Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura are two standout options in the linear switch category, each offering unique features tailored to different typing preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes and thocky, bassy sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who appreciate a satisfying tactile experience without the harsh click sounds. Its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems promote enhanced stability and reduced wobble, ensuring a refined typing feel. Conversely, the Bsun Light Sakura emphasizes quiet, comfortable use with its ultra-light touch, perfect for those who engage in long typing sessions, especially in shared or office environments where discretion is key. While the Milky Yellow entices with its tactile feedback and auditory depth, the Light Sakura excels in comfort and silence. Both switches cater to specific needs and preferences, making them worthy contenders for your next keyboard upgrade. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura, a clear distinction presents itself. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a dull, rounded auditory experience that many typists appreciate for its subdued character. In contrast, the Light Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing that offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances its ability to resonate sharply, producing a more pronounced auditory experience, particularly favorable for those who prefer a clearer and more dynamic sound when typing.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow remains consistent with its nylon composition, providing the same deep, rounded sound inherent to its top housing. Conversely, the Light Sakura's bottom housing is also made of polycarbonate, maintaining the sharper, more resonant qualities emphasized by the top housing. This difference in materials means that while the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a cohesive sound profile across both housing components, the Light Sakura experiences a division where the contrasting characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate affect the overall sound. Specifically, in the case of the Light Sakura, the bottom-out sound will carry the sharper, more pronounced qualities of polycarbonate, while the release sound will reflect the brighter properties as well.
Ultimately, while both switches utilize high-quality materials, they cater to different auditory preferences. Users seeking a softer, more absorbed sound experience will gravitate towards the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, enjoying the warmth of nylon throughout. On the other hand, those who appreciate clarity and crispness in their keystrokes will likely prefer the Bsun Light Sakura, especially since the divergence in housing materials allows for distinctive sound profiles that complement a more vibrant typing experience. Thus, individuals can expect distinctly different sound characteristics and tactile sensations while typing on these two switches, despite their shared emphasis on high-quality construction.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch to the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Light Sakura stands out with a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. As a result, the Light Sakura is the lighter option, providing less resistance and making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who favor a more substantial feel will appreciate the heft of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. In summary, those seeking a lighter switch should opt for the Bsun Light Sakura, while those desiring a stronger push should consider the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a more pronounced keypress experience, appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Light Sakura’s 3.6 mm travel distance caters to users who favor quicker response times and a more immediate actuation, which is often preferred by gamers looking for efficiency. Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the longer option, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more tactile feedback, while the Bsun Light Sakura provides a shorter travel distance for faster actuation, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 switches produce a distinctive thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This results in a pleasant thud or soft knock sensation that is likely to appeal to users who appreciate an audible and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura switches are designed to be silent, prioritizing a quiet operation that is more suitable for environments where noise is a concern. The absence of descriptive sound qualities for the Light Sakura suggests that they may lack the rich acoustic presence found in the Milky Yellows, making them ideal for users who desire discretion while typing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its buttery smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and fluid experience that many typists find enjoyable and satisfying. The innovative design features enhance stability and reduce wobble, contributing to a refined typing sensation. On the other hand, there is a lack of detailed information regarding the feel of the Bsun Light Sakura switches. Given their construction and intent for comfort, it can be inferred that they are designed for a gentle, fatigue-reducing typing experience, although specific descriptors to compare them directly with the Milky Yellow are not provided.
In summary, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switches offer a rich and auditory typing experience with a smooth feel, appealing to users who enjoy engaging acoustics and satisfying keystrokes. Conversely, the Bsun Light Sakura switches prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience, catering to those who work in shared spaces or seek minimal disruption. While the CAP V2 excels in sound and feel, the Light Sakura seems to be the choice for discretion, making each option suitable depending on personal preferences and specific typing environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you're someone who enjoys a more pronounced tactile experience and appreciates a satisfying sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is likely the better fit for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams provides a stable feel, making it ideal for those who type with a bit more force or seek a more deliberate keystroke. The thocky and bassy sound of these switches can also enhance your overall typing satisfaction, offering a rich auditory experience that many enthusiasts cherish. On the other hand, if you prioritize quiet operation and comfort, the Light Sakura linear switch would be more suitable. With its ultralight actuation force of just 43 grams, it's perfect for long typing sessions, especially in shared or open environments where noise might be a concern. This switch is designed to reduce fatigue with its gentle keystrokes while keeping your typing discreet. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a more tactile and sonorous typing experience or a lightweight and silent feel.
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