Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that offer unique benefits, such as the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Perky. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its innovative design, featuring a specialized CAP structure that ensures remarkably smooth keystrokes and reduced wobble during use. With its buttery, thocky, and bassy acoustics, this linear switch delivers an enriching auditory experience alongside its enhanced stability. In contrast, the HMX Perky, crafted with softer nylon housings, presents a typing experience that's refreshingly neutral and deeply satisfying, characterized by its shorter travel distance for a more condensed keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences within the linear switch category—while the Milky Yellow excels in smoothness and stability, the Perky offers a quick, satisfying response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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 extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Perky switches both feature nylon as their primary housing material, which significantly contributes to their auditory characteristics during typing. This use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, a quality appreciated by enthusiasts seeking a rich auditory feedback from their mechanical switches. Nylon's inherent properties allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. Since both switch types utilize nylon for their housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience characterized by a warm sound signature when typing.
Despite the similarities in their material choices, each switch may have differing designs that could influence performance nuances. For example, if the bottom housing were engineered differently in either switch, it would contribute distinct tactile sensations during a key press while still benefiting from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. The bottom housing plays a critical role in the key's bottom-out sound and feel, potentially giving a more pronounced sensation with one switch over the other. Nonetheless, the overall sound profile remains consistent due to the shared nylon material, ensuring users of both switches experience comparable acoustic properties that are desirable in mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and HMX Perky switches reflect a commitment to utilizing nylon as a classic switch housing material. While overall performance may vary due to other design elements, the shared advantages of nylon in dampening sound reinforce a commonality that fans of mechanical switches can appreciate. Hence, users can obtain a satisfying typing experience with either option, celebrating the deep sound quality and tactile feedback that nylon switches, in general, are celebrated for.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. Conversely, the HMX Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This distinction means that typists who favor a softer touch for extended use or gaming might prefer the Perky switch, while those who appreciate a more substantial push and tactile feedback may opt for the CAP V2. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding the weight and feel of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance reflects the preferences of various users. The CAP V2, with its 4 mm travel, offers a more traditional and deeper experience, appealing to those who enjoy a substantial feel when bottoming out a key. In contrast, the HMX Perky, with its 3.4 mm travel, caters to gamers and users seeking quick response times, as shorter travel distances can enhance speed and efficiency during use. Therefore, individuals looking for a more responsive feel might prefer the Perky, while those favoring a deeper keystroke would likely gravitate towards the CAP V2. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding feedback and travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky 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
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch produces a distinctive sound profile characterized as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched. This switch emits a deep, rich tone that gives the auditory feedback of a "thud" or soft "knock," providing a satisfying experience with each keystroke. It's designed to enhance the sound experience for users who prefer a deeper and more resonant typing audio. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the HMX Perky switch remain unknown, which may imply a potentially quieter or different tonal quality. As the auditory experience can be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps, it’s essential to test both switches in various setups to determine their actual sound output.
In terms of feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is noted for its buttery smoothness, allowing for a seamless and fluid typing experience. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for long typing sessions as it promotes a comfortable and enjoyable feel with each keystroke. The reduced wobble and enhanced stability of the switch also contribute to a more refined tactile response. Conversely, there’s no information available about the feel of the HMX Perky switch, which makes it difficult to compare directly. However, its description suggests a neutral and satisfying typing experience, hinting at a competent yet distinct touch that might cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow clearly stands out with its rich sound and buttery feel, the HMX Perky switch presents an uncertain quality in both sound and feel. Users can expect the CAP Milky Yellow to deliver a satisfying auditory and tactile experience that enhances typing pleasure, whereas the Perky switch may offer a different yet potentially enjoyable typing experience. To ultimately determine the right switch for you, personal testing is recommended, as both sound and feel can vary significantly depending on the keyboard setup and the user’s preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Perky linear switches, consider your typing preferences and use cases. If you prefer a heavier feel with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent choice, thanks to its buttery smooth keystrokes, enhanced stability, and satisfying thocky sound profile that can elevate your typing experience, especially if you enjoy a deeper, more resonant acoustic feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the HMX Perky will likely be more appealing, offering a more condensed typing experience with a satisfying neutral feel thanks to its softer nylon housing. The Perky's smoother, quicker keystrokes are ideal if you’re focused on speed, gaming, or prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing without fatigue. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value tactile weight and sound depth or a quick, light typing experience—both of which cater to different styles and preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
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