HMX Canglan V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves intrigued by the unique characteristics of various options, such as the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both of which fall into the beloved category of linear switches. The Canglan V2 has garnered attention for its thocky, deep sound signature, which is complemented by a smooth and light feel, making it a delightful choice for those seeking satisfying auditory feedback along with a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl distinguishes itself with its innovative use of ball-bearings that significantly reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an exceptionally smooth typing sensation and a medium-high pitched sound signature. For users who prioritize acoustic depth and tactile pleasure, the Canglan V2 may emerge as the preferable option, while those inclined toward an ultra-smooth feel and reduced key resistance might lean toward the WS Pearl. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In examining the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, an attribute that contributes significantly to the overall typing experience. Nylon, being a classic material in the keyboard switch industry, brings durability and a unique acoustic profile. Both the Canglan V2 and WS Pearl's construction allow for a deeper and fuller sound when typing, which results from nylon's softer nature. This quality enables both switches to absorb more sound, producing a rounder auditory experience—a characteristic that typing enthusiasts often seek for an enjoyable and immersive auditory feedback during use.
While both switches share the same nylon material in their constructions, the impact of this material is manifest differently in terms of sound perception and tactile feedback. Since the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly, both the Canglan V2 and WS Pearl deliver a consistent and satisfying feel upon key actuation. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to the nuanced sound, ensuring that users experience a soft, cushioned landing with each keystroke. In the case of these two models, the interplay between the top and bottom housings effectively creates a cohesive typing experience, where the overall sound profile remains similar despite the individual brands.
In summary, both the HMX Canglan V2 and Wuque Studio WS Pearl accomplish a comparable auditory and tactile experience due to their identical use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. The shared acoustic properties of nylon enable both switches to produce a result characterized by a deeper, rounded sound profile and a satisfying tactile feedback. Therefore, users can expect similarly enjoyable typing experiences from either switch, as their designs harmonize the strengths of nylon in creating an enveloping auditory landscape, irrespective of minor variations in branding or design ethos.
Weight
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams but a notably heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, which indicates a firmer push when the key is fully depressed. While the Canglan V2 offers a more consistent light touch throughout its range, the WS Pearl's bottom out pressure contributes to a more substantial typing experience. Overall, users who value a softer feedback may favor the Canglan V2, while those who appreciate a stronger key feel should consider the WS Pearl for its firmer bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, resulting in similar keyfeel and actuation experience when pressing down on them. With both switches featuring this identical travel distance, users can expect a consistent feel across both options, making them comparable choices for those seeking linear switches. The equal travel distance indicates that neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, allowing for a seamless transition between the two if desired.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Canglan V2 switch produces a satisfyingly deep and thocky sound signature that many enthusiasts find appealing, creating an auditory experience that enhances the typing or gaming atmosphere. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch offers a medium-high pitched sound that is noticeably lighter than the Canglan V2. The distinct audio profiles of these switches cater to different preferences, and it’s important to note that the overall sound experience can also greatly depend on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials used alongside either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 stands out with its smooth and light action, which many users appreciate for its effortless keystrokes and satisfying tactile experience. The WS Pearl, however, elevates this smooth sensation even further with its unique ball-bearing mechanism that minimizes friction, resulting in a truly surreal feel while typing. While both switches are designed to offer a pleasant and fluid experience, the Canglan V2 leans towards a traditional smoothness, while the WS Pearl takes it to the next level with its innovative design.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches present distinctly unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Canglan V2 offers a deep thocky sound with a light touch, while the WS Pearl contributes a higher pitched tone with an exceptionally smooth feel thanks to its ball-bearing technology. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a deeper sound and smooth action or a lighter sound with unparalleled smoothness. Both switches promise high-quality performance but satisfy different preferences, ensuring there is something for every mechanical keyboard lover.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches will largely depend on your preferences in sound and feel, as well as the type of experience you seek from your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch with a satisfying, thocky sound signature, the Canglan V2 is your ideal choice. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it easier to press, setting the stage for a smooth keystroke that many typing enthusiasts appreciate. This switch excels in those scenarios where you want to type quickly and comfortably, making it a great fit for casual use, prolonged typing sessions, or while gaming when you appreciate responsive feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that provides a unique typing experience characterized by surreal smoothness, the WS Pearl is definitely worth considering. With a bottom-out force of 58 grams and the innovative ball-bearing design, these switches deliver a medium-high pitched sound signature and a different tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying, especially for typing precision and longer typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision comes down to whether you prioritize a lighter, thocky feel or a heavier, smoother keystroke experience.
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