HMX Blue Topaz vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Topaz is praised for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, along with a distinctive glittery housing that adds visual appeal. This linear switch provides an easy-to-press experience with a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch from Gateron stands out for its innovative CAP structure, ensuring remarkably smooth keystrokes. These linear switches have aerodynamically designed stems that minimize resistance for a buttery and thocky typing experience, with enhanced stability and reduced wobble. Both switches offer their own advantages, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow are quite different in terms of their composition and the sound profiles they produce. The Blue Topaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Gateron's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material impacts the overall typing experience and sound feedback of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Topaz and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the switches may still have distinct sound profiles due to the differences in their top housing materials. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, influencing the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The HMX Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a sharp and resonant sound profile, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon top and bottom housing produce a deeper and fuller sound. Although they share a common bottom housing material, the different top housing materials result in distinct sound feedback when typing. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches cater to varying preferences in sound and feel, offering users a choice in their typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz also has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Milky Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue Topaz make it a preferred choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Milky Yellow provide a more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by users seeking a stronger push during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being on the shallower end and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more tactile feel may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky and crisp sound signature, offering users a sharp and snappy feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is described as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the bright and percussive sound of the Blue Topaz or the deep and bass-heavy tones of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This switch provides a gentle resistance during key presses, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is described as buttery, providing users with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches deliver a seamless and uniform typing sensation, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable typing session.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz excels in its clacky sound profile and easy-to-press actuation, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its thocky and buttery feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired outcome. If a user prefers a sharp and snappy sound with light actuation, the Blue Topaz would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if a user values a deep and bass-heavy sound profile with a smooth and fluid keystroke, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a clacky sound profile with a visually striking design, the Blue Topaz may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, along with a thocky and buttery sound profile for a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so consider your priorities when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
