Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Honey, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its innovative CAP structure, offering remarkably smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance thanks to aerodynamically designed stems. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post provides enhanced stability and reduced wobble, leading to a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey stands out for its smooth and creamy typing feel, coupled with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is categorized as buttery, thocky, bassy, low-pitched, the TTC Honey is labeled as subdued, creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, polished. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Honey, it is evident that they both have distinct qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Milky Yellow's nylon top and bottom housing offer a deeper and duller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Honey's polycarbonate top and bottom housing provide a sharper and clearer sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in material composition leads to different typing experiences for users, with the Milky Yellow offering a softer and fuller sound while the Honey produces a crisper and higher-pitched sound.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Honey share the common attribute of utilizing high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Milky Yellow and the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Honey both play a significant role in creating a unique sound profile for each switch. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing in the Honey allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium feel with their carefully chosen housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are distinctively felt throughout the actuation and release of the keys. The bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience with its composition. Conversely, the top housing is more prominent in the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall feedback and tactile response of the switches. By understanding how these housing materials interact with the keypress, users can better appreciate the nuances in sound and feel that each switch offers.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the Honey switch is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Honey switch may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch may provide a more substantial and tactile typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel. Overall, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches highlight the importance of considering weight when selecting a switch for a keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Honey switch, which may provide a slightly deeper press feel. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Honey switch offering a slightly shallower option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the depth of key press desired. Whether opting for the shorter or longer travel distance, both switches will offer a smooth linear keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a thocky and bassy experience with a low-pitched tone, creating a deep and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch provides a more subdued sound, offering a quieter and more subtle typing experience. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow producing a more pronounced and rich sound compared to the more mellow and dampened sound of the Honey switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its buttery keystrokes, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Honey switch is described as creamy and frictionless, offering a silky sensation with minimal resistance or friction during key presses. Both switches aim to deliver an effortless and uniform typing sensation, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow focusing on a seamless keystroke experience, while the Honey switch emphasizes a smooth and polished feel.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and TTC Honey switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a thocky and bass-heavy sound with buttery keystrokes, ensuring a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch offers a more subdued and creamy sound profile with a frictionless and polished feel, delivering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can provide a highly enjoyable typing experience, showcasing their unique qualities in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a medium-heavy bottom out force and values smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch with its innovative CAP structure and enhanced stability would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and creamy typing feel with a deep sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch with its buttery, creamy sensation and pleasant sound profile would be more fitting for your preferences. Consider your typing style and preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.