HMX Canglan V2 vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two intriguing linear options stand out: the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink. The Canglan V2 is revered for its thocky sound profile and a satisfying blend of materials that ensures a smooth typing experience with a light feel, enticing enthusiasts who appreciate both auditory and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Sakura Pink switches are celebrated for their feather-light actuation force of just 35g, catering to those who favor an effortless typing experience reminiscent of gliding. While the Canglan V2 provides a deeper tone with characteristics that appeal to those seeking a richer auditory sensation, the Sakura Pink adds a playful element with its poppy sound, making typing downright enjoyable. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique charms, but 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
35g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
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 Everglide Sakura Pink, it is evident that both switches utilize distinct plastics, leading to differing auditory experiences. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic can be attributed to nylon's softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound and produce a duller resonance. In contrast, the Sakura Pink uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference is due to polycarbonate being stiffer, which enables it to create a more clear and resonant auditory experience. Consequently, while both switches offer unique soundscapes, the Canglan V2 leans toward a warmer tone, while the Sakura Pink delivers a brighter, more dynamic note when typing.
Both switches also display contrasting materials in their bottom housings, further influencing the overall typing experience. The Canglan V2's nylon bottom housing continues the trend of producing a deeper, rounder sound profile, echoing the characteristics of its top housing. In contrast, the Sakura Pink, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, generates a sharper sound that resonates clearly. This means that when bottoming out during key presses, the Canglan V2 will provide a plush impact, whereas the Sakura Pink will create a more pronounced and defined sound check. Therefore, the materials in the bottom housings not only affect the auditory signature of each switch but also modify the tactile feedback users experience during everyday use.
Together, the materials used in the top and bottom housings create a multi-faceted interaction when typing. The distinct qualities of the Canglan V2 and the Sakura Pink will manifest differently according to their material composition. In instances where users may desire a warm, muted sound, the Canglan V2 would be preferable, while those seeking a bright and vibrant auditory feedback would likely favor the Sakura Pink. Overall, while neither switch can replicate the other's sound profile precisely, their individual combinations of nylon and polycarbonate—when summed together—allow for a rich diversity of tactile and sonic experiences, aside from potential similarities in key response and actuation feel, fulfilling different user preferences based on sound and typing dynamics.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch both feature light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for long typing sessions or prolonged gaming. The Canglan V2 has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Sakura Pink is lighter with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura Pink switch requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Canglan V2, offering an even lighter touch for users who prefer less resistance. While both switches provide a smooth typing experience, the Canglan V2 will deliver a slightly firmer tactile feedback due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, which might appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Sakura Pink is the lighter option, while the Canglan V2 offers a heavier, more pronounced feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option, while the Sakura Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional and offers a deeper feel. As a result, users who favor a more responsive typing experience might prefer the Canglan V2 due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke and tactile feedback may find the Sakura Pink to be more satisfying with its longer travel distance. Thus, choosing between these switches largely depends on personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature, which creates a rich auditory experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. This quality stands in contrast to the Everglide Sakura Pink switch, which produces a more muted and subdued sound profile. The Sakura Pink’s quieter characteristics make it less intrusive, allowing for a more subtle auditory presence during typing sessions. While both switches offer distinct sound experiences, the Canglan V2 appeals to those who enjoy a robust sound, while the Sakura Pink caters to those who prefer a quieter keyboard that still delivers enjoyment through its playful pop-like sounds.
In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is noted for its smooth and light keystroke, creating an enjoyable typing experience that sets it apart within the HMX lineup. Conversely, the Sakura Pink switches offer a notably buttery and creamy sensation, providing a seamless, almost luxurious typing experience. These switches require an impressively light touch for actuation, resulting in an easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during extensive use. The frictionless operation of the Sakura Pink ensures that key presses are effortless, making it ideal for those who type delicately. While both switches provide smooth, pleasing sensations, the Canglan V2 leans slightly more towards a traditional linear experience, while the Sakura Pink enhances the light and airy feel that is often favored by more gentle typists.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Canglan V2 and Everglide Sakura Pink switches excel in their respective niches, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Canglan V2’s thocky acoustics and smooth light tension offer a satisfying auditory and tactile experience for enthusiasts who enjoy a richer sound. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink's muted sound and feather-light actuation create a playful and effortless typing experience that appeals to those who favor a quieter setup. Choosing between these two will ultimately depend on individual priorities, whether it be the depth of sound or the ease of keystrokes, but both switches promise to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches, consider your typing style and sound preferences. If you appreciate a deeper, thocky sound profile and a smooth, light overall feel, the Canglan V2 might be your best choice. Its 48-gram bottom-out force provides just the right amount of resistance, making it suitable for those who enjoy a balance between tactile feedback and a fluid typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally light touch with minimal actuation force and a playful, muted sound reminiscent of bubble wrap, the Sakura Pink is likely the ideal switch for you. With a mere 35-gram actuation force, these switches are perfect for delicate typists seeking a buttery, frictionless experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards an engaging auditory experience combined with comfortable resistance or a feather-light touch that almost floats beneath your fingers.