Huano Acacia vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the choice between the Huano Acacia and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow can be quite compelling. The Huano Acacia, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, which combine to deliver a delightful typing experience with minimal stem wobble right from the start. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow also falls into the linear category but distinguishes itself with its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, which not only enhances smoothness but also reduces resistance, resulting in an incredibly buttery feel. While the Acacia is a great choice for those seeking a straightforward and gratifying typing experience, the Milky Yellow caters to enthusiasts looking for a refined touch with a low-pitched thocky sound. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Acacia Linear

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.39 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches exhibit notable differences, particularly in their top housings. The Acacia features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure that tends to create a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This material’s translucency not only enhances the aesthetic appearance of the switch when paired with RGB lighting but also contributes to a crisper auditory experience as you type. In contrast, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow employs a nylon top housing, a material that produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound signature that is rounder and less piercing, which can appeal to users who prefer less harsh auditory feedback during typing.

Both switches, however, utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to some similarities despite the differences in the top housings. The nylon material is known for its capacity to absorb sound, imparting a deep and rich auditory experience on the keypress. This shared bottom housing characteristic means that both switches will elicit a comparable bottom-out sound and feel, regardless of the variance in their top materials. Consequently, when typing on either switch, the deeper sound signature from the nylon bottom housing will largely determine the tactile feedback experienced during key presses.

When considering the overall sound experience, the distinct contributions of the top and bottom housings come into play. The differences in the top housing materials between the Acacia and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow create disparate sound profiles when a key is released — with the polycarbonate providing a sharp and resonant feedback, and the nylon yielding a fuller, rounded sound. However, since both switches share the same bottom housing material, users can expect a common depth and quality to the sounds produced during key presses. Thus, those seeking to maintain a balanced typing experience may find similar auditory results while still enjoying the unique sound qualities offered by each switch’s top housing.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces can be observed. The Acacia switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more effortless keystroke ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. Additionally, the bottom out force reflects this trend, with the Acacia at 55 grams and the CAP V2 at 65 grams. This means the Acacia switch is not only lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces but is also more suitable for users seeking a softer touch. Conversely, the CAP V2 is heavier, catering to those who favor a firmer typing experience. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter option for comfort during long usage, the Huano Acacia is the better choice, while the Gateron CAP V2 appeals to those who enjoy a heavier, more resilient feel.

Travel distance

The Huano Acacia linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Acacia the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that may appeal to gamers who favor rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, with its longer travel distance, offers a more traditional feel that some users might find more satisfying due to the added depth. The difference in travel distances highlights the diverging preferences among users: those who prioritize speed may gravitate towards the shorter Acacia switch, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Gateron switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual typing habits and preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch’s acoustic properties remain unspecified in this comparison. However, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is characterized by a rich and enjoyable auditory profile. It produces a deep, thocky sound that is satisfying to the user, akin to a soft knock or thud upon keypress. This switch’s sound is further enhanced by a bassy and low-pitched quality, providing a tone that resonates with a fuller, more enriched audio experience. It's important to note that the perception of sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Acacia’s tactile characteristics are also not explicitly detailed. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its buttery smoothness. This descriptor indicates that the switch allows for a fluid and seamless keystroke experience, making typing feel more effortless and enjoyable. The engineered design of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, which includes a specially shaped stem, contributes to a refined typing sensation and minimizes wobble, enhancing overall stability.

In summary, while the Huano Acacia linear switch offers an appealing typing experience with medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, its specific attributes in terms of sound and feel remain unspecified compared to the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch. The Milky Yellow not only provides a thocky, bassy sound profile but also excels with its buttery smooth keystrokes. Overall, users can expect solid performance from both switches, especially if the qualities of smoothness and stability are prioritized. Each switch has its unique charm, making them suitable choices for different preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and the experience you’re seeking. If you prefer a lighter touch with a more immediate and responsive feel, the Acacia switch will likely serve you well, especially given its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble that provides an excellent typing experience right out of the box. This makes the Acacia a great choice for prolonged typing sessions and for users who may require a softer actuation force. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a richer auditory feedback coupled with a slightly firmer touch, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow might be the better pick. Its medium-heavy resistance, innovative design for reduced wobble, and thocky, bassy sound will appeal to those who enjoy a satisfying keypress experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, and your decision should reflect whether you value a lighter, smoother typing sensation with the Acacia or a more robust and acoustically engaging experience with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

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Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more