HMX Canglan V2 vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Canglan V2 stands out in the realm of linear switches, prized for its thocky sound profile and smooth, light keystroke that delivers a satisfying typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts who value auditory feedback and an effortless touch. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) shines as a hall effect switch, providing a balanced typing encounter with its neutral sound signature and finely tuned keystroke, enhanced by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble. This makes it an excellent choice for those who desire precision in their gameplay or typing while enjoying a refined tactile sensation. With their distinct characteristics, each switch has its own set of advantages depending on your specific needs and typing style. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) employ distinct housing materials for their tops, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Canglan V2 utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The comparative stiffness of polycarbonate leads to increased resonance, which is particularly pronounced in switches where clarity is essential, augmented by its translucent nature that highlights RGB lighting effects.
When examining the bottom housings, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) share the same material: nylon. This consistent choice results in a similar auditory characteristic, as nylon is recognized for its ability to create a fuller sound. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, and with both switches utilizing nylon in this component, users can expect a consistent tactile and auditory experience during keypresses. This shared material helps to reinforce the overall sound quality, providing that signature deep and rounded acoustics common to nylon, regardless of the differing top housings.
Overall, the combination of different top housing materials in the two switches leads to varied sound profiles. While the Canglan V2's nylon top provides a softer auditory experience, the polycarbonate top of the Sticky Rice (V2) enhances clarity and brightness. However, with both switches sharing nylon for their bottom housings, they converge in sound characteristics at the base of the switch. Consequently, while their upper sounds might differ significantly, the foundational sound quality remains reliably similar, allowing users to enjoy a cohesive auditory experience borne from the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, both options present light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing and gaming sessions. The Canglan V2 features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Sticky Rice (V2) has a slightly lower actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Sticky Rice (V2) requires a lighter push to initially register a keypress, but both switches ultimately bottom out at relatively similar levels. The difference in actuation forces makes the Sticky Rice (V2) the lighter option overall, potentially providing a marginally less fatigued experience during long use, whereas the Canglan V2 offers a slightly more substantial feel with its heavier actuation force. Users looking for a lighter switch might prefer the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), while those seeking a bit more resistance may lean towards the Canglan V2.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar depth when pressing down on either key. This equal travel distance results in comparable tactile feedback and actuation feel, making either option suitable for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. With both switches featuring the same travel distance, users can expect similar performance in terms of key press engagement.
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 linear switch produces a satisfyingly deep sound signature, characterized as "thocky," which many enthusiasts crave for an immersive typing experience. This is largely due to its meticulously crafted materials and improved molding techniques, creating a sound that resonates well and feels rich during typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offers a more neutral sound signature yet still manages to hint at that enchanting "thock" that enthusiasts seek. While the sound quality of both switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, the Canglan V2 leans toward a deeper resonance, whereas the Sticky Rice focuses on a balanced acoustic profile, making it a more understated choice.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is known for its smooth, light touch, providing a pleasantly effortless experience as you type. This allows for a fluid typing rhythm, enhancing comfort during long sessions. The Sticky Rice (V2), on the other hand, is designed with a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, resulting in a super smooth keystroke that emphasizes a refined tactile sensation. Though their approaches differ, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing feel, with the Canglan V2 prioritizing lightness and smoothness, while the Sticky Rice focuses on precision and stability.
In summary, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches offer unique attributes that cater to different styles of typing preferences. The Canglan V2 stands out with its deep, thocky sound and light, smooth feel, while the Sticky Rice delivers a more neutral acoustic experience paired with a refined sense of touch thanks to its wobble-reducing design. Ultimately, both switches promise to provide a gratifying typing experience, and your choice may boil down to whether you prefer a deeper sound profile or a more balanced auditory experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you crave a typing experience characterized by a deep, resonant thock and a smooth, light touch, the Canglan V2 is likely the better fit. Its carefully engineered design not only emphasizes a satisfying audio profile but also provides an effortless keystroke with a bottom-out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming without the fatigue of heavier switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced and neutral sound signature coupled with an exceptionally smooth keystroke, the Sticky Rice (V2) might be your ideal choice. With a slightly heavier actuation at 50 grams and a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, this switch caters to users who appreciate a refined typing sensation without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, your decision will come down to whether you prioritize a deeper, thocky sound or a more neutral yet smooth experience.
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