HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing and gaming experience. Two prominent options in the linear switch category are the HMX 1989 and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky feel, often described as the pinnacle of the HMX Film switch series, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback during gameplay and typing. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its innovative CAP structure, designed to deliver exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Its aerodynamically engineered stem, complete with tiny air-release holes, minimizes resistance, enhancing the overall typing experience while ensuring greater stability and reduced wobble. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the HMX 1989 appealing to enthusiasts looking for a thocky sound profile and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow attracting those who seek buttery smoothness and refined performance. 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 Game1989 Linear

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches, stark differences emerge in their sound profiles and functionalities. The HMX 1989 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more clear resonance, making it especially effective for switches designed to accommodate RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, which provides a duller and rounder auditory experience, diverging significantly from the characteristics imparted by polycarbonate.

However, when examining the bottom housings of these two switches, an unexpected commonality arises, as both switches employ nylon material for their lower housing. The use of nylon in both cases contributes to a rich and immersive sound profile, as this material absorbs excess noise and produces a deep, full sound. Therefore, when discussing the bottom-out sensation and sound during a keystroke, the nylon bottom housings yield similar results despite differences in the top housings. This commonality indicates that while the auditory experiences may differ when engaged with the switches, both designs emphasize comfort and sound quality through the use of nylon.

In summary, the varying characteristics of the top housings of the HMX 1989 and Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches create distinct auditory profiles, yet the use of nylon in both bottom housings allows for comparable depth and fullness in sound. When typing on either switch, users can expect the nylon housing to contribute to a soothing bottom-out sound, regardless of the sharper tones from the polycarbonate top or the mellower notes from the nylon top. This interplay between the materials highlights how different compositions can create varied user experiences while also maintaining a level of consistency through shared materials.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged use may gravitate towards the HMX 1989 for its lower forces, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing might prefer the heavier Gateron switch, which provides a firmer push-back. Overall, the HMX 1989 is the lighter option, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a heftier typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users will experience the same key press depth when engaging either switch, contributing to a consistent feel while typing or gaming. Since both switches have the same travel distance, you can expect a comparable response and actuation when pressing the keys, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a linear switch experience without any variance in depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX 1989 is renowned for its thockiness, delivering a deep and satisfying auditory experience often described as a "thud" or soft "knock" upon each keypress. This quality makes it especially appealing to users who enjoy a rich sound profile while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow also emphasizes a thocky and bassy characteristic, producing a deeper and more resonant tone during key presses. With its low-pitched sound profile, it shares similarities with the 1989, offering a fulfilling auditory feedback that many enthusiasts seek. However, it's important to note that the overall sound a switch produces can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the keycap material used.

In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 provides a highly coveted typing experience recognized for its stability and smoothness, though specific descriptors were not provided. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its buttery feel, characterized by a seamless and fluid keystroke that allows for effortless typing. This sensation is enhanced by its aerodynamically designed stem, which minimizes resistance and wobble, aiming for a refined typing experience. While details are limited for the HMX 1989, it can be noted that both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.

In conclusion, the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch cater to enthusiasts seeking specific auditory and tactile qualities. Both switches boast a thocky and material-rich sound profile, making them appealing for those who appreciate auditory feedback. While the feeling of the HMX 1989 remains less explicitly detailed, the Gateron switch's buttery keystroke constitutes its strength. Ultimately, users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches, making them solid contenders for those venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you're after. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a thocky sound profile accompanied by a satisfying and deep feel, the HMX 1989 is an excellent option for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or for gaming, where rapid key presses are essential. However, if you’re after a more stable and heavier typing experience with buttery smooth keystrokes, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow might be the way to go. The 65-gram bottom-out force provides a firmer feedback while typing, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile sensation and prefer deeper, richer sound profiles. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the overall aesthetics you seek; both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more