Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Macchiato

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Macchiato represent two compelling choices, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, offering a buttery, thocky, and bassy sound profile that many typists adore. These switches are particularly appreciated for their smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability, making them a favorite for those who prioritize a refined typing feel with minimal wobble. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, is tailored for enthusiasts who seek a silky smooth experience coupled with a bright auditory feedback. While both switches fall into the linear category, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in creating a deeper, more resonant sound, while the Macchiato delivers a more vibrant and lively keystroke. With these contrasts in mind, 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 Macchiato Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Macchiato switches share a commonality in their housing materials, both featuring nylon for the top and bottom housings. This similarity means that both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon's softer nature. The qualities inherent in nylon, such as its sound-absorbing characteristics, contribute to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. Consequently, users of either switch can expect a comparable sound signature, lending a cohesive acoustic experience across both types.

While the housing materials of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Macchiato are the same, the overall typing experience may differ slightly due to other design elements or components within each switch. However, since both switches utilize nylon in their construction, the tactile and auditory feedback will largely echo one another. With both switches exhibiting the same physical properties in terms of their housings, factors such as switch actuation and spring tension might ultimately dictate the feel during gameplay or typing, but the sound characteristics remain aligned due to the nylon composition.

In conclusion, the nylon materials used in both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Macchiato switches ensure that users will enjoy a similar auditory experience. Both switches enhance the acoustic profile due to the inherent properties of nylon, thereby presenting users with the same essential sound quality when typing. As a result, aficionados of mechanical keyboards can confidently choose between the two switches, knowing that the sound and feel related to their nylon housings will maintain a consistent level of enjoyment regardless of their selection.

Weight

The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch present contrasting actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial and deliberate typing experience that some users might appreciate for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato is notably lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a softer feel that caters to those who favor effortless keystrokes and extended use. Thus, for typists seeking a lighter touch, the Macchiato is the better option, while those who prefer a firmer feel may opt for the CAP V2.

Travel distance

The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, you will experience the same amount of key travel, resulting in a similar feel when typing or gaming. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect consistent performance and tactile response from both switches. As a result, whether you prefer one brand over the other, the overall experience in terms of key travel will be identical, allowing for a similar tactile satisfaction.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches deliver a deep, thocky auditory experience, often likened to the comforting thud of a soft knock or a resonant bass tone. Their sound profile is classified with descriptors such as "thocky," "bassy," and "low-pitched," contributing to a rich, satisfying auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato switches do not have a specified sound profile detailed in the available information, leaving room for uncertainty regarding their auditory qualities. It is essential to note that the overall sound will also depend on external factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap material used, so finding a setup that complements either switch will affect your experience.

Regarding their tactile experience, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches bring a buttery feel to the table, allowing for smooth and fluid keystrokes that enhance typing comfort and efficiency. This seamless typing sensation is a defining characteristic that users appreciate. On the other hand, there is no provided information about the feel of the HMX Macchiato switches, making it difficult to draw comparisons in this area. As a result, the tactile quality remains unknown, which is crucial for users who prioritize feel in their typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches are recognized for their distinct thocky sound and buttery feel, the HMX Macchiato switches present a level of mystery in terms of auditory and tactile characteristics due to the lack of available information on their sound and feel. Both switches promise to provide a unique typing experience, but the CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its well-defined qualities, making it an appealing choice for those who value sound and tactile feedback. If you seek similar qualities in the HMX Macchiato, it would be wise to test them personally or consult additional resources to better understand their performance in comparison to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Macchiato linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a more substantial feel with a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is ideal; it offers a buttery typing experience along with a deep, thocky sound profile that many find satisfying, making it especially suitable for those who enjoy a tactile sensation reminiscent of traditional mechanical keyboards. This switch is recommended for typists who appreciate a more pronounced feedback and a stable keystroke due to its innovative design features aimed at reducing wobble. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the HMX Macchiato is the better choice, providing a silky smooth typing experience that feels effortless. Its bright sound profile, while less defined in description, caters well to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory response without the deeper tones of the CAP V2. In conclusion, your choice should reflect your preferred typing pressure, sound characteristics, and overall feel, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is tailored to what you find most enjoyable.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Macchiato Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more