HMX Canglan V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between options can greatly impact your typing experience. The HMX Canglan V2 stands out as a linear switch that promises a satisfyingly deep sound and a smooth, light feel, making it perfect for those who enjoy a "thocky" auditory feedback while typing. Its meticulously crafted materials and advanced molding techniques appeal to enthusiasts who prioritize a seamless keystroke without any tactile interruption. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is a top contender for those seeking a quieter typing experience, particularly in shared or office environments. With medium tactility and precision-engineered components that eliminate the need for silicone dampeners, this switch delivers a crisp yet silent feedback, making it ideal for users who appreciate tactile sensations without the distraction of noise. Both switches cater to different types of users: the Canglan V2 for those who love audible feedback in their keystrokes, and the WS Silent Tactile for those favoring discretion without sacrificing responsiveness. 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
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, it's notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material contributes to a consistent auditory experience when typing, showcasing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon as a plastic helps absorb sound effectively, resulting in a more muted and rounder acoustic character. As users type on either switch, the effect of this material becomes evident; the unique properties of nylon enhance the overall typing experience by reducing high-pitched noises that are often prevalent in harder plastic switches.
Both the Canglan V2 and the WS Silent Tactile exhibit the same characteristics due to their identical nylon construction. The response of the switch is influenced equally by both the top and bottom housings, allowing users to enjoy a harmonious blend of sounds when pressing down on keys and when releasing them. The absence of harsh sounds also means that both switches likely produce a similar bottom-out feel, as the nylon's softer composition will absorb more impact compared to harder materials. Therefore, a typing experience with either switch will reflect a consistent sound profile that appeals to those who appreciate quieter and more subdued acoustic feedback.
Moreover, the uniform choice of housing material also suggests that gamers and typists can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback. While the housings might have identical materials, the overall structure and design might contribute to slight variations in feel. However, the core auditory experience remains largely unchanged due to the nylon's inherent qualities. In conclusion, the Canglan V2 and WS Silent Tactile offer users a comparable experience when it comes to sound absorption and tactile feedback, reinforcing the notion that using nylon in both the top and bottom housings fosters a consistent and pleasant typing environment.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Canglan V2 features a light actuation force of 42 grams, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer long typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile has an unspecified actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This suggests that users of the WS Silent Tactile might enjoy a more substantial typing experience, as the greater force gives a pronounced feel when the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, the HMX Canglan V2 is the lighter option overall, while the WS Silent Tactile caters to those who appreciate a firmer pushback from their keyboard. If the actuation forces were known to be the same, users would achieve a similar typing experience with slight variances in feedback due to the different bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch both share the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience identical travel adjustments as both switches operate within the same range. As a result, one can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation feel when using either switch. Since their travel distances are equal, they might appeal to users seeking a consistent typing experience without distinguishing factor in terms of key travel.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 is celebrated for its thocky and deep sound signature, which delivers a robust auditory experience that many enthusiasts crave. This distinct sound profile stands out due to its rich tonal qualities, making it satisfying to type on for those who appreciate a more resonant feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch takes a different approach with a muted sound. Its construction allows for superior noise reduction, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices. The sound produced by the WS Silent Tactile is soft and discreet yet maintains clarity, allowing for a typing experience that minimizes the traditional noise associated with mechanical keyboards while still offering a crisp sound on actuation.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 is lauded for its smooth and light typing experience. With meticulous engineering, the switch provides a velvety and fluid actuation that enhances the overall comfort during extended typing sessions. This is in stark contrast to the WS Silent Tactile, which offers a medium level of tactile feedback. The tactile bump is accented, providing an invigorating response that makes each keystroke feel satisfying without being overwhelming. The combination of pronounced feedback and a mild actuation force contributes to an engaging typing sensation that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort.
In summary, while the HMX Canglan V2 and Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches cater to different preferences, they both offer unique benefits that can meet various typing needs. The Canglan V2 is perfect for those who prioritize sound depth and a smooth feel, while the WS Silent Tactile is tailored for users seeking a quieter yet tactile experience, ideal for professional settings. Ultimately, your keyboard's sound and feel can be significantly influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, allowing for a tailored typing experience that aligns with individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you value a light touch and an engaging linear typing experience, the Canglan V2 is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force of 48 grams makes it ideal for fast-paced typing, gaming, or simply enjoying the smooth, deep sound signature it produces—perfect for those who appreciate a thocky feel without the distraction of tactility. On the other hand, if you find yourself in an environment where noise must be minimized, such as an office or shared workspace, the WS Silent Tactile switch is tailor-made for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force and muted sound profile provide a balanced tactile sensation without overwhelming noise, ensuring you can type responsively while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere. Ultimately, consider the tactile feedback you desire and the setting in which you’ll be using your keyboard to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.