HMX Canglan V2 vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to unique characteristics that enhance their typing or gaming experience. Among the myriad options available, the HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Sky POM stand out as compelling choices within the linear switch category. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound signature and smooth, light feel, resulting from its innovative material blend and superior molding techniques, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM impresses with its all-POM construction, delivering a clacky sound, silky smoothness, and gentle actuation force, appealing to users who seek premium quality without breaking the bank. Both switches offer unique benefits suited to different preferences, but as they cater to varying tastes in sound and actuation feel, it’s crucial to explore these options further. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
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 spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Dareu Sky POM utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the auditory and tactile experiences they provide. The Canglan V2 features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deep and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's inherently softer nature, which allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Sky POM incorporates a POM top housing, which also produces a unique and pleasing sound profile, leaning towards the deeper and more muted spectrum. While both materials aim for a rich auditory experience, the specifics of their sound characteristics differ due to their inherent properties.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Canglan V2 and the Sky POM employ nylon materials. The nylon bottom housing in both models contributes to producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The soft nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound, thereby impacting the bottom-out sound and feel primarily. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that users will have a similar tactile experience when bottoming out the keys, regardless of the type of material used in the top housing. This shared foundation of nylon creates a reliable baseline for the sound profile of the switches.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials between the Canglan V2 and the Dareu Sky POM shape the overall sound and feel of each switch, while the consistency in the bottom housing allows for comparable performance in terms of bottoming out. Users may experience distinct auditory characteristics from the two switches due to the top materials, but the nylon bottom housings guarantee a similar and satisfying tactile feedback. Those who appreciate a deeper sound may find value in both switches; however, they might prefer one over the other based on the nuanced auditory qualities imparted by the top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, notable differences can be seen in their actuation forces. The Canglan V2 requires an actuation force of 42 grams, which is slightly heavier than the 40 grams needed for the Sky POM. This means that typists and gamers who prefer almost effortless keystrokes might lean towards the Sky POM for a lighter experience. However, the bottom out force for the Sky POM is unknown, making it difficult to evaluate its overall performance in terms of tactile feedback. The Canglan V2 has a bottom out force of 48 grams, adding an additional layer of resistance that may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Overall, the Canglan V2 can be considered the heavier option due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the Sky POM provides a lighter actuation experience, albeit with uncertainty regarding its bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Sky POM has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which gives it a longer, more pronounced feel. For gamers and those seeking responsive keystrokes, the shorter travel distance of the Canglan V2 may be preferable, promoting quicker actuation. In contrast, the Sky POM's longer travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience, as it provides a deeper engagement with each keypress. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in your typing or gaming experience.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature, which offers a rich auditory experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. This characteristic resonates well within various keyboard builds and, along with the right keycaps, can deliver a sound profile that’s both satisfying and immersive. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is known for its clacky sound, which is typically low-pitched and provides a bass-heavy, mellow tone. The contrast between the thocky sound of the Canglan V2 and the clacky sound of the Sky POM switch showcases two distinct auditory experiences that can cater to different preferences, yet the sound produced can be influenced by board and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is noted for its smooth, light actuation that enhances the typing experience, making it comfortable for long sessions. The overall touch and response of the Canglan V2 can create a delightful interaction with each keystroke. In comparison, the Sky POM switch is characterized by a buttery, creamy, and silky feeling, ensuring that each press feels seamless and effortless. The use of POM material further enhances the smoothness of the keystrokes, resulting in a typing experience that feels almost gliding. These features may lead to a pleasurable and fluid typing rhythm, allowing typists to enjoy a high level of comfort while using the Sky POM switches.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Dareu Sky POM linear switches deliver unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Canglan V2 offers a deep thocky sound and a smooth feel, the Sky POM stands out with its clacky sound and exceptionally silky typing experience. Considering these aspects, individuals can choose based on their sound preference and desired tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches promise to elevate the typing experience, ensuring that users can find satisfaction in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you lean towards a lightweight and satisfying thocky sound signature, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option, particularly if you appreciate a deeper audio profile that enhances your keystrokes. This switch is ideal for those who seek a light actuation force combined with a rich sound, making it a great fit for typing or gaming scenarios where auditory feedback enhances your engagement. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silken, buttery smooth typing experience and a more mellow low-pitched sound, the Dareu Sky POM switch would be the right choice. Its premium POM construction offers a uniquely creamy and silky feel, which is perfect for long typing sessions or casual usage where comfort is key. So, assess your priorities between tactile feedback and acoustic characteristics, and choose the switch that resonates most with your typing style and preferences.
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