HMX Canglan V2 vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Canglan V2 and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your unique typing style and sound preferences, the HMX Canglan V2 and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both present enticing options, albeit with distinct characteristics. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its "thocky" sound profile and light actuation, making it an excellent choice for those who crave a rich auditory experience paired with a smooth keystroke. This switch’s thoughtful construction combines premium materials and advanced molding techniques, ensuring not only durability but a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch introduces a heftier feel that caters to users preferring a more substantial key press. Its PA12 top housing offers a softer acoustic quality, while the POM stem delivers a crisp and higher-pitched sound. This switch strikes a balance between sophistication and function, appealing to those who appreciate nuanced auditory feedback. Both switches can enhance your typing experience remarkably, but their unique qualities make them suited for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Canglan V2 and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) share a significant similarity in their housing materials, both utilizing nylon for the top and bottom sections of the switches. This commonality leads to an overall sound profile characterized by a deeper, fuller auditory experience, thanks to nylon's inherent properties. Being a softer plastic, nylon is effective at absorbing sound, as it dampens the higher frequencies that often contribute to harsher sounds produced by harder materials. Consequently, both switch models offer a cohesive typing experience, with each stroke delivering a pleasantly muted acoustic signature that many users find appealing.
While the Canglan V2 and Xinhai (Heavy) capitalize on identical nylon materials, there are nuances in how these materials contribute to the typing experience. The sound generated when bottoming out a key is more influenced by the bottom housing, which allows for a consistent feedback when pressed. Simultaneously, the top housing significantly affects the sound produced during the release of a key. Since both switches employ nylon for both housings, users can expect consistent acoustic behaviors, leading to an engaging and satisfying typing experience. In essence, the characteristics imparted by the materials remain uniform across both models.
In conclusion, the use of nylon in both the Canglan V2 and Xinhai (Heavy) results in similar acoustic outcomes and typing interactions. Users can appreciate the rich sound profile and tactile feedback that this particular housing material provides. The identical use of nylon in both switches ensures that they will feel and sound alike, making these models ideal for those who prioritize auditory comfort and tactile satisfaction in their keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Canglan V2 or the Xinhai (Heavy), the expected results in terms of sound and feel remain strikingly consistent, underscoring the effectiveness of nylon as a housing material in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Canglan V2 features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to press down. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a richer typing experience. Thus, while the Canglan V2 is designed for those who appreciate a lighter touch, the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to individuals who favor a stronger push. These differences imply that although both switches serve their purposes effectively, they cater to varying preferences regarding typing force, enabling users to select based on their specific needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a slight difference to note. The Canglan V2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Xinhai (Heavy), which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This 0.1 mm difference means that the Canglan V2 may offer a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper keypress experience, appealing to those who prefer a less abrupt feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai (Heavy) could provide a more responsive experience, which might be favored by gamers seeking quick reaction times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired depth and responsiveness of keypresses.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 is renowned for its deep, thocky sound signature, which resonates beautifully with keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate a fuller auditory experience. This rich sound is achieved through a combination of premium materials and cutting-edge molding techniques, ensuring that each keystroke exudes a certain depth that enhances typing and gaming experiences. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) presents a different auditory profile with its PA12 top housing, which contributes to a softer acoustic quality. The POM stem delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, providing a more refined sound that some users might prefer over the deep thock of the Canglan V2. Ultimately, the choice between these switches in terms of sound will largely depend on personal preferences, but both offer unique acoustic characteristics to cater to diverse tastes.
When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 switch offers a smooth and light typing experience that appeals to those who favor a gentle and fluid keystroke. This combination creates a satisfying tactile feedback while remaining easy to actuate, making it an excellent option for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch lives up to its name with a heftier actuation feel, resulting in a more deliberate and controlled typing experience. While the Canglan V2 leans more towards a feather-light touch, the Xinhai (Heavy) provides more resistance, which may suit users who prefer a firmer response from their keyboard.
In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Canglan V2 stands out with its deep, thocky sound and smooth, light feel, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a softer acoustic signature paired with a solid, more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize the rich resonance of the Canglan or the refined acoustics and controlled feel of the Xinhai, allowing you to select a switch that best matches your individual typing style and auditory desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter touch and a smooth, quick response, the Canglan V2 is an excellent option, especially if you enjoy a satisfying thocky sound signature that enhances your typing or gaming experience. Its 48 grams of bottom out force makes it ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing style. On the other hand, if you appreciate a firmer feel and the precision that comes with a more substantial key press, the Xinhai (Heavy) might be the better choice for you. With a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, it offers a more deliberate typing experience, complemented by its softer acoustics and higher-pitched resonance due to the POM stem. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with the tactile feedback and sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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