HMX Canglan V2 vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Yunhai both stand out as exceptional linear options, each offering unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Canglan V2 is celebrated for its thocky sound profile, delivering a rich and deep auditory feedback that HMX enthusiasts crave, coupled with a smooth and light feel that enhances the typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a satisfying audio experience along with a tactile yet gentle actuation. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai offers a distinct typing experience characterized by its incredibly light actuation force and rounded sound signature, making it particularly appealing to typists who favor an effortless typing style. While both switches cater to users seeking a linear feel, their sound profiles and actuation forces set them apart in the realm of comfort and auditory satisfaction. 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

TTC Yunhai Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Yunhai both utilize nylon as their housing material, both for the top and bottom sections of the switches. This commonality leads to a comparable typing experience, as nylon is known for its sound-dampening qualities due to being a relatively softer plastic. When typing on both switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely because nylon naturally absorbs more sound than harder plastics, which results in a rounder and less resonant auditory feedback when keys are pressed and released.

In terms of their acoustic properties, both the Canglan V2 and the Yunhai exhibit similar sound characteristics stemming from their identical material composition. With nylon throughout, users will encounter a muted bottom-out sound on both switches that contributes to a more pleasant and less jarring typing experience. The softer material also ensures that the tactile feedback remains consistent, allowing for a sound that feels cohesive with each keystroke, reinforcing the overall typing experience as being both smooth and enjoyable.

However, while both the Canglan V2 and the Yunhai utilize nylon, if the switches had differing materials for the top and bottom housings, the acoustic and tactile results would diverge accordingly. Since both switches share the same nylon material, users can anticipate uniform characteristics in both bottoming out and releasing of the keys. This uniformity allows for predictability in the typing experience, meaning that users who prefer a consistent sound profile will find little to distinguish between the two in practical usage. The sound and feel produced will be shaped by the nylon's inherent qualities, making both switches suitable for those seeking a rich and rounded typing sound.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we find some notable similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches feature the same actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally light in terms of keystroke activation, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the Canglan V2 has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Yunhai’s is at 50 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar light feel during typing, the Yunhai switch requires a marginally heavier force for bottoming out, potentially offering a more substantial tactile experience. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter touch overall, the Canglan V2 might be the better option, while the Yunhai could appeal to those who appreciate a slightly firmer feel at the bottom of the keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Canglan V2 linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we find that they differ slightly. The Canglan V2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yunhai offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. As a result, gamers looking for quicker response times might lean towards the Canglan V2 due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster keypresses. Conversely, the Yunhai, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who appreciate a deeper keypress experience. Therefore, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Canglan V2 is the shorter option, and the Yunhai is the longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Canglan V2 linear switch has a satisfying deep sound signature, often referred to as thocky, which provides an engaging auditory experience for enthusiasts. This sound profile is attributed to the careful selection of materials and improved molding techniques, giving it a resonance that many find enjoyable. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch boasts a deep, rounded sound profile which produces a unique auditory environment, complementing its typing experience. Both switches are engineered to provide a pleasant sound, but the Canglan V2 leans more towards a pronounced thocky tone, while the Yunhai’s sound is characterized by its rounded quality. It’s important to note that the overall sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard it’s used with, as well as the choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Canglan V2 is designed for a smooth and light typing experience, appealing to users who favor responsiveness without significant resistance. This makes it a great choice for prolonged typing sessions, where comfort is key. The TTC Yunhai, on the other hand, also offers an incredibly light actuation force, presenting an effortless feel that further enhances its appeal for typists who enjoy a gentle touch. While both switches provide a lightweight experience, the Canglan V2 emphasizes smoothness, whereas the Yunhai prioritizes an effortless actuation, creating slightly different tactile experiences.

In conclusion, both the HMX Canglan V2 and TTC Yunhai linear switches offer compelling auditory and tactile experiences, with the Canglan V2 providing a thocky deep sound and a smooth light feel, while the Yunhai presents a rounded sound profile combined with an incredibly light actuation. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound characteristics and tactile feedback. Regardless of your choice, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying performance, though the specific nuances in sound and feel will create distinct typing sensations.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Canglan V2 and the TTC Yunhai linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who values a deep, thocky sound signature and desires a smooth, effortless typing experience with slightly lighter actuation, the Canglan V2 will be your go-to option. Its meticulous design caters to those who appreciate an enhanced auditory feedback coupled with a comfortable keystroke that ensures a delightfully light and tactile engagement. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that prioritizes an effortless actuation combined with a rounded sound profile, the Yunhai would be the better fit for you. Its slightly heavier bottom-out force still results in a very light and enjoyable typing experience, ideal for long sessions where a more muted and gentle sound is preferred. So, consider what you prioritize in your typing experience—deep sounds and smoothness with the Canglan V2 or effortless actuation and rounded acoustics with the Yunhai—before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Canglan V2 Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more