HMX Canglan V2 vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear each offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Canglan V2 stands out with its thocky sound signature and smooth, light feel, appealing to those who crave a deeper auditory feedback during their typing experience. Its meticulously crafted materials and superior molding techniques result in a satisfying tactile sensation that HMX enthusiasts have long awaited. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear aims to strike a balance between silence and feedback, boasting a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still providing a clacky bottom-out feel. This switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy linear switches but desire a more muted sound profile. Both switches cater to different user needs, whether it's the deep, resonant sound of the Canglan V2 or the subtle, innovative design of the Semi-Silent Linear. However, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the type of plastics utilized for the top housings. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a duller, rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear employs a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for greater sound resonance and clarity, making it an excellent choice for users who favor a more pronounced auditory feedback, especially in setups with RGB lighting due to the material's translucency.
Interestingly, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Canglan V2 and the Semi-Silent Linear use nylon, which plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a more muted and rounded sound when bottomed out. This similarity means that despite differences in the top housing materials, the bottom-out sound and feel will largely remain consistent between the two switches, resulting in a similar tactile experience during key depressions. This shared use of nylon at the bottom helps to maintain a cohesive sound profile across both switches, allowing users to appreciate a depth typical of nylon when bottoming out.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches leads to a diverse yet similarly gratifying typing experience. While the Canglan V2 provides a fuller and rounder sound profile through its nylon top, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a crisper sound thanks to its polycarbonate top. However, both switches harmonize in their bottom housing's nylon construction, ensuring that the impact felt during key presses remains similar. This strategic differentiation allows users to select a switch based on their preferred auditory experience while still enjoying comparable performance in bottoming out, ultimately catering to a range of typing preferences.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, especially during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch does not specify its actuation force, but it has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, which suggests a firmer keystroke and may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Canglan V2 is the lighter switch, ideal for comfort during long usage, whereas the Jwick switch, being heavier (at least in terms of bottom out force), caters to users seeking a stronger push feel. If the actuation force of the Jwick is determined to be similar to the Canglan V2, users can expect a comparable typing experience where both switches prioritize responsiveness differently based on their weight preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it is evident that the Canglan V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear measures slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm can influence the typing experience significantly. Gamers might lean towards the Canglan V2 for its quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, facilitating faster key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing may opt for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, as its longer travel distance can provide a deeper, more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Canglan V2 offers a more responsive experience, whereas the Semi-Silent provides a fuller depth with its longer travel distance.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 comparing the sound profile of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it's clear that both have unique auditory characteristics. The Canglan V2 is known for its deep, thocky sound signature, providing a rich auditory feedback that many enthusiasts crave. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear switch presents a more subdued sound profile. While it features a slightly clacky bottom-out sound, the topping-out noise is whisper-quiet, creating an overall balance that is less intrusive. The Canglan V2 delivers a pronounced auditory experience, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear is designed for those seeking a more delicate and discreet sound while still retaining some character.
In terms of feel, the HMX Canglan V2 is celebrated for its smooth and light feel, which offers an enjoyable typing experience distinct from heavier switches. The sensation while typing is fluid, allowing for easy transitions between keystrokes. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch brings a mixture of qualities into play. It provides a mild typing experience, making it approachable for all users, alongside a snappy responsiveness that can make fast typing more invigorating. Furthermore, it boasts a buttery and polished feel that enhances smooth key travel and overall typing satisfaction. While the two switches cater to slightly different preferences regarding typing dynamics, both deliver a refined tactile experience.
To conclude, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique sound and feel attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Canglan V2 excels with its deep, thocky sound and smooth, light feel, making it a favorite among those who value auditory feedback. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a more subdued auditory experience alongside a mild yet responsive touch, making it suitable for users seeking a quieter typing environment without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, whether one desires the richness of the Canglan V2 or the subtler elegance of the Semi-Silent Linear, both switches are designed to enhance the mechanical typing experience in their own way.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch hinges on your specific needs and preferences in both sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom-out force of only 48 grams, the Canglan V2 may be your ideal choice. Its thocky sound profile delivers a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate a deeper sound signature. This switch is particularly suited for users who prioritize a smooth and effortless press, contributing to a more playful typing experience, making it great for extended writing sessions or casual gaming.
On the other hand, if you favor a more robust typing feel with a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch might be the way to go. Its semi-silent nature offers a more subdued sound, ideal for quieter environments like offices or shared spaces, while still providing distinct auditory feedback with its clacky bottom-out sound. This switch balances a silky-smooth typing experience with mild responsiveness, making it versatile for both typing tasks and gaming. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect whether you lean towards a lighter, thocky feel with the Canglan V2 or a more moderate, subtle experience with the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, allowing you to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup according to your unique preferences.
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