Bsun Pine vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Pine and Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offer distinct experiences catered to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is praised for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense tactility that appeals to those who value precise feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch stands out for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. While the Pine switch is categorized as accented and sharp, the Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery and low-pitched. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow keyboards both offer unique characteristics that can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Milky Yellow's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness. This contrast in materials results in a distinct typing experience for each keyboard, with the Pine offering a crisper sound and the Milky Yellow offering a more rounded sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Pine and the Milky Yellow utilize nylon material, which results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softness of the nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile for both keyboards. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the impact on the typing experience when pressing down on the switch will be consistent between the two keyboards, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow keyboards differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, the bottom housing materials remain the same, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The distinct characteristics of each housing material contribute to the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, with the top housing impacting the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both keyboards offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Pine requires a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Milky Yellow's 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. This means that while the Pine may feel lighter to type on initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the keys are fully pressed. Some users may prefer the Pine for its lighter actuation force, which allows for longer typing sessions, while others may lean towards the Milky Yellow for a stronger push feel and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milky Yellow switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Pine switch. The shorter travel distance of the Pine switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is often described as having a sharp and satisfying click with a distinct audible feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is known for producing a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deeper and richer acoustic experience. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback, with the Pine switch leaning towards a sharper click while the Milky Yellow switch provides a smoother and more mellow sound.
Moving on to the feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is praised for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a firm actuation force and a snappy typing experience that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is seamless and effortless. While the Pine switch emphasizes a pronounced and responsive tactile feedback, the Milky Yellow switch prioritizes a smooth and consistent typing feel.
Considering all the available information, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch offer contrasting but equally commendable characteristics. The Pine switch excels in providing sharp tactile feedback and a distinct clicking sound, appealing to users who prefer a direct and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow switch stands out for its buttery smoothness and thocky sound profile, catering to those who prioritize a smooth and consistent keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a sharp tactile feedback with a quick bottom-out and a distinct typing experience, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth keystroke with minimized resistance and enhanced stability for a refined typing feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel when choosing between these two switches to find the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what matters most to you in your typing experience.
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