Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is lauded for its smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure, ensuring minimal resistance and enhanced stability. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance and all-POM housings for a unique sound signature. While the Milky Yellow is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Kiki Red falls under 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their own strengths and nuances, catering to enthusiasts with different 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Kiki Red switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Milky Yellow's nylon top and bottom housings result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's POM top and bottom housings create a unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. While both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, the materials used in their housings play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon housing of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow results in a duller and rounder sound, while the POM housing of the Bsun Kiki Red offers a relatively more muted sound experience. The difference in housing materials gives each switch its own distinct acoustic profile, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound (Milky Yellow) or a more pleasing and unique sound (Kiki Red), the housing material of these switches plays a crucial role in delivering the desired typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Kiki Red switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, they both excel in providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. The nylon and POM housings of the Milky Yellow and Kiki Red switches, respectively, contribute to the overall sound profile, with nylon offering a softer and fuller sound compared to POM's unique and muted sound. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience for users looking for distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force measurements, but users can expect similar results in terms of performance and gameplay depending on their personal preference for a lighter or heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milky Yellow switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Kiki Red. A travel distance of 4 mm is considered more traditional, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth, making it a suitable option for various purposes. On the other hand, the Kiki Red with a travel distance of 3.6 mm is slightly shorter, offering a quicker response time which is preferred by gamers for fast-paced actions. Both switches provide a different experience in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences for key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 offers a deep and satisfying thocky sound, characterized by a rich and low-pitched tone. This creates a pleasant auditory experience for users seeking a tactile response during typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is noted for its clacky sound profile, which offers a sharp and bright sound sensation. While both switches provide distinct sound qualities, the choice between the deep thocky sound of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the sharp clacky sound of the Kiki Red ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This ensures a seamless and effortless typing sensation for users who prioritize comfort and consistency in their typing sessions. Conversely, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is characterized as creamy and frictionless, providing a smooth and silky typing experience. This indicates a high level of refinement and ease of use, making it an attractive option for users who prefer a polished and fluid typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the buttery feel of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the creamy sensation of the Kiki Red depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Bsun Kiki Red switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a thocky sound and a buttery feel, the Kiki Red offers a clacky sound and a creamy typing experience. Both switches excel in their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a deep and rich sound profile with smooth keystrokes or a sharp and bright sound with buttery typing experience, both switches deliver exceptional performance in their own right. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and priorities when it comes to sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the unique characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a smooth keystroke with reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, and a buttery typing feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would be a suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a balance of comfortably high-pitched clacky sound with a subtly tactile experience, the Bsun Kiki Red is worth considering. The Kiki Red offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a refined and responsive switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. It is important to prioritize your typing experience and find the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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