HMX Canglan V2 vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Akko Rosewood are two linear switches that cater to enthusiasts seeking distinct tactile experiences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, offering a smooth and light action paired with a deep, resonant sound profile thanks to its advanced crafting and molding techniques. This makes it a fantastic choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback without the fuss of modifications. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch also excels in delivering a rich thocky sound right out of the box, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that contributes to its smooth performance. While both switches are linear and provide a pleasurable typing experience, the choice largely depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Canglan V2 and Akko Rosewood keyboards both utilize nylon for their housing materials, a decision that benefits them in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The nylon top and bottom housings of both models contribute to a deeper, fuller sound when typing. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, mitigating any harshness and resulting in a more pleasant auditory experience. This similarity in materials means that users can expect a comparable acoustical profile from both keyboards, leading to a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many in the mechanical keyboard community.

While the housing materials are identical in both the Canglan V2 and the Rosewood, the specifics of switch feel can still vary based on other factors, such as switch design and spring tension. The shared nylon construction means they will both deliver the same benefits regarding sound absorption, but the overall typing experience can be influenced by aspects like how each switch is designed and any additional elements such as lubrication or housing tolerances. Therefore, while the sound quality remains consistently rich across both models, the tactile feedback could differ slightly depending on those other design nuances.

Understanding how each housing contributes to the typing experience is essential for appreciating these keyboards. The bottom housing, whether nylon in the Canglan V2 or Rosewood, primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses, while the top housing mainly influences the sound that occurs when releasing keys. Since both keyboards employ identical nylon materials for both the top and bottom housings, users can anticipate similar auditory results overall. However, they may still notice differences in texture or spring tension from the switches themselves, providing each keyboard with its unique character despite the similarity in housing materials.

Weight

The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both feature relatively light force specifications, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. The Canglan V2 has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Rosewood comes in slightly lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Rosewood switch is marginally easier to actuate, but the Canglan V2 has a more moderate resistance at the bottom out point. Overall, users looking for a lighter typing experience might prefer the Akko Rosewood, while those who appreciate a bit more resistance when bottoming out might opt for the HMX Canglan V2. Both switches provide distinct yet enjoyable tactile experiences for different user preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, we find distinct differences. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Rosewood has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Canglan V2 the shorter option, ideal for those seeking rapid response times, which is particularly appealing to gamers. On the other hand, the Rosewood, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper keypress that some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. As a result, users who prefer a more responsive feel may gravitate toward the Canglan V2, while those seeking a traditional typing experience with more depth might opt for the Rosewood switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Canglan V2 switch impresses with its deep and resonant sound signature, often characterized as a thocky delight that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its meticulously crafted blend of materials enhances the auditory experience, providing a full-bodied sound with each keystroke. Comparatively, the Akko Rosewood switch also delivers a similarly deep and satisfying thock, largely due to its factory-applied lubricant which contributes to a smooth acoustic profile. Both switches favor a rich sound that enhances typing enjoyment, but nuances in each switch's construction, combined with factors like keyboard design and keycap choices, may slightly alter the overall audio experience.

In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 features a smooth and light actuation, which allows for effortless typing and gaming sessions. This combination is designed for comfort, making it ideal for extended use without fatigue. The Rosewood switch, while also linear, offers a luxurious typing experience attributed to its lube application that results in a slick and responsive feel. Although both switches share a linear feel, the slight variations in weight and actuation may lead to a distinctive tactile experience, making them appealing to different users based on personal preference.

In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Akko Rosewood switches provide a remarkable typing experience characterized by their deep thocky sounds and smooth linear feels. While they excel in similar qualities, subtle differences in material composition and design can influence individual preferences. A newcomer is likely to enjoy either option, as both switches promise satisfying performance, but personal testing may reveal which switch resonates more with their unique typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you lean towards a lighter key press and appreciate a deeper, thocky sound profile, the Canglan V2 makes for an excellent choice with its 48-gram bottom-out force and smooth actuation. Its meticulously crafted blend of materials ensures that you experience a delightfully thocky resonance that is likely to enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier press at 50 grams and still want that satisfying thocky sound, the Rosewood switch could be your go-to option. Known for its factory-applied lubricant, the Rosewood delivers a smooth typing experience right out of the box while still producing that rich, deep sound signature. Ultimately, consider the subtle differences in actuation force and the sound profiles, along with how they align with your own typing style and environment, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more