HMX Canglan V2 vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g present intriguing yet distinct options for enthusiasts. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its "thocky" linear feel, offering a uniquely deep sound profile combined with a smooth and light touch, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy an audible yet satisfying feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura switches are engineered for a quieter experience, resembling the sound of raindrops, and feature a balanced 53g actuation force which appeals to typists who prefer tactile feedback without the noise—perfect for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences; where the Canglan V2 excels in auditory satisfaction, the Silent Sakura focuses on a serene typing environment. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both feature nylon as the material for their top housing, which signifies a shared attribute between the two switches. This commonality in material leads to similar auditory experiences when typing, as both switches are designed to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's inherently softer composition allows for effective sound absorption, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. When users engage with either switch, they will likely find that the overall sound experience upon key press and release retains a pleasant, muted characteristic, regardless of other differences in their construction.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Canglan V2 is also made from nylon, whereas the Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes polycarbonate. This distinction is significant when examining the overall sound profiles of each switch. While the nylon bottom housing in the Canglan V2 continues the softer, fuller sound tradition established by its top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Sakura - 53g introduces a sharper, higher-pitched tone. Due to polycarbonate’s stiffer nature, it generates a crisper sound that can create a more resonant experience when bottoming out, contrasting with the softer impact of the Canglan V2’s nylon elements.
Ultimately, since the Canglan V2 employs nylon for both housing parts, the qualities of the switch's sound and feel will be cohesive, producing a unified auditory profile. In contrast, the differing materials in the Silent Sakura - 53g mean that the user may experience a blend of sound characteristics, where the bottoming action produces a clearer, resonant tone from the polycarbonate base while the release action maintains a deeper sound from the nylon top. Consequently, the Canglan V2 would likely provide a more uniform experience, while the Silent Sakura - 53g showcases a dynamic range due to its varied housing materials, allowing users to experience distinct responses from their typing sessions.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it favorable for users seeking a more effortless typing experience ideal for prolonged use in work or gaming scenarios. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, positioning it in the medium-light category. This difference in force can lead to a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. While both switches are relatively lightweight, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option. This variation means that while users of either switch will experience different levels of resistance during typing, the Canglan V2 will likely allow for easier keystrokes, which could benefit those who type for extended periods.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Silent Sakura switch provides a more traditional feel, offering a greater depth with each keystroke, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Canglan V2, with its shorter travel distance, may be better suited for gamers or those who favor quicker response times, as shorter distances can enhance speed and efficiency in gameplay. Consequently, if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Canglan V2 would be the ideal choice, while the Silent Sakura could be preferable for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. Overall, the Canglan V2 is the shorter switch, while the Silent Sakura is the longer option.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 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 deep, thocky signature that appeals to many enthusiasts, providing an audible tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is designed for a quiet environment, producing a muted sound akin to gentle raindrops—perfect for those who prefer to type without disturbing others. While the Canglan V2's robust auditory presence may make it more suitable for users who enjoy a pronounced acoustic response, the Silent Sakura is ideal for settings where discretion is key, such as in shared workspaces or during late-night sessions.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Canglan V2 offers a smooth and light typing experience, making it feel effortless to engage each keystroke. This lightness does not compromise on the satisfaction factor, as it still provides a notable resistance and feedback that typists appreciate. Conversely, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch also boasts a light keystroke with its balanced 53g bottom-out force, catering to those who enjoy a similar effortless action. Both switches facilitate a smooth transition during typing, but the Canglan V2 raises the bar with its unique thocky sensation, while the Silent Sakura maintains that smoothness with a focus on silence.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches present distinct auditory and tactile qualities tailored to different user preferences. Those seeking a deeper and more pronounced sound will gravitate toward the Canglan V2, while users in need of a quiet yet smooth typing experience will find solace in the Silent Sakura. Regardless of the choice, each switch offers a unique blend of feel and sound that contributes to the overall mechanical keyboard experience, ensuring satisfaction for typists whether they prefer the thock or the whisper.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch will ultimately depend on your preferences for both sound and feel during typing. If you enjoy a light bottom-out force and are looking for a satisfying, thocky sound signature combined with a smooth keystroke, the Canglan V2 will suit your needs perfectly. This switch excels in providing a deeply resonant auditory experience, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a substantial auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keypress that still maintains a light and balanced feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is designed for you. It offers a whisper-quiet typing experience, perfect for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is a priority, while maintaining a pleasing tactile response. In essence, choose the Canglan V2 for a lively, pronounced sound and a lighter feel, whereas the Silent Sakura - 53g is the perfect companion for those desiring a more subdued yet satisfying typing experience.
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