Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Yellow both stand out for their unique features. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its innovative CAP structure, ensuring smooth keystrokes with aerodynamically designed stems for reduced resistance and enhanced stability. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Ink Yellow is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own set of advantages depending on individual 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Yellow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, offering a pointed and high-pitched, yet not sharp, sound that is often described as clacky. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, they offer slightly different sound profiles due to their housing materials.
However, despite their differences, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Ink Yellow share similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches use materials that aim to enhance the typing experience by absorbing sound to create a more muted and rounded sound profile. The nylon housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow both contribute to a pleasant typing sound that is preferred by many enthusiasts. While the sound may vary slightly between the two switches, the overall typing experience is similarly enhanced by the choice of housing materials used in their construction.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Yellow play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of each switch. The nylon housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by utilizing materials that absorb sound to create a more satisfying sound profile. Whether you prefer a softer, rounder sound or a crisper, clackier sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Yellow is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Ink Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, those who enjoy a heavier, more substantial typing feel may prefer the Gateron Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Ink Yellow the shorter option and the Milky Yellow the longer option. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow switch, while those who prefer a deeper keypress may opt for the Milky Yellow switch. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel but vary in travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow for $7.35.
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 often described as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, providing a deep and satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is known for its neutral and clacky sound profile, offering a crisp and bright sound. Depending on personal preference, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be more appealing to those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound experience, while the Ink Yellow may be preferred by those who prefer a more moderate and snappy sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Those who enjoy a seamless and effortless typing sensation may lean towards the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, while those looking for a refined and polished typing experience may find the Ink Yellow to be more suitable.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a deeper and more satisfying sound with a buttery feel, while the Ink Yellow offers a neutral and clacky sound with a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but both switches are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and stable typing experience with a slightly lighter actuation force, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. The innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic design create a satisfying thocky and bassy sound profile, making typing sessions a pleasure. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel distance and a neutral, clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch might be more suitable for you. Its smoothness and clackiness provide a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Ink Yellow.
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