Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Aflion Carrot
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Carrot switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Carrot, you'll encounter two very different mechanical keyboard switch experiences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch renowned for its remarkably smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure. With aerodynamically designed stems and an enlarged, hollowed-out stem post, this switch provides enhanced stability and reduced wobble. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot offers a tactile typing experience with a bouncy feel, thanks to its long, two-stage spring. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is buttery and low-pitched, the Carrot switch is clacky, high-pitched, and bouncy. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. 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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Carrot, one significant difference lies in their top housing material. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for its top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Carrot features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction in material contributes to a noticeable difference in the overall sound experience between the two switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to their bottom housing, both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Carrot share a similar nylon material. This common choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for typing on switches utilizing nylon material. As nylon is relatively softer and absorbs more sound, both switches benefit from a duller and rounder sound quality. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights how certain housing materials can yield comparable results in sound characteristics, despite differences in other components of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound output and overall typing experience. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Carrot may differ in their top housing material, both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon in their bottom housing. Understanding how different materials contribute to sound profiles can help enthusiasts make informed decisions on the type of switch that best suits their preferences and typing style. Whether it be a softer nylon or a stiffer polycarbonate, the housing material is an essential factor in shaping the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their weight. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Carrot tactile switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier and lighter to type on. This means that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is the heavier option, providing a more substantial press feel, while the Aflion Carrot switch is lighter and ideal for those looking for a smoother typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two switches based on whether they prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that you will get a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Therefore, both switches offer a consistent and reliable travel distance, ensuring a familiar feel regardless of which switch you choose. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Carrot switches are equal in this aspect, providing users with a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Carrot has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Carrot for $3.57.
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 Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Carrot switch produces a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp, bright, and clean auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard and keycaps, you can choose the sound profile that best suits your typing style.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Carrot switch provides a bouncy, snappy, stepped, feathery, and subtle feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation with responsive keystrokes. If you prefer a more lively and responsive typing feel, the Aflion Carrot switch might be the better choice for you.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Aflion Carrot switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a smooth and stable keystroke with a thocky and bassy sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch delivers a bouncy and tactile typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preference for sound and typing feel, as both can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the Aflion Carrot tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke experience with minimal wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy tactile experience with a firm sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch could be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be more appealing to you. Conversely, if you prefer switches with a clacky, marbly, and high-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Carrot switch might be more to your liking. Overall, consider how you enjoy your typing experience in terms of feel, sound, and actuation force to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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