Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Xinhai are two popular options to choose from. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is lauded for its innovative CAP structure, providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes that release air efficiently, minimizing resistance. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post enhances stability and reduces wobble, resulting in a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Xinhai is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy'. Each switch offers its own set of advantages and characteristics, catering to different preferences and 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
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Xinhai, it is evident that they differ in terms of the materials used. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Xinhai features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. This variance in materials results in different sound profiles when typing on the switches. The nylon housing of the Milky Yellow creates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the polycarbonate housing of the Xinhai produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate in the Xinhai allows for better RGB lighting effects compared to the opaque nylon of the Milky Yellow.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Xinhai, both switches share a common trait in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This similarity means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics. The impact of the bottom housing on the sound and feel of keystrokes will be consistent between the two switches, providing a familiar typing experience regardless of the top housing material used. However, the varying top housing materials of nylon for the Milky Yellow and polycarbonate for the Xinhai will result in subtle differences in sound when releasing a key.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Xinhai differ in terms of their top housing composition, both switches offer a similar sound profile due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience for both switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai provides a sharper and crisper sound compared to the more rounded sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai is the lighter of the two, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is heavier, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches offers distinct typing experiences, with the Xinhai providing a lighter touch for extended typing sessions and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offering a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Milky Yellow switch has a longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch has a shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. Whether you go for the shorter or longer travel distance, you can expect to get a similar level of performance from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 switch is known for its thocky and bassy characteristics, producing a deep and rich sound profile with each key press. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as clacky, offering a sharper and more percussive sound. Depending on personal preference, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may provide a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience, while the Xinhai may offer a crisper and brighter sound output.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is characterized as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like rebound sensation and a silky smooth typing feel. Individuals who enjoy a more uniform and effortless typing experience may lean towards the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, while those who prefer a livelier and rebounding key press may find the Xinhai to be more to their liking.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Xinhai switches each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery typing feel, the Xinhai switch offers a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience. Regardless of the decision, both switches are designed to enhance typing performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smoother keystroke experience with reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a unique sound profile with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound characteristics.
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