Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Everglide Crystal Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Crystal Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Crystal Violet mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and functionality. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch renowned for its remarkably smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet is a tactile switch specifically crafted for a light operating force of 45g, offering a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile. While the Milky Yellow is best suited for those who prefer a buttery and bassy typing experience, the Crystal Violet appeals to individuals seeking a creamy and mild tactile feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Crystal Violet use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizing nylon for both, while the Crystal Violet incorporates ABS. Nylon is known for its softer and more sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, ABS is a relatively rare choice for switch housings, providing a lower-pitched sound profile compared to nylon. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer unique acoustic experiences due to their housing choices.
In terms of their bottom housings, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Crystal Violet continue to showcase differences in material choice. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow uses nylon for its bottom housing, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Violet's ABS bottom housing offers a lower-pitched sound profile, creating a distinct typing experience. The differing materials of the bottom housings further highlight the impact that housing material can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly affect the sound and feel of the typing experience. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow opts for nylon top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Everglide Crystal Violet differs with ABS components that offer a lower-pitched sound. Despite these variations, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience for users, with the housing material playing a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile. Whether nylon or ABS, the housing material chosen can greatly influence the acoustics and tactile feedback of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow switch is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Crystal Violet switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The actuation force is crucial as it determines how much force is required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to fully press down a key. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crystal Violet switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while individuals looking for a more substantial feel may opt for the Milky Yellow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. While the feel of the switches may differ due to their linear and tactile properties, the travel distance remains the same, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of keypress depth. This makes both switches equally reliable in providing a consistent typing experience, with neither being shorter or longer in travel distance compared to the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a thocky and bassy experience, producing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, leaning towards a mellow tone that is non-intrusive. The sound profile of each switch will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, but overall, users can expect a satisfying auditory experience from both switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as providing a buttery typing experience, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke that is seamless and effortless. In contrast, the Everglide Crystal Violet offers a creamy and mild typing sensation, characterized by a silky and gliding touch with each keystroke. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch is noted for its stepped tactile feel, providing a two-stage typing experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in producing a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery typing experience, while the Crystal Violet provides a low-pitched and creamy sound profile with a silky and mild tactile feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gentle, stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Everglide Crystal Violet may be more suitable for you. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and operating force to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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