HMX Canglan V2 vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, two standout options for those who prefer linear switches are the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The HMX Canglan V2 is a thocky linear switch that has captivated enthusiasts with its meticulously crafted design, offering a deep sound signature and a smooth, light touch that enhances the typing experience. This switch is particularly appealing to users who appreciate auditory feedback alongside tactile elegance, making it ideal for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch caters to gamers and typists seeking speed and responsiveness, thanks to its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. While both switches share the linear characteristic, their distinct sound signatures and feel offer unique advantages tailored to different 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

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Canglan V2 and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, a clear distinction arises in the choice of top housing. The Canglan V2 utilizes nylon, a classic material known for its softer nature, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switch. This characteristic allows the nylon top housing to effectively absorb sound, resulting in a more rounded acoustic experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. This allows for clearer sound articulation and a more resonant response, especially beneficial if RGB lighting is a consideration due to the translucency of polycarbonate. Thus, while both materials serve the purpose of providing a functional switch, their differing sound profiles lead to diverse typing experiences.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, creating a unified characteristic that influences their acoustic output during typing. Given that nylon is known for yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile, this similarity ensures that both the Canglan V2 and the Yellow Silver will exhibit dampened acoustics when the switch bottoms out. This commonality in the bottom housing results in muted sound qualities that emphasize a softer auditory experience. Therefore, while the top housings differ in composition and, consequently, in sound sharpness, the identical nylon bottom housing serves to provide a cohesive element in both switches, allowing for a consistent bottom-out sound profile.

In summary, the contrasting materials of the top housings in the HMX Canglan V2 and Outemu Yellow Silver switches create markedly different auditory experiences during typing. The Canglan V2's nylon housing absorbs sound for a mellower tone, while the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate housing accentuates clarity and brightness. However, they share a commonality in their nylon bottom housings, which harmonizes their sound profiles when pressed down. This design choice ultimately allows users to experience a blend of sound qualities, where the impact of each housing material is felt distinctly, yet cohesively, as they type.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can observe distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out force. The Canglan V2 has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer effortless keystrokes and longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. This indicates that while the Yellow Silver switch still provides a relatively light typing experience, it offers a more substantial feel compared to the Canglan V2. Therefore, the Canglan V2 is the lighter option overall, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and ease during extended use, while the Yellow Silver may be favored by typists who appreciate a more pronounced resistance in their switches.

Travel distance

The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Canglan V2, you can expect a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch, with its traditional 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper, more substantial feel that might appeal to those who prefer a more tactile experience when typing or gaming. Therefore, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Canglan V2 would be the better choice, whereas the Yellow Silver would satisfy those who enjoy a more pronounced key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch is known for its deep, thocky sound, characterized by a richer auditory experience that adds a satisfying resonance with each keystroke. This sound profile is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing or gaming, creating an immersive experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch presents a neutral sound profile, which ensures a moderate and unobtrusive auditory experience. This neutrality allows for versatility in different environments, making it suitable for both gaming and professional settings without distracting from other tasks. While both switches have their distinct sound characteristics, the Canglan V2 offers a more pronounced auditory response, whereas the Yellow Silver maintains a balanced sound level.

When it comes to feel, the Canglan V2 stands out with its smooth and light action, providing a delightful typing experience that many users find enjoyable. This lightness contributes to a satisfying tactile experience and reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch also features a light actuation force, designed for speed and responsiveness, making it particularly favorable for gamers who require quick key presses. While both switches prioritize a light feel, the Canglan V2 tends to emphasize smoothness, potentially enhancing comfort, whereas the Yellow Silver focuses on quickness, aligning well with competitive gaming styles.

Overall, the HMX Canglan V2 and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you're seeking a rich and satisfying sound along with smooth typing, the Canglan V2 could be your go-to choice. However, if you prefer a versatile switch with a neutral sound profile that excels in both gaming and typing, the Yellow Silver might be the ideal option. Both are light in feel, which ensures comfort during extended use, but the choice ultimately boils down to whether you prioritize sound depth or the speed of actuation.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, your preferences and typing habits should heavily guide your choice. If you are drawn to a lighter feel and enjoy a deeper, more thocky sound signature that adds a satisfying auditory dimension to your typing experience, the Canglan V2 might be the perfect fit for you. Its light bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it an excellent option for those who type quickly or prefer a less strenuous keypress, ideal for extended typing sessions or relaxed gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, particularly in gaming scenarios, the Outemu Yellow Silver with its medium-light 55-gram bottom-out force provides a balance of tactile feedback and actuation that can cater to both gamers and typists. Its neutral sound profile also makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to the kind of feel, sound, and response time you desire—so consider what matters most to you in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more