Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its smooth keystrokes and innovative CAP structure, providing a buttery and thocky typing experience ideal for those seeking stability and reduced wobble. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal stands out for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, offering a linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal, it is evident that they both offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The nylon top housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While the Milky Yellow offers a more subdued typing experience, the Crystal delivers a more vibrant and precise sound output.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches continue to showcase the differences between nylon and polycarbonate materials. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow maintains a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing counterpart. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Crystal contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, emphasizing clarity and resonance. This distinction in sound profiles between the bottom housings of the two switches further highlights the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal may differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a range of auditory experiences that enhance the overall typing sensation.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, we find that the Milky Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Crystal's 45 grams, making the Crystal the lighter option. When it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow again requires more force at 65 grams compared to the Crystal's 55 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with slightly heavier forces, while the Crystal offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler feel. Both switches offer a medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel, with weight being a key factor to consider.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent experience in terms of key travel, allowing for smooth and precise keystrokes. Whether you choose the Gateron or Outemu switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. This makes them both ideal choices for those who prefer a shorter key travel distance for a more responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40.
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 Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound, giving a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart. When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation. On the other hand, the Crystal switch is noted for its polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In conclusion, while the two switches offer different sound and feel qualities, they both provide a premium typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Depending on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel, they can choose between the thocky and buttery Milky Yellow switch or the chirpy and polished Crystal switch to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches aim to elevate the typing experience and cater to the diverse preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile with a buttery typing feel, then the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile with a polished and smooth typing experience, then the Outemu Crystal may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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