HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the distinct qualities of linear and tactile options to find the best fit for their typing style and preferences. The HMX Canglan V2, a linear switch, is celebrated for its silky smoothness and deep, thocky sound profile, providing a weightless typing experience that many users crave for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a tactile feedback that appeals to those who appreciate a bit of resistance—its mild tactility, combined with a rich, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a sharp top-out, can make each keystroke feel more engaging and responsive. Each switch embodies unique characteristics catering to different user experiences; whether you favor the smooth, undemanding action of the Canglan V2 or the tactile feedback of the Red Panda for a more pronounced keystroke, your choice can greatly influence your typing satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Red Panda, one of the most noticeable differences lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon, a well-established material in switch construction recognized for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows the nylon top housing to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Red Panda employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The clear transparency of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity of sound but also offers aesthetic advantages for RGB lighting setups, making it ideal for visually striking keyboards.
On the other hand, both switches share an identical material for their bottom housings: nylon. This similarity in material ensures that, irrespective of the differences in the top housings, both switches will likely deliver comparable sound characteristics related to the bottom-out experience when a key is pressed. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile, absorbing higher frequencies and generating a more rounded sound signature for both switches. As a result, while the Canglan V2's nylon top dampens sound for a more muted soundscape, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a consistent foundation of deep and rich acoustics.
Ultimately, the combination of these varying housing materials results in two distinct but somewhat complementary typing experiences. The Canglan V2 offers a blended sound with the nylon top housing contributing to its deeper sound signature, while the Outemu Red Panda's polycarbonate top leads to a brighter, more resonant sound. However, since both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, users can still expect to enjoy a certain level of acoustic uniformity in their keypresses. Whether one prefers the rounder characteristics of nylon or the sharper qualities of polycarbonate reveals a personal preference that ultimately shapes the choice between the two switches.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent option for those who prefer prolonged typing sessions or long gaming marathons without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a stronger resistance when typing. This makes the Red Panda a better choice for those who seek a firmer push experience. Overall, the Canglan V2 appeals to users looking for a lighter switch, while the Red Panda caters to those who prefer a heavier feel, emphasizing the importance of personal preference in switch selection.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the Canglan V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. This difference makes the Outemu Red Panda the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to the reduced distance that keys must travel. On the other hand, the Canglan V2, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, while both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, the Canglan V2 caters to those who prefer a deeper, more traditional feel, whereas the Outemu Red Panda is suited for users who favor quicker and more responsive keystrokes.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Outemu Red Panda switches deliver a thocky auditory experience, characterized by their deep and rich tones. The Canglan V2 produces a low-pitched sound that is often described as bass-heavy, creating a satisfying thud when pressed. This tonality can evoke a sense of depth and richness, making each keypress feel substantial. Similarly, the Red Panda’s sound profile features a bassier bottom-out sound, akin to raindrops, paired with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While both emphasize a thocky quality, the Canglan V2 leans more towards a mellow, deep sound, whereas the Red Panda incorporates a wider range of sounds due to its higher-pitched top-out.
When it comes to feel, the distinctions between the two switches become more pronounced. The Canglan V2 offers an exceptionally smooth and light typing experience, described as silky and feathery. This quality minimizes resistance and provides a bouncy sensation, allowing for a comfortable and effortless typing experience that is ideal for extended sessions. In contrast, the Red Panda presents a mild typing feel, characterized by a moderate amount of tactility. This feature offers a more gentle typing experience, making it accessible to a broader audience. While the Canglan V2 invites a lively and dynamic touch, the Red Panda ensures a consistent, approachable feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Outemu Red Panda switches excel in delivering satisfying auditory and tactile experiences, though they cater to different preferences. The Canglan V2 stands out with its deep, thocky sound and ultra-smooth feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a premium experience. Conversely, the Red Panda balances tactility and sound, providing a more moderate yet engaging typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on whether you prioritize a plush, silky feel and deep audio or a more balanced tactile feedback with varied sound dynamics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a smooth, feathery feel that minimizes finger fatigue, the Canglan V2 will be your ideal choice, especially for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Its thocky and low-pitched sound signature further enhances the experience, making it a satisfying option for those who appreciate a deep audio feedback without any tactile interruption. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile experience with a moderate resistance and enjoy the subtle feedback of a tactile bump, the Red Panda is an excellent alternative. Its combination of a bassy bottom-out sound and a mild feel offers a balanced experience that can appeal to both casual typists and gamers alike. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you seek an ultra-smooth experience or an engaging tactile response, making each switch uniquely suited to different preferences.
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