Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar stand out as exceptional linear options, each catering to unique preferences and typing experiences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure that promotes remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to aerodynamically designed stems featuring tiny air release holes, reducing resistance for effortless action. This switch is noted for its “buttery,” “thocky,” and “bassy” characteristics, providing a satisfying tactile experience with reduced wobble. On the other hand, the Everfree Cedar switch offers a balanced and reliable performance at a more cost-effective price point, utilizing Gateron’s trusted proprietary mold to deliver a satisfying, poppy sound profile. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may cater to those seeking a premium feel and sound, the Everfree Cedar appeals to budget-conscious users who still want reliable performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, playing a crucial role in their sound profiles. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, which is acknowledged for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and delivering a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency. This results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, accentuating the clarity of keystrokes. Therefore, while both switches exhibit unique auditory traits, the choice of material significantly affects their individual sound characteristics during typing.
Turning to the bottom housings, both switches opt for nylon as their material. This shared element means that both switches will exhibit a similar auditory depth when bottoming out, contributing to the overall sound experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches is noted for providing a duller, more rounded sound, which contrasts with the sharper qualities introduced by the Everfree's polycarbonate top housing. Consequently, while the Everfree Cedar's top housing delivers a higher-pitched, more resonant sound when releasing keys, the impact of the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a cohesive auditory profile that emphasizes the fullness and richness typical of nylon.
In summary, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches showcase a blend of materials in their design, leading to unique yet partially overlapping sound profiles. The differing top housings lead to contrasting sounds during key release, with the nylon offering warmth and depth, while the polycarbonate enhances clarity and sharpness. However, their shared nylon bottom housings create a synchronized experience in bottoming out, underscoring the similarities between these two switch options and reminding users that even when materials differ, an engaging typing experience can be achieved by harmonizing the qualities of various housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, we see notable differences in actuation force. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, whereas the Everfree Cedar has a slightly heavier actuation force at 55 grams, making the CAP V2 the lighter option. Additionally, the bottom out force for the CAP V2 is 65 grams, indicating a firm feel when fully depressed. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Everfree Cedar is unavailable, leaving a gap in our comparison. For users who appreciate a lighter touch, the CAP V2 is ideal, especially for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Everfree Cedar, despite the uncertainty regarding its bottom out force. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch with a defined bottom out feel, the CAP V2 is the better choice, whereas the Everfree Cedar offers a stronger actuation that may suit different preferences, although its full characteristics remain partly unknown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everfree (EF) Cedar has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact user experience; the longer 4 mm travel of the CAP V2 may provide a more pronounced tactile sensation for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, making it ideal for typists or those who enjoy a more substantial feedback. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the EF Cedar enables quicker actuation, appealing to gamers looking for rapid response times. Therefore, if you appreciate a more responsive feel, the Everfree Cedar is likely the better choice, whereas the CAP V2 may be preferred for a richer typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Everfree (EF) Cedar for $2.75.
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 linear switch stands out with its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched audio profile. This gives it a deep, rich sound that many typists find satisfying, reminiscent of a soft thud or knock when keys are actuated and released. In contrast, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switch does not have a clearly defined sound profile, and while it promises a satisfying poppy quality, specific descriptors like "thocky" or "bassy" are absent. It's important to note that the acoustic performance of both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard they are paired with and the type of keycaps used, which can create different auditory experiences regardless of the switch themselves.
In terms of feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels with its buttery sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The innovative CAP structure, along with the aerodynamically designed stem, ensures a seamless typing sensation that minimizes resistance and wobble, enhancing overall stability. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the tactile feel of the Everfree (EF) Cedar switch, making a direct comparison difficult. Thus, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a definitive tactile experience that newcomers may find engaging, while the feel of the Everfree Cedar remains unspecified.
In summary, if you're seeking a switch with a rich audio profile and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is the clear choice. Its satisfying thocky sound and buttery feel create an enjoyable typing environment. Meanwhile, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar may still deliver reliable performance but lacks the defined sound and tactile qualities of the CAP V2. If one is uncertain about sound or feel, the CAP V2 may serve as a safe option for a premium experience, while the Everfree Cedar could provide a budget-friendly alternative for those willing to explore.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches, consider your preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you favor a medium-heavy actuation force and value a smooth, buttery keystroke combined with a satisfying thocky and bassy sound, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow will be your ideal choice. Its innovative design enhances stability and minimizes wobble, making it a great option for both typing and gaming where precision is key. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly switch that still delivers reliable performance, the ever-reliable Everfree Cedar might be better suited for your needs. While specific sound and tactile feedback details on the Everfree Cedar are less pronounced, its cost-effectiveness ensures you can enjoy a great typing experience without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize an upscale, tactile experience or a value-driven solution.
Mentioned in this article
