Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both linear switches. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out for its innovative CAP structure, providing remarkably smooth keystrokes through aerodynamically designed stems that minimize resistance. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post enhances stability and reduces wobble for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is prized for its classic linear switch design, offering a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound that many in the community appreciate. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Ink Black V2 is characterized by its 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished' feel. Each switch provides unique qualities that cater to different preferences in 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 incorporates a proprietary INK blend for both housings, creating a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both switches aim to enhance sound quality, the nylon material in the Milky Yellow offers a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper and thinner sound produced by the INK blend in the Ink Black V2.
One significant contrast between the two switches lies in their sound profiles, where the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound while the Ink Black V2's INK blend housing produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound. The softer nature of the nylon material in the Milky Yellow contributes to a more muted and rounder sound, making typing on these switches a quieter and softer experience. In contrast, the INK blend in the Ink Black V2 provides a crisper and more prominent sound that gives off a clacky feel, adding a certain level of tactility and sharpness to each keystroke.
Overall, despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Black V2 strive to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound profiles. While the nylon housing in the Milky Yellow aims for a deeper and fuller sound, the INK blend in the Ink Black V2 offers a sharper and more pointed sound quality. Both switches utilize their housing materials to influence the overall sound profile of the switch, with the bottom housing playing a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. In the end, whether you choose the Milky Yellow or the Ink Black V2, you can expect an optimized typing experience tailored to your sound preference.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it's evident that the key difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 features a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required, ensuring that users will get a similar level of performance from each switch despite the slight variation in force requirements. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired level of force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing experience when using either switch. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of key press travel, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, along with a unique chirpy quality that sets it apart. Both switches aim to deliver a rich and pleasing sound, with the Ink Black V2 offering a slightly different chirpy element compared to the Milky Yellow.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience for seamless typing. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, with a more gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of characteristics. Both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing feel, with the Milky Yellow emphasizing a buttery sensation while the Ink Black V2 offers a polished and approachable touch.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches differ slightly in their sound and feel qualities, they both aim to provide a satisfying and smooth typing experience. The Milky Yellow emphasizes a thocky and buttery sound and feel, while the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound and a polished, mild feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel characteristics, both switches offer reliable options for a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you are looking for a smoother keystroke action with reduced wobble and enhanced stability, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a thocky and bassy sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow can provide a deep and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a polished finish, the Ink Black V2 may be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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