Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cheese mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its smooth keystrokes, stability, and reduced wobble due to its innovative CAP structure. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese stands out for its exceptional smoothness, satisfying clacky sound, and ultra-lightweight design. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its buttery and thocky feel, the HMX Cheese is characterized by its lightness and crisp sound signature. Ultimately, the decision of which switch to choose depends on personal preferences and typing style. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cheese feature nylon top and bottom housings, which results in a similar typing experience for both switches. The nylon material used in both switches is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
While both switches share the same nylon material for their top and bottom housings, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cheese may differ in other aspects such as the stem and spring mechanism. These differences can impact the overall feel and sound of the switches when typing. However, the nylon housing in both switches plays a significant role in contributing to the overall typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its sound-absorbing properties.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cheese showcase the benefits of using nylon as a housing material for switches. Both switches offer a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the nylon top and bottom housings. While there may be differences in other components of the switches, such as the stem and spring mechanism, the nylon housing remains a consistent factor that contributes to the overall typing feel and sound of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is clear that the Cheese switch is lighter in both regards. The Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, indicating a lighter touch overall. Some users may prefer the lighter Cheese switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milky Yellow switch with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a longer travel distance compared to the Cheese switch. The 4.0mm travel distance on the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is more traditional, offering a deeper keypress feel, while the 3.5mm travel distance on the Cheese switch provides a slightly shallower keypress. Gamers may prefer the Cheese switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow for a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, information about the sound of the HMX Cheese linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference and setup.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is praised for its buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the feel of the HMX Cheese linear switch, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this category. Despite this, both switches likely offer distinct tactile feedback and responsiveness that can cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Cheese linear switches have their own set of subjective qualities that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Milky Yellow is known for its smooth keystrokes and innovative design, the Cheese switch boasts a unique sound signature and ultra-light feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. With similar results in different aspects, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the HMX Cheese linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and stable typing experience with a thocky and bassy sound profile, then the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire an ultra-light switch with a satisfying clacky sound signature, then the HMX Cheese switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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