Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their distinctive features. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure, while also offering enhanced stability and reduced wobble for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', providing a satisfying auditory feedback for enthusiasts. Both switches have their unique characteristics and are categorized differently in terms of typing feel. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for being 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', while the Hyacinth V2 is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and usage preferences; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow with its nylon top and bottom housing to the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 with a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the main difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. Nylon, known for its softer properties and sound absorption qualities, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile in the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Hyacinth V2 offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the CAP V2 providing a more muffled and round sound, while the Hyacinth V2 offers a clearer and more resonant sound.
Despite the differences in the top housing material between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing material may lead to similar typing experiences in terms of sound when pressing down on the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the nylon bottom housing may provide a consistent deep and full sound profile for both switches, the contrasting polycarbonate and nylon top housings offer distinct sound characteristics. The softer absorption of sound in nylon creates a different typing experience than the stiffer and clearer sound produced by polycarbonate, highlighting the importance of housing materials in the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, we can see some key differences. The Milky Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Hyacinth V2 switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 52 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a more significant push when typing may lean towards the Milky Yellow switch, while those looking for a lighter feel may opt for the Hyacinth V2. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, it is evident that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Hyacinth V2. The longer travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may provide a more substantial feel and response for those who prefer a deeper key press, while the shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth V2 may be favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 for $2.91.
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 Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched tones, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 offers a clacky sound profile, characterized by sharp and snappy key presses. While both switches provide distinct sound qualities, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow leans towards a deeper and richer tonality, whereas the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes a crisp and percussive sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its buttery typing experience, delivering a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation. In contrast, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 is described as creamy, offering a silky and frictionless typing feel that effortlessly glides fingers across the keys. With a polished and silky touch, the Hyacinth V2 provides a refined and smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 both offer unique sound and feel characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of auditory feedback and typing sensation. The Gateron switch excels in providing a deep and rich sound with a buttery typing feel, perfect for those who enjoy a smoother keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Sillyworks switch stands out for its sharp and clacky sound profile, coupled with a creamy and frictionless typing feel that emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches offer quality options that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, you should consider the key factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound with a buttery typing feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and favor a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, or snappy typing feel, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 could be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, so your decision should be based on which characteristics align best with your typing style and preferences.
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