Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TKC Kiwi offer distinct qualities to consider. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch that is celebrated for its remarkably smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure. With aerodynamically designed stems and enlarged stem posts for stability, it provides a buttery, thocky feel while typing. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch that features a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed for a smooth typing experience right out of the box. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TKC Kiwi both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, the TKC Kiwi stands out with its UHWMPE top and bottom housing. The UHWMPE material in the Kiwi provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, offering a different typing experience compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow.
In terms of the sound produced, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi's UHWMPE housing offers a very bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing. While both housing materials have their own unique sound characteristics, their differences in sound profile may appeal to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and typing experience.
Although the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TKC Kiwi have different housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound profiles. Both switches offer a distinct sound signature that can be attributed to their housing materials. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, the TKC Kiwi's UHWMPE housing offers a bright and resonant sound when typing. By understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profile, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing feel and sound. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, we find that the Kiwi is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Milky Yellow is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Kiwi at 67 grams and the Milky Yellow at 65 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy range. The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Kiwi for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the slightly heavier Milky Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel when using either of these switches. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to some other mechanical switches, providing quick and efficient key presses. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is the same, making them suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00.
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 is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with each key press. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, giving a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their unique sound profiles, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience for seamless and effortless typing. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped, accented, and polished feel, giving a mild tactile sensation with prominent tactility and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. Despite the differences in tactile characteristics between the two switches, both the Gateron and TKC switches offer a satisfying typing feel that caters to different preferences.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch each offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. With the Gateron switch providing a thocky and buttery experience, and the TKC switch offering a snappy and stepped feel, newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world have a variety of options to choose from based on their sound and feel preferences. Both switches deliver high-quality performance and are sure to enhance your typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when selecting the perfect switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience. If you prefer a smoother keystroke with reduced wobble and stability, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile bump at the top of each key press and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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