Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow

Overview

When looking at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a unique typing experience for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel, reduced wobble, and 55g actuation weight, providing a satisfying typing experience categorized as silky, buttery, mild, polished. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow features innovative CAP structure for smooth keystrokes, aerodynamically designed stems, and enhanced stability, leading to a typing experience categorized as buttery, thocky, bassy, low-pitched. While both switches offer exceptional qualities, such as reduced wobble and smooth keystrokes, each switch caters to a different typing preference. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow both feature nylon housing materials in their switches, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. However, the Black Lotus stands out with its modified PC & UPE blend top housing, offering a unique and premium feel compared to the classic nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow. While both switches share the benefits of nylon housing in creating a rounder and duller sound profile, the Black Lotus adds a touch of sophistication with its specialized housing material.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Black Lotus and the Milky Yellow utilize nylon, which enhances the overall typing experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound. This shared characteristic between the two switches contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality, regardless of the slight differences in their top housing materials. Overall, the nylon bottom housing in both switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of typing on these switches.

The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch impacts how the typing experience is perceived. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect different aspects of typing, such as the overall sound quality and tactile feedback. While the Black Lotus and Milky Yellow share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, the unique top housing materials of each switch contribute to their individual characteristics and overall typing feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Milky Yellow's 50 grams. However, the Black Lotus has a lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Milky Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, with the Black Lotus leaning slightly towards the lighter side, and the Milky Yellow towards the heavier side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Milky Yellow might be a better choice, whereas those looking for a more substantial push feel may opt for the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide a similar typing experience and results. It is worth noting that having the same travel distance can provide consistency in typing feel for users who may switch between keyboards equipped with either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is known for producing a smooth and satisfying typing experience, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is described as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. Both switches offer a unique sound signature, with the Black Lotus focusing on a refined and pleasant typing sound, and the Milky Yellow emphasizing a deeper and more resonant tone.

In terms of feel, the Black Lotus linear switch is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes, minimizing resistance and providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and consistent typing feel, with the Black Lotus excelling in smoothness and stability, while the Milky Yellow focuses on a fluid and uniform keystroke experience.

Overall, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch stands out for its unparalleled precision, reduced wobble, and unique light column feature, providing a satisfying typing experience with a 55g actuation weight. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch offers a remarkably smooth keystroke experience with an innovative CAP structure, aerodynamically designed stems, and enhanced stability for reduced wobble. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that you can achieve similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with either choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Black Lotus linear switch or the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. If you prioritize smoothness and precision in your typing experience, the Black Lotus may be the right choice for you with its unique light column and reduced wobble. On the other hand, if you prefer switches with a remarkably smooth keystroke and efficient air release for minimal resistance, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow could be the better fit. Additionally, consider the sound profile you prefer; the Black Lotus offers a sound that is still to be determined, while the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall performance.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more