Kailh Box Navy vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Navy is ideal for those who desire a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound signature and pronounced tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow from Gateron provides a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal resistance due to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. The Box Navy is characterized by its sharp, resonant, and crunchy feel, while the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its buttery, thocky, and low-pitched keystrokes. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, it is evident that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deep and full sound profile when typing due to nylon's ability to absorb sound. However, the top housing of the Box Navy is made of polycarbonate, while the CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing. The Box Navy's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound since nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in top housing materials will result in a distinct sound signature for each switch.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Kailh Box Navy and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Box Navy allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper typing sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow creates a softer and more muffled sound, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the top housing materials may differ, the nylon bottom housings of both switches ensure a deep and full sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feel for users.
In terms of construction, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in its overall sound profile and typing feel. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the actuation and bottom-out sound and feel. With the Kailh Box Navy featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow sporting a nylon top housing, users will feel a difference in sound when pressing down and releasing a key. The contrast between the sharper, crisper sound of the Box Navy and the duller, rounder sound of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow showcases how housing materials can influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch differ in weight, with the Box Navy being heavier. The Box Navy has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 90 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In comparison, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Milky Yellow switch may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier forces of the Box Navy switch cater to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this comparison, it is clear that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance than the CAP V2. The shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances can lead to quicker key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the CAP V2 may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50, whereas the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10.
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 Kailh Box Navy switch is well-known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, offering a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch provides a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, with smooth and efficient keystrokes due to its aerodynamically designed stems. When it comes to feel, the Box Navy offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump, perfect for those who enjoy a heavy typing feel. In contrast, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a buttery and uniform typing sensation, emphasizing smooth and fluid keystrokes for a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch excels in providing a robust, tactile typing experience with a resonant sound profile, ideal for users seeking a heavy and immersive typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch stands out for its smooth and efficient keystrokes, offering a thocky and bassy sound profile that delivers a satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer a crunchy and sharp sound with a strong tactile feedback or a buttery and smooth typing experience, both switches provide excellent options to enhance your typing setup. Ultimately, choosing between the Kailh Box Navy and Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches depends on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a heavy typing experience with a sharp, resonant sound profile and a strong tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, buttery typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force and a thocky, bassy sound profile, then the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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