Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Cloud - 50g

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options to suit their typing preferences, and two intriguing choices are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cloud - 50g, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its innovative CAP structure, designed for buttery smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability due to its uniquely designed stem. This switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound, appealing to those who favor a more solid and bassy typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g is tailored for users who thrive on a lighter, more clacky sound profile, making it a fantastic choice for those who relish a bright and airy typing sensation. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow focuses on minimizing resistance and enhancing stability, the Cloud - 50g highlights a silky smooth feel that caters to a different auditory and tactile preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Cloud - 50g switches feature identical housing materials, specifically nylon, for both their top and bottom housings. This commonality is significant as nylon is recognized as a classic material in switch design, highly favored for its acoustic properties. The use of nylon in both cases leads to a similar sound experience—typists will notice a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. This characteristic arises from nylon's relatively softer composition compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and resulting in a duller, rounder auditory feedback. Consequently, users can expect a uniform typing sound between these two switches, enhancing their experience during use.

Despite having the same housing materials, any differences in the relevant switching technologies or internal mechanisms between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cloud - 50g could lead to varied tactile feedback or actuation forces. However, the fact that both switches employ nylon housing means the acoustic experience will remain consistent. Given that these housings absorb sound effectively, the overall typing noise is softened and smoothed out, providing a pleasant auditory environment during typing sessions. Users might find both switches equally enjoyable if their main focus is on sound dampening, regardless of potential differences in tactile feedback or actuation force.

In terms of functionality, the similar nylon top and bottom housings ensure that the qualities related to sound absorption and resonance are preserved in both switch types. This means that when a user presses down on either switch, they will experience the pronounced impact of the bottom housing, which shapes the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, upon releasing a key, the softer nylon top housing contributes to the sound experienced as the key returns to its resting position. This layering of acoustic properties ensures that typing on either the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or HMX Cloud - 50g provides a satisfying experience, even if other non-housing factors differ. Thus, users can achieve a similar auditory and tactile satisfaction by choosing either switch based merely on personal preference or other specific qualities that may appeal to them.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g offers a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This weighting makes the Cloud switch lighter in feel, appealing to those who favor a less strenuous typing experience, such as professionals who type for extended periods or gamers seeking performance during long sessions. Conversely, the V2 Milky Yellow's higher forces provide a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users prefer for a substantial typing experience. Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 is the heavier switch, while the HMX Cloud - 50g is lighter, catering to different user preferences regarding typing feel and comfort.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, notable differences emerge. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Cloud - 50g features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. This 0.1 mm difference indicates that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a more traditional, deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Cloud - 50g, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to gamers who favor quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you appreciate the depth provided by the longer switch or the swift response engaged by the shorter one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches is renowned for its deep and rich acoustics, generating a thocky and bassy sound that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a satisfying auditory experience. The low-pitched character of these switches produces a mellow tone that can be reminiscent of a well-tuned instrument, making each keystroke feel substantial and fulfilling. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g switches do not have a defined sound profile listed, leaving their acoustic characteristics somewhat unknown. However, it is worth noting that sound is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard construction and keycap material, which means that users might achieve a personalized auditory experience regardless of the switch type.

When it comes to the feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches shine with a buttery smooth keystroke, designed to deliver an effortless and seamless typing sensation. The aerodynamically designed stems with reduced friction contribute to this fluidity, making typing not just functional but enjoyable. The HMX Cloud - 50g switches’ tactile feel is also not specifically defined, leaving curiosity regarding its unique attributes. However, it can be anticipated that as a linear switch, it aims for a smooth keystroke experience akin to that of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, although specific nuances in texture and action may vary.

In summary, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a rich auditory experience with its thocky, bassy sound and an exceptionally smooth feel that enhances typing pleasure. While the HMX Cloud - 50g lacks detailed information on sound and feel, its linear nature suggests it may provide a similarly smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and users may find satisfaction with either based on their individual priorities in sound and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Cloud - 50g switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a medium-heavy linear switch that offers a smooth, buttery typing experience coupled with a satisfying thocky sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent choice. This switch is ideal for those who value stability and tactile feedback, making it perfect for both typing and gaming situations where you need precise keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that gives you a more responsive feel with a clacky sound profile, the HMX Cloud - 50g could be more suited to your tastes. This switch is great for fast-paced gaming or for users who enjoy a bright and lively typing experience without the heaviness of a higher bottom-out force. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how you'll be using your keyboard and what kind of feedback you find most enjoyable.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more