Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Firefly. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch renowned for its remarkably smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability due to its innovative CAP structure. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly stands out as a tactile switch that offers a quiet experience with a light actuation and slight clickiness. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as 'buttery', 'thocky', 'bassy', and 'low-pitched', the Firefly is characterized as 'easy-to-press' and 'chirpy'. Each switch has its own unique appeal, but understanding their distinct qualities is crucial in determining which one would best suit your typing preferences. 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
40g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Firefly, one noticeable difference is the top housing material. The Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Firefly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This variation in housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear and resonant sound produced by polycarbonate.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Milky Yellow and Firefly switches use nylon. Nylon is appreciated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys, emphasizing the consistency in sound quality between the two switches.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can influence the sound profile and typing experience in various ways. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, the Dareu Firefly's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. However, the common use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches suggests a similar depth and fullness in sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and feel, with each housing material offering its unique qualities to enhance the typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, we can see that the Milky Yellow has a heavier actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Firefly's 40 grams. Additionally, the Milky Yellow has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is higher than the unknown bottom out force of the Firefly. This means that the Milky Yellow switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Firefly switch will offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience the same amount of travel distance before reaching the bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and feedback, regardless of which switch they choose to use. Overall, both switches provide a standard travel distance that is neither longer nor shorter than the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch offers a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from traditional clicky switches. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch caters to those who enjoy a rich and bass-heavy typing sound, the Firefly switch appeals to users looking for a quieter and subtly clicky typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is praised for its buttery keystrokes, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience that feels effortless and uniform. Conversely, the Dareu Firefly switch is described as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This low-impact typing feel enhances the overall typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and making extended typing sessions more comfortable.
Taking into account the sound and feel characteristics of both switches, it's clear that the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch excels in delivering a deep and rich sound accompanied by a smooth and seamless typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly switch offers a quieter and more gentle typing experience with a unique chirpy sound signature. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the thocky and buttery qualities of the Gateron switch or the chirpy and easy-to-press attributes of the Dareu switch. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct and enjoyable typing experiences, catering to a variety of preferences within the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke with reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a quiet, easy-to-press switch with a hint of clickiness, the Dareu Firefly switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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