HMX Canglan V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Dash are noteworthy and cater to distinct user preferences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated as a thocky linear switch, designed to fulfill the desires of HMX enthusiasts seeking a deeper sound signature and a smooth yet light keystroke. Its meticulous crafting and improved molding techniques provide a genuinely tactile experience characterized by a silky, feathery, and bouncy feel, making it an appealing option for those who favor a more subdued typing experience without the distraction of clicky sounds. On the other hand, the WS Dash, with its hall effect design and bright, clacky sound, presents a more dynamic choice, resonating particularly well with users who appreciate a polished, engaging auditory feedback while typing. This captivating re-color of the Magnetic Jade brings a level of refinement that can elevate your overall experience. While both switches offer unique benefits—one prioritizing a deep, thocky feel and the other a bright, clacky signature—each caters to different tactile 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
30g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, two distinctly different profiles emerge from their top housings. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its softer characteristics, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon allow it to absorb sound better than harder plastics, leading to a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the WS Dash is equipped with polycarbonate for its top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's rigidity. Polycarbonate’s stiffer nature enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a more pronounced and higher-pitched sound. Therefore, users seeking a smooth sound might favor the Canglan V2, while those who prefer a livelier acoustic response would likely lean towards the WS Dash.
However, when examining the bottom housings of both switches, a notable similarity arises, as both the Canglan V2 and the WS Dash employ nylon material. This shared choice significantly influences the sound and feel when bottoming out the switches. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively dampens sound, creating that desirable deep and full auditory experience typical of nylon switches. Consequently, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, users will still obtain similar sound characteristics stemming from the nylon bottom housing. This means both switches will offer a level of cohesion in terms of their auditory feedback, particularly when a key is fully pressed down.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different top and bottom housing materials profoundly affects the overall feel and sound of the switches. While the Canglan V2 may provide a rounder auditory experience due to its nylon top, the WS Dash will deliver a sharper sound profile because of its polycarbonate top. Nonetheless, the nylon bottom in both switches ensures a consistent base of deeper sounds during key presses, resulting in an engaging blend of characteristics that accommodate varying preferences for sound and feel. Therefore, users can appreciate the unique features of each model while still enjoying the familiarity of nylon's soft dampening effects present in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a lighter option overall, which is ideal for users looking for less strain during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lower actuation force of 30 grams, categorized as medium-light, while its bottom out force is slightly higher at 55 grams. This means that while the WS Dash requires less force to initiate a keystroke, it has a firmer feel when fully pressed down. Therefore, those who value lighter key presses may prefer the WS Dash for its actuation, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Canglan V2 due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, making them suitable for different user experiences.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch both share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience an identical distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, regardless of the switch used, the typing experience will feel consistent in terms of travel distance, allowing for similar tactile feedback and actuation response.
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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 it comes to sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch offers a low-pitched, thocky profile that produces a deep, rich tone often described as satisfying to the ear. This sound signature is ideal for those who appreciate a bass-heavy experience reminiscent of a soft "thud" when keys are pressed and released. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switch contrasts with its bright, clacky acoustics, delivering a sharp, snappy tone characterized as crisp and percussive. While the Canglan V2's sound appeals more to those who prefer a mellow ambiance, the WS Dash caters to individuals who favor a more energetic and lively audio experience while typing.
Regarding the feel, both switches excel in providing a silky typing experience. The Canglan V2 enhances this sensation further with additional descriptors such as feathery and bouncy, indicating that the switch requires little effort to actuate and offers an elastic rebound that adds to the overall mechanics of typing. This makes it especially suitable for extended use, as it minimizes finger fatigue. The WS Dash also presents a polished feel, which pairs well with its silky nature. This smoothness is likely attributed to the materials used and potentially factory lubing, ensuring that users experience reduced friction and effortless key travel as they type.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Canglan V2's low-pitched, thocky sound paired with its feathery and bouncy feel makes it ideal for those who enjoy a rich auditory and tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Dash's bright clackiness and polished silkiness cater to users seeking a more dynamic and sharp typing experience. Ultimately, depending on your priorities regarding sound and feel—whether you tilt towards a mellow thock or an energizing clap—you will find suitable enjoyment in both switches, but each distinctly appeals to varied typing styles and atmospheres.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you’re someone who enjoys a light touch with a focus on a satisfying thocky sound, the Canglan V2 is your go-to option. Its 48-gram actuation force makes it perfect for prolonged typing or gaming sessions where comfort and reduced strain are paramount. You’ll appreciate its deep, low-pitched sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a mellow auditory experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit more polished and are attracted to a crisp and clacky sound profile, the WS Dash switches would be a better fit for you. With their 55-gram actuation force, they offer a medium-light feel that still promotes a refined typing experience, making them well-suited for tasks that require faster and more dynamic keystrokes, such as competitive gaming. Both switches provide a silky smooth feel, but the Dash brings an energetic response that might appeal to those who enjoy a bit more tactile feedback in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider what type of sound and feel you value most, along with how you intend to use your keyboard, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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