HMX Canglan V2 vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference, particularly between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, both of which are linear switches but offer distinct experiences. The HMX Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound profile, delivering a rich acoustic experience that many enthusiasts have long desired. Its smooth, light feel complements the deep sound signature, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the usual distractions of noisy clicks. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches carve out their own niche with a notably brighter and clackier characteristic, providing a lively and engaging typing experience through vibrant auditory feedback and effortless actuation. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the Canglan V2 offers a more subdued and refined sensation, while the Salt Ice boasts an energetic feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Jerrzi Salt Ice Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Canglan V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches utilize different materials for their housing that significantly influence their sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs vibrations. This results in a more muted acoustic experience, making it preferable for users who enjoy a subdued typing sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces sharper and crisper sounds. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity of the key presses, appealing to users who favor a brighter auditory feedback when typing or gaming. Thus, the fundamental difference in acoustics between the two switches arises primarily from the choice of housing material.

Similar contrasts can be found in the bottom housing of both switches, which also affects their overall sound and feel. The Canglan V2 has a nylon bottom housing that aligns with its top housing, further reinforcing the deeper sound profile characteristic of nylon materials. This combination ensures that the impact felt while typing remains consistent, contributing to a rounded sound quality upon bottoming out. Conversely, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes a clear and resonant sound, providing a high-pitched feedback that can be exhilarating for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience. Here, the distinct properties of both nylon and polycarbonate are at play, resulting in unique acoustic outputs and tactile sensations during interaction.

Ultimately, while the Canglan V2 and Salt Ice switches exhibit notable differences in their housing materials and resultant sound profiles, users can achieve similar typing experiences depending on their individual preferences. For those who prefer a balanced sound with a softer touch, the Canglan V2 offers a harmonious solution through its nylon constructions. Conversely, the Salt Ice caters to those who seek a more dynamic and vibrant keystroke response with its polycarbonate housing. Both switches, despite their material contrasts, fulfill their roles effectively in different contexts—whether for casual typing or competitive gaming—making them well-suited to a variety of user needs and environments.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it can reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Salt Ice has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feel while typing. However, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unknown, meaning we cannot directly compare it to the Canglan V2's bottom out force of 48 grams. Since the Canglan V2 is consistently lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a softer typing experience, whereas the Salt Ice, with its heavier actuation force, may offer a more substantial feel for users who favor that typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there is a slight difference that may influence user preference. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the longer option, while the Salt Ice measures 3.4 mm, thus being the shorter switch. This 0.1 mm difference may not seem substantial, but it can affect the feel of the switch during use. Gamers who favor quicker response times may lean toward the Salt Ice due to its shorter travel distance, which can provide a more responsive typing experience. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial key feel might prefer the Canglan V2 for its slightly deeper travel. In summary, while both switches offer a relatively similar experience, the Canglan V2 caters more to users seeking depth, whereas the Salt Ice serves those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is highly regarded for its deep and thocky sound signature, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who enjoy a more resonant auditory experience while typing. This sound is a result of careful material selection and improved molding techniques, which contribute to a richer acoustic environment. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch boasts exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, offering a more vibrant sound that promotes a lively feel during use. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference.

When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is noted for its smooth and light actuation, providing a seamless typing experience that many find enjoyable for long typing sessions or gaming. This thoughtful design allows the user to maintain a comfortable level of engagement without needing excessive force. In contrast, the Salt Ice switch also features a light touch, but pairs it with vibrant feedback that varies the user experience, creating an energetic and responsive sensation. The differences in their feel stem from their unique designs, catering to varying preferences between smooth typists and those who prefer a more tactile response.

In conclusion, the HMX Canglan V2 and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches both offer appealing qualities, but they diverge significantly in sound and feel. The Canglan V2 excels in delivering a deep, thocky sound and a smooth actuation, whereas the Salt Ice emphasizes a bright, clacky sound with vibrant feedback. Choosing between the two will largely depend on whether you lean towards a more resonant auditory experience or prefer a lively, energetic typing sensation. As you explore mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that these differences can significantly affect your overall typing enjoyment.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experiences you seek from your keyboard. If you appreciate a thocky sound profile and a noticeably smooth typing experience, then the Canglan V2, with its light 48 grams bottom-out force, is likely the ideal choice for you. This switch provides a satisfying, deep acoustic signature that enhances your tactile sense and feels effortless while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more energetic and responsive feel, the Salt Ice switch may be the better option. With its engaging clacky characteristics and light actuation, it offers a vibrant typing experience that can be exhilarating, especially for fast-paced usage. In essence, if you lean towards a deeper sound and a smooth, consistent feel, go for the Canglan V2. However, if you value bright feedback and a lively, responsive typing sensation, the Salt Ice switches will not disappoint. Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your personal preferences in sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Jerrzi Salt Ice Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more