Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, two popular choices among typists and gamers alike are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes and unique CAP structure, which minimizes resistance thanks to its aerodynamically designed stem with tiny air release holes. This not only enhances stability but also reduces wobble, making each keystroke feel refined and solid, providing a rich 'thocky' and 'bassy' sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura switches prioritize discretion with their whisper-quiet operation, akin to the soothing sound of raindrops. With a balanced bottom out force of 53g, these switches cater to users seeking a light yet satisfying typing experience without disturbing others. While both switches offer a linear feel and smooth operation, their distinctive characteristics appeal to different preferences—whether one seeks an audible tactile experience or a silent typing environment. 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 Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g both feature nylon material for their top housings, which provides a similar acoustic profile. This shared material choice results in a deeper, fuller sound when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. The use of nylon in both switches creates a somewhat muted auditory experience, allowing for a rounder sound that many typists appreciate. This characteristic can lead to a more pleasant typing experience, especially in environments where noise levels are a consideration.

However, a significant difference arises when we look at the bottom housing materials: the CAP V2 Milky Yellow uses nylon, while the Silent Sakura - 53g employs polycarbonate. The polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This creates a contrast between the softer sound produced by the nylon housing of the CAP V2 and the crisper sound from the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Sakura. As a result, when bottoming out, the Silent Sakura will deliver a different auditory experience, one that emphasizes clarity over depth.

When considering the effects of the differing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's important to note how their combination impacts typing. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow maintains a more uniform sound profile thanks to both its top and bottom housings being nylon, the HMX Silent Sakura achieves a nuanced experience. Here, you feel the softer characteristics of the nylon top housing during key releases and the sharper qualities of the polycarbonate bottom housing during key presses. Because of this interplay, they each provide distinct experiences while still leveraging some commonality in sound absorption and acoustic qualities due to the nylon top.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the Silent Sakura offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Silent Sakura allows for a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use, whereas the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the CAP V2 provide a more substantial feel, which some typists and gamers may prefer for tactile feedback. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, making it suitable for those who favor a less strenuous keypress during long typing sessions, while the CAP V2 would appeal to those who enjoy a firmer key resistance.

Travel distance

The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that when pressing down on either key, users can expect the same feel in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, if you're looking for a consistent typing experience, switching between these two options will yield similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch can be characterized as "thocky," "bassy," and "low-pitched." This conveys a deep, rich auditory experience with a satisfying depth that resonates akin to a soft "thud" or "knock" upon pressing and releasing the key. This switch is designed to produce satisfying acoustics that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g boasts a whisper-quiet operation reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound dampening in environments where noise reduction is essential. The lack of a specified sound profile for the Silent Sakura indicates that its acoustic nature may lean towards discretion rather than prominent acoustics, creating a stark contrast in auditory experience between the two switches.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a notably buttery sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This seamless typing action enhances comfort and typist satisfaction by allowing for a more effortless touch while typing. The Silent Sakura - 53g, however, does not have a described tactile feel, leaving its typing experience a mystery. Nonetheless, its balanced 53g bottom out force likely caters to those who appreciate a lighter keystroke, potentially offering a type of satisfying feedback akin to other linear switches, though without the specific descriptors that define the tactile experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in both sound and feel, providing a rich, deep acoustic experience alongside a notably smooth typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g focuses on delivering a quiet typing experience, although its tactile quality remains undefined. Typists who value auditory feedback may find the CAP V2 Milky Yellow more satisfying, while those in need of discretion will favor the Silent Sakura. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, but their differences will cater to distinct preferences in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and environment. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a robust sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a thocky, bassy sound that enhances your typing experience. The buttery smooth keystrokes and innovative design of the CAP structure also make it appealing for those who type extensively and seek stability and comfort in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches are designed specifically for stealth, making them ideal for shared spaces or late-night sessions when noise is a concern. Their medium-light bottom out force provides a satisfying yet less strenuous typing feel, allowing you to type comfortably for longer periods. By evaluating your environment and preferences, you can determine which switch aligns better with your typing needs, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience either way.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more