Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance due to its innovative CAP structure, making it a great choice for those looking for a low-pitched, thocky typing experience with enhanced stability. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that offers a budget-friendly option with a lively and clacky sound profile, paired with smooth and tactile feedback, ideal for users who enjoy a bouncy and polished typing sensation. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The absorption of sound by the nylon material creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This similarity in housing material suggests that the overall typing experience in terms of sound profile may be quite similar between the two switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow features nylon while the V3 Cream Blue Pro features polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the more muted sound produced by the nylon top housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. The difference in housing material at the top of the switch will significantly impact the sound profile when typing, making the V3 Cream Blue Pro potentially more appealing to those seeking a more distinct and resonant typing experience.
Overall, while both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the difference in material used for the top housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon top housing will provide a softer and more muted typing experience, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro's polycarbonate top housing will deliver a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users may prefer one switch over the other based on the housing material used in their design.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch. The Milky Yellow requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Cream Blue Pro only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Blue Pro for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Milky Yellow. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their preference for typing intensity.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro. The Gateron switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Akko switch falls on the shallower end of the spectrum. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akko switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gateron option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and individual typing or gaming style, as both offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 linear switch is best described as having a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile right out of the box, delivering a lively and audible feedback that is complemented by a smooth typing experience. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors including the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as providing a buttery typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, providing a medium amount of tactility without being overly tactile, along with a spring-like feedback that gives a lively rebound when pressed. This results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Milky Yellows from Gateron provide a deep and rich sound with a buttery typing feel, while the Akko Cream Blue Pro V3 switches offer a poppy and clacky sound paired with an accented and bouncy tactile sensation. Both switches deliver a smooth typing experience but cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and stability from both switches, with the difference lying in the sound and tactile feedback they provide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, there are some key factors to consider. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and prefer a smooth keystroke with reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying clicks and keystrokes of your new mechanical keyboard switch.
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