Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Gold Red Pro mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to the innovative CAP structure that minimizes resistance and enhances stability. Known for its 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched' characteristics, this switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for any setting. With its 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle' attributes, this switch is adaptable to various 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Gold Red Pro, one can see a clear distinction in the choice of materials. While the Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the Gold Red Pro opts for polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for the Milky Yellow, thanks to the softer and more sound-absorbent nature of nylon, compared to the sharper and clearer sound profile of the Gold Red Pro, attributed to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches also influences the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both the Milky Yellow and Gold Red Pro, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing - whether it be nylon or polycarbonate - has a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that can be tailored to the user's preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and TTC Gold Red Pro offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Milky Yellow provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the Gold Red Pro offers a crisper and more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a softer, rounder sound profile or a sharper, clearer one. Nonetheless, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that their actuation and bottom out forces differ. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's actuation force of 43 grams, making the Gateron switch slightly heavier. Additionally, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires 65 grams to bottom out, while the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches may impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier actuation force of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Gold Red Pro the shorter option between the two. The 4 mm travel distance of the Milky Yellow switch is more traditional, offering a slightly deeper feel when typing or gaming. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro, while those who prefer a deeper keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches share similar descriptors such as "Thocky" and "Low-pitched." This suggests that they both offer a deep, rich sound profile with a bass-heavy tone during key presses. The Gold Red Pro, however, is also described as having a "Neutral" sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as "Buttery," indicating a smooth and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is described as "Polished," "Silky," "Mild," and "Subtle," all implying a refined and smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro showcasing a variety of qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a buttery smooth feel or a polished, silky typing experience, both switches have qualities to offer in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches have their unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Milky Yellow switch is known for its aerodynamically designed stems and enhanced stability, providing a smoother action and typing feel. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch stands out for its versatility and adaptability, offering a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature. If you're looking for a switch with a deep, rich sound profile and a buttery feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a neutral sound with a polished, silky typing experience, the Gold Red Pro switch is a suitable option. Ultimately, the best decision will depend on your personal preferences and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it's important to consider your typing preferences. If you value a smoother keystroke with enhanced stability and reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. Its thocky and bassy sound profile along with its buttery feel provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility and adaptability in various typing environments, the Gold Red Pro could be the better option with its neutral sound signature and polished, silky, and mild typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and needs for a mechanical keyboard switch.
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