in most. If you value a light feel combined with a deep, thocky sound that enhances the auditory feedback of your typing, then the Canglan V2 is an excellent option. Its lightweight bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it particularly appealing for users who type for extended periods or seek a switch that minimizes finger fatigue, whether for gaming, work, or casual typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams and appreciate the clacky sound that can come from its nylon-fiberglass housing, the Bsun Ragdoll may be more to your liking. While it may not offer the same level of softness and smoothness as the Canglan V2, it delivers a smooth travel experience thanks to its Y3 stem, which can still provide a satisfying typing sensation. Therefore, consider your personal preferences, typing habits, and the overall acoustic experience you seek when making your decision between these two attractive linear switches.
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