HMX Canglan V2 vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) present two intriguing options, each catering to different typing preferences and environments. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky linear feel, offering a smooth and lightweight experience that many HMX enthusiasts have longed for. Its specialized materials and advanced molding techniques contribute to a rich sound profile, making it an enticing choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Silent T1, characterized as a tactile switch, caters to those in noise-sensitive settings. It features a subtle, medium bump and a padded bottom-out sensation for a more cushioned experience, all while minimizing sound. This makes the Silent T1 ideal for quiet office environments or shared spaces. While both switches excel in their unique domains, they serve distinctly different needs in the world of typing preferences; 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
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) exhibit distinct differences that significantly affect their acoustic profiles. The Canglan V2 employs a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon absorbs more sound waves, creating a warmer acoustic experience. This property makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer a muted and less sharp sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, clearer sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for greater resonance, leading to a more prominent high-end response that can be ideal for specific typing preferences, especially in setups that emphasize clarity.
Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which unifies their typing experiences to an extent. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile of both switches by providing a consistent and deep sound impact when the key bottoms out. Despite the differences in the top housings, both switches deliver a similar bottom-out experience due to this common material. Consequently, users can expect a fuller sound and sensation from both switches when pressing down on the keys, leading to a harmonious tactile feedback that many keyboard enthusiasts enjoy.
In terms of the overall acoustic experience, the diverging materials of the top housings create a unique dynamic between the two switches. While the Canglan V2's nylon housing produces a rounder, more subdued sound when releasing a key, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a sharper, more resonant sound. This split in qualities between the top and bottom housings means that users of the Canglan V2 will experience a consistent, deeper sound throughout their typing, whereas Silent T1 users will benefit from a vivid and dynamic sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal sound preferences, but both switches offer their own unique acoustic characteristics that can be altered to suit different typing environments or styles.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a light actuation force of 42 grams, allowing for effortless keystrokes, which is beneficial for those who engage in prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent T1 has an unknown actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This disparity highlights that while the Canglan V2 is lighter and ideally suited for users who prefer a tender touch, the Silent T1 caters to those in search of a more substantial and tactile feel. Therefore, while both switches differ in their overall feel and weight, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option, making it a favorable choice for extended use, whereas the Silent T1 provides a more robust experience for typists who value a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, a notable difference emerges. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Silent T1's 4 mm. This means that the Canglan V2 may provide a more responsive feel for those who favor quicker keypresses, making it appealing for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1, with its longer travel distance, can deliver a more tactile experience, which some users prefer for a more pronounced feedback while typing. Thus, if you favor the more responsive option, the Canglan V2 would be the ideal choice, while those who appreciate a hearty depth in their keystrokes might lean towards the Silent T1.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 HMX Canglan V2 switch produces a satisfyingly deep sound signature that is often described as thocky, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This rich acoustic profile is the result of carefully selected materials and advanced molding techniques, giving the Canglan V2 a sound that is both distinct and enjoyable. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a muted audio experience, designed specifically for noise-sensitive environments, which reduces the sound typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This switch's subdued audio feedback ensures that typing remains quiet, making it a suitable choice for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions where noise can be a concern.
When considering the feel of these two switches, the Canglan V2 offers a smooth and light typing experience that is likely to please users seeking effortless key presses. Its construction lends itself to a refined tactile response without being overly heavy, allowing for quick and comfortable typing. Conversely, the Silent T1 presents a medium bump that offers a stepped tactile experience, where the user feels a slight resistance as they press down on the key. This tactile feedback is more subdued than in hypertactile options, giving a balanced sensation that is accentuated but not overly intrusive. Additionally, the polished nature of the Silent T1 enhances its smoothness, elevating the overall feel even further.
In conclusion, while the HMX Canglan V2 and Durock Silent T1 switches cater to different needs, they both offer unique characteristics that satisfy distinct typing preferences. The Canglan V2 excels in providing a rich and thocky sound alongside a light, smooth typing feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize audio feedback. On the other hand, the Silent T1 combines a muted sound profile with a balanced tactile experience, perfect for those who seek a quieter switch without sacrificing tactile engagement. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer robust auditory feedback or a subtle, quiet typing environment, but both switches promise satisfying results tailored to their respective purposes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you favor a lighter touch with a smooth and deep sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly appealing for extended typing sessions, allowing for a more effortless keypress. This switch is ideal if you’re looking for a satisfying linear experience without the distraction of sound, making it great for both gaming and general productivity tasks. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment or if you prefer a bit of tactile feedback, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be your go-to option. With its 67-gram actuation force, it delivers a more substantial feel and a muted, yet still pronounced, typing experience that blends a tactile bump with silence. This makes it particularly suitable for office or shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept at a minimum. The Silent T1's unique combination of tactility and subdued audio feedback effectively caters to those who appreciate a tactile experience while wanting to maintain a quiet atmosphere. Ultimately, your choice should reflect both your tactile preferences and the specific setting in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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