Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their characteristics. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its remarkably smooth keystrokes due to the innovative CAP structure, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature. The Milky Yellow switch offers a buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched typing experience, while the Silver V3 provides a clacky, high-pitched, and silky feel. Both switches have their unique advantages, with the Milky Yellow excelling in smoothness and stability, and the Silver V3 offering a vibrant RGB illumination feature. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, it is clear that they have distinct differences in terms of the material used. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 opts for polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
Despite the differences in material used for the housing, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their respective sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow work together to create a rounder and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 produce a clearer and higher-pitched sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing, one may find either switch to be more suitable for their needs. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the material of their housing.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. While nylon is known for its softer and more absorbent qualities, resulting in a duller sound, polycarbonate offers a stiffer and clearer sound profile. Whether one prefers the deeper sound of nylon or the crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches deliver on their promise to enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to individual preference for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, we can see that the CAP V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP V2 is also heavier at 65 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the CAP V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in typing experience and keypress feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a longer travel distance compared to the Lightning Silver V3. The 4.0mm travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is more traditional, offering a deeper keypress experience, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Lightning Silver V3 provides a shallower keypress. Gamers may prefer the Lightning Silver V3 for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is renowned for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying acoustic experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, offering a sharp and percussive auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience for effortless typing. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is known for its silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance.
Taking into account the information provided, individuals who prefer a deep and rich sound with a smooth keystroke may gravitate towards the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch. On the other hand, those who enjoy a sharp and snappy sound paired with a seamless typing experience may find the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both options offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth keystroke and enhanced stability, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, along with a silky and seamless typing experience, then the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style and preferences for sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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