Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Lupine mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out for its innovative CAP structure, ensuring smooth keystrokes with minimized resistance for a buttery and thocky typing experience. The enhanced stability and refined typing feel make it an excellent choice for those looking for a low-pitched and bassy switch. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine impresses with its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution on the press down and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. With a classic clacky sound profile, this switch offers a neutral and mild typing experience that is polished and high-pitched. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Lupine differ significantly in terms of their sound profiles. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon material that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This contrast in sound quality makes each switch unique in its own way, catering to different preferences in sound experience.
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Lupine share a nylon bottom housing, which gives them both a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the nylon top housing. This commonality in housing material means that the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will exhibit similar characteristics, creating a consistent typing experience across both switches. However, the differences in their top housing materials, nylon for the Gateron and polycarbonate for the Durock, will still result in distinguishable sound profiles when the keys are released, showcasing the impact of top housing on the overall sound of a switch.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Lupine ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that provides a deep and full sound experience, the differing top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate offer contrasting sound characteristics. The Gateron switch offers a duller and rounder sound profile with its nylon top housing, while the Durock switch delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbent sound or a sharper, more resonant sound, there is a housing material option to suit your typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is clear that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lupine's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Lupine is slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's 65 grams. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the CAP V2 Milky Yellow for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Lupine for a more substantial typing feel. In terms of actuation force, the exact values are unknown, but both switches should provide similar results for triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine linear switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, while those looking for a quicker response time might lean towards the Lupine. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so users can expect comparable results with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 switch offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched profile, resulting in a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch provides a neutral sound that is more high-pitched, giving a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's build and keycaps. Moving on to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch provides a buttery typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes, ensuring a seamless and effortless sensation. In contrast, the Lupine switch offers a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. If you enjoy a deep and rich sound with smooth keystrokes, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound with a gentle and polished typing experience, the Durock Lupine would be a suitable option. Ultimately, both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the Durock Lupine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy the smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability provided by the CAP Milky Yellows, then they may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a consistent weight distribution and powerful rebound movement offered by the Lupine switches, then they may be more suitable for your needs. Additionally, if you prefer a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile along with a buttery feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be more appealing to you. However, if you prefer a neutral or high-pitched sound profile with a mild or polished feel, the Durock Lupine may be the better option. Ultimately, consider these factors when making your decision to ensure you choose the switch that best fits your preferences and typing experience.
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