Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes thanks to the innovative CAP structure, aerodynamically designed stems, and enhanced stability. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, offering a bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Lotus switch lacks specific categorization. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences, typing habits, and the desired typing experience. 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
45g
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
3.50 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-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lotus both feature nylon top and bottom housings, which means that they will produce a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon as a housing material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches are likely to have a pleasant typing experience with a softer and more muted sound compared to switches made with harder plastics.
However, despite the similarities in housing materials, there may still be differences in the overall feel and sound of the switches. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in each switch will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the qualities of the nylon top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing materials may result in subtle variations in the typing experience between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lotus, even though they share the same nylon housing material.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lotus both use nylon top and bottom housings, they may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to the distribution of these housing materials within the switch. Both switches are likely to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer and more muted sound, but the impact of the nylon top and bottom housings may result in nuanced differences in feel and sound during typing. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style may play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit for individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a medium-heavy typing experience, providing a more substantial push feel, whereas the Lotus offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Lotus more suitable for extended typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is clear that the CAP V2 has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Lotus at 3.5 mm. The CAP V2 offers a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, providing a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Lotus offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both options cater to different preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the Lotus allowing for quick key presses, while the longer travel distance of the CAP V2 offers a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the HMX Lotus comes in at $3.49.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX Lotus linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offering a rich and bass-heavy sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid typing experience that is seamless and effortless. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is unknown, making it challenging to compare the two switches in this regard. Nonetheless, with a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a super bouncy feeling, the Lotus switch is likely to offer a satisfying tactile feedback that complements its bright and resonant sound.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes, minimal resistance, enhanced stability, and deep, rich sound, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch stands out for its medium weight, bouncy feeling, and bright sound, providing a delightful typing experience. While direct comparisons in terms of sound and feel are not possible due to limited information on the Lotus switch, users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and satisfaction from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the HMX Lotus will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smoother keystroke, enhanced stability, and a thocky, bassy sound profile, then the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a super bouncy feel and a bright, resonant sound, then the HMX Lotus linear switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
