Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to distinct options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch stands out with its innovative CAP structure, which ensures remarkably smooth keystrokes and a buttery feel. The aerodynamically designed stem, complete with tiny holes for efficient air release, allows for minimal resistance, while the enlarged, hollowed-out stem post enhances stability and reduces wobble, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch presents a softer, glimmering nylon housing that contributes to a neutral yet deeply satisfying feel, characterized by its clacky, bouncy, silky, and polished typing sensations. These attributes make the Lucky an appealing option for users looking for a more dynamic and lively feedback on each keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches offer linear characteristics that cater to various preferences, they excel in different areas that may align with individual typing styles. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lucky both utilize nylon for their switch housings, creating a shared foundation that influences the overall auditory experience and tactile feedback during use. With nylon being a classic choice for switch housings, both models ensure a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This similarity is grounded in the material properties of nylon, which is a softer plastic compared to harder alternatives. As a result, both switches deliver a sound that is duller and rounder, absorbing vibrations more effectively and contributing to a more muted, pleasant typing experience.
Both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lucky not only feature nylon for their top housings but also use it in their bottom housings. This consistency in material choice amplifies their acoustic similarities. Once again, the softer nature of nylon aids in attenuating noise and delivering a harmonious auditory response. Whether you're pressing down on a key or letting it return, the combination of both top and bottom housings working together will consistently produce that coveted rich acoustic profile that typists look for in quality switches. The effect of nylon is noticeable in how it slightly softens the feedback feel, contributing to smooth operation regardless of which model is in use.
While both switch models share the same material characteristics, the user experience will hinge on how each manufacturer has tuned the internal mechanisms, such as the spring and stem design. If these components are different, one could expect variations in feel and actuation force, even with the same housing materials. However, since the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Lucky are constructed with nylon in both top and bottom housings, users can anticipate similar resonance qualities and typing acoustics, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience, albeit with potential differences in the tactile sensations based on internal design variations.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch exhibit distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying user preferences for touch and typing experience. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch offers a lighter actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, appealing to those who prefer effortless keystrokes during extended typing sessions or intensive gaming. Consequently, if you're looking for a lighter switch to type comfortably for prolonged periods, the HMX Lucky is the better choice. Conversely, if you favor a stronger push feel for a more engaging typing experience, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow would suit you better. Overall, the contrasting forces highlight the diversity in switch design, allowing users to select based on their typing or gaming preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the differences are noteworthy. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lucky has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the CAP V2 offers a more substantial key press, catering to those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming, which can provide a satisfying tactile feedback. In contrast, the Lucky’s 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances allow for rapid successive key presses. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced depth, the CAP V2 would be the ideal choice, while the HMX Lucky may be better suited for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 offers a bassy profile, characterized by a deep and rich tone that resonates with a lower frequency during key presses. This can provide a sense of depth that many users find satisfying, particularly for those who appreciate a more mellow auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch presents a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, producing a crisp and bright auditory feedback with each keystroke. This percussive quality can be more engaging for users who enjoy an audible confirmation of their typing actions. Therefore, while both switches deliver distinct sound profiles, the choice may depend on whether one prefers the deep richness of bassy sounds or the lively sharpness of clacky tones.
In terms of feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as buttery, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke experience that promotes effortless typing. This smooth sensation can lead to a consistent and uniform typing experience, promoting comfort during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch offers a more dynamic feel characterized as bouncy, silky, and polished. This combination creates a lively and responsive typing experience, where users can feel the spring-like feedback upon each press. The silky and polished descriptors suggest that the Lucky switch excels in providing a refined typing surface with minimized resistance, making every keystroke enjoyable and smooth. Overall, while the CAP V2 prioritizes a sleek and effortless feel, the Lucky switch aims for a lively and engaging typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lucky linear switches present contrasting auditory and tactile experiences. The CAP V2 appeals to those who appreciate a deeper sound with a smooth typing feel, while the Lucky attracts users looking for a bright sound paired with a lively and refined keystroke experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to your style.
Conclusion
To conclude, deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lucky linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow could be your best choice, especially if you value a buttery smooth keystroke that minimizes wobble and provides excellent stability. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a deeper, bassy sound profile and appreciate a satisfying, heavier press during intense typing sessions, such as coding or writing. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter touch for a more effortless typing experience, the HMX Lucky switch, with its 43-gram bottom-out force, may be more suitable. With its soft, bouncy feedback and clacky sound profile, this switch can offer a fun and dynamic experience for casual use, gaming, or if you simply prefer a crisp and snappy feel during your key presses. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you desire a heavier, more stable switch or a lighter, lively one that brings a delightful bounciness to your typing rhythm.
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