Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems, providing a buttery and thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it clacky and easy-to-press with a delicate 42g actuation force. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers stability and reduced wobble, the HMX Swift provides a unique sound signature and feathery feel. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Swift feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them similar in their sound profile and typing experience. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it's a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound overall, creating a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Despite both switches sharing the same nylon housing material, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Swift may differ in terms of their overall build quality and durability. The thickness of the nylon housing, the design of the switches, and the manufacturing process can all impact how the switches feel and perform over time. Users may notice subtle differences in the sound and feel of typing on these switches, even though they both utilize nylon for their housing components.
It is important to consider the overall design and construction of the switches when comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Swift. While both switches may offer a similar sound profile and typing experience due to their nylon housing, other factors such as stem design, spring weight, and overall switch construction can also play a significant role in the overall feel and performance of the switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Swift is the lighter option. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison. On the other hand, the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can have a significant impact on the typing experience. While some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Swift for extended typing sessions, others may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing force and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This makes the Swift slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the CAP V2. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Swift being on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the Swift for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the CAP V2. Overall, both switches offer a respectable travel distance that can cater to different preferences depending on the user's needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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 is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, producing deep and rich tones during key presses. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and percussive sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Milky Yellow switch leaning towards a deeper and more satisfying sound, while the Swift switch offers a brighter and snappier sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is praised for its buttery keystroke experience, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering a light actuation force and a smooth typing experience. Both switches prioritize different tactile qualities, with the Milky Yellow switch focusing on a smooth and effortless feel, and the Swift switch emphasizing a responsive and low-impact typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow switch boasts a thocky and buttery experience, the Swift switch provides a clacky and easy-to-press sensation. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured that both switches offer high-quality performance that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a smoother keystroke with reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a deeper sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the HMX Swift could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying keyboard experience.
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