HMX Canglan V2 vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference can make all the difference in your typing experience, and two popular linear options—the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon—illustrate this diversity beautifully. The HMX Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and smooth, light feel, enhanced by superior material blends and molding techniques, which create a deep auditory experience that many enthusiasts crave. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offers a different flavor of linear switch, characterized by its progressive spring and unique dry-lube design that ensures a buttery smooth typing experience, with a low-pitched and neutral response that many users find appealing for everyday typing and gaming alike. While both switches provide a satisfying linear feel, their distinct sound profiles and design philosophies cater to different preferences and styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, the differences in sound profile and tactile experience are notable. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, leading to a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, especially when RGB lighting is in use due to its translucency.
On the other hand, both the Canglan V2 and Sea Salt Lemon utilize nylon as the bottom housing material. This consistent use of nylon means that both switches will offer a similar depth and fullness to the sound generated upon bottoming out. Since nylon is softer, it effectively absorbs sound, contributing to a less harsh acoustic profile. Thus, regardless of the contrast between the top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a cohesive experience when pressed down, promoting a more subdued and rounded sound quality upon activation.
In summary, while the differences in the top housing materials contribute to distinct auditory experiences—one being deeper and fuller with nylon and the other sharper and crisper with polycarbonate—the bottom housing for both switches aligns, offering consistency in sound quality during key activation. Therefore, users shifting between the two switches may find similarities in the bottoming-out experience, while also appreciating the unique characteristics of each top housing when releasing the keys. This blend of materials allows for a diverse tactile and auditory typing experience depending on user preference.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch with the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long work sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, falling into the medium-light category. This difference means that while both switches can provide a comfortable typing experience, the Canglan V2 offers a more effortless keystroke, appealing to those who favor a lighter touch. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a more substantial push feel, potentially enhancing the tactile experience for users who prefer a heavier switch. Overall, if you're looking for lighter switching action, the Canglan V2 is the better choice, while the Sea Salt Lemon caters to those who enjoy a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances allow for swift key presses. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a fuller keystroke experience. Thus, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference: if you favor responsiveness, the Canglan V2 may be the better option; if you appreciate a deeper feel, the Sea Salt Lemon would likely suit you better.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
The sound profile of the HMX Canglan V2 switch is characterized by a satisfyingly deep thock, which many users find appealing for its fuller, bass-heavy quality. This makes it a great choice for those who appreciate a richer auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch presents a more balanced soundscape with its low-pitched and neutral characteristics, resulting in a mellow tone that doesn’t overwhelm the auditory senses. The calm and moderate sound profile makes it versatile, suitable for various settings, whether you’re at home or in a work environment. Ultimately, while both switches have unique sound signatures, the Canglan V2's deeper thock and the Sea Salt Lemon's milder tones can provide satisfying auditory feedback depending on the preference of the user.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Canglan V2 is celebrated for its smooth and light action, offering a typing experience that is both effortless and enjoyable. This characteristic sets it apart from many other options on the market, as it combines a performance-driven design with a pleasing touch. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon switch features a mild feel, which is described as gentle and approachable, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. While it may prioritize comfort and accessibility over the dynamic feel offered by the Canglan V2, it still provides a solid typing experience that caters to a wide range of preferences.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities, catering to different typing preferences. The Canglan V2 is ideal for those who revel in a deep sound and a light, smooth action, while the Sea Salt Lemon prioritizes a more balanced, mild auditory experience and a gentle touch. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise satisfying results, making them excellent options in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch that delivers a satisfying, thocky sound profile and a smooth feel, the Canglan V2 may be the ideal choice for you. Its construction allows for a delightful auditory experience that is particularly rewarding for those who enjoy a deep sound signature while typing. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a well-rounded, slightly heavier switch that offers a mildly progressive spring action and a smooth typing experience without being overwhelming, the Sea Salt Lemon could be your best bet. With its balanced actuation force and low-pitched, neutral sound profile, it caters to a broader range of users and contexts, making it suitable for both home and office environments. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the lighter, thockier feel of the Canglan V2 or the mild, approachable nature of the Sea Salt Lemon, both switches have unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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