Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Magnetic Jade stand out for their distinct characteristics and unique typing experiences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its buttery smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, which minimizes resistance and enhances stability, resulting in a refined feel. Users who appreciate a touch of depth in their typing will gravitate toward these switches for their thocky and low-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches cater to enthusiasts who desire a bright and clacky acoustic experience, making them ideal for upgrading Wooting Hall Effect keyboards. With a focus on superior typing quality and improved sound, these switches provide a spirited typing experience that appeals to many. While both options offer compelling reasons for selection—smooth action versus vibrant acoustic feedback—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches showcase significant differences in their top housing materials, which greatly influence the auditory and tactile experiences they offer to typists. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow employs a nylon top housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer characteristics that allow it to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its ability to generate a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for users seeking a bright auditory response, particularly in setups involving RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Interestingly, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, establishing a shared characteristic that influences their overall sound and feel. The use of nylon in the Magnetic Jade’s bottom housing is pivotal, as it embodies the same desirable qualities that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow possesses; namely, a deeper sound profile that can be felt when bottoming out the key. Thus, while the top housings differ in material—resulting in distinct acoustic properties—the nylon bottom housings of both switches preserve this commonality. This creates an overall sound experience marked by a fuller tone during key presses, allowing users to enjoy similar auditory feedback when the switch reaches its bottom-out point.
When it comes to the combined interaction of the housing materials, the impact of each component becomes evident in the total typing experience. The top housing primarily influences the sound produced during the release of a key, while the bottom housing's qualities play a crucial role in the sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. Therefore, even with contrasting materials in the top housing, both switches are capable of providing an engaging sound profile that leaves an impression on typists. Ultimately, the distinct blending of nylon and polycarbonate allows users to experience a fusion of auditory characteristics—offering both depth and clarity as you alternate between models, ultimately resulting in varied yet complementary typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade is lighter, featuring an actuation force of only 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. The lighter actuation force of the Magnetic Jade may be preferable for those who intend to use their keyboards for prolonged periods, as it reduces finger fatigue during intense typing or gaming sessions. Overall, if a user desires a heavier switch for a tactile feedback experience, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the better choice, while those favoring a lighter touch for comfort should opt for the Magnetic Jade.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option in this comparison, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, giving it a shorter feel. The traditional travel distance of 4 mm is known for providing a more pronounced feedback, which some users appreciate for its hearty depth, whereas the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Magnetic Jade caters more to those who prefer responsiveness and quicker actuation, often favored by gamers for faster response times. Although both switches serve different preferences, the choice between them ultimately hinges on whether one values depth and feedback or seeks a more rapid and nimble 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 Gateron Magnetic Jade 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch stands out with its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback that many typists find pleasurable. This richness in sound creates a sense of depth and weight when typing, reminiscent of a soft thud or knock with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch's acoustic qualities are less documented; so while it is recognized for its bright and clacky sound, the specifics of its sound profile, especially in comparison to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, remain unknown. This means that while both switches offer appealing sound environments, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a more established understanding of its sound signature.
Regarding feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is characterized by a buttery smooth keystroke experience, allowing for seamless and effortless typing. This fluid sensation is enhanced by the innovative design features, such as the aerodynamically shaped stems that minimize resistance and promote a highly stable typing feel. Meanwhile, details about the feel of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch have not been shared, leaving its tactile experience ambiguous. Consequently, if a smooth typing experience is a priority, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow clearly excels.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches present unique auditory experiences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a deep, bass-heavy sound profile alongside its buttery feel, making it a strong choice for those who prioritize sound and smoothness. While the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch seems promising, particularly for its clacky sound, its overall feel and firm tactile feedback remain unexamined. The choice between them ultimately depends on whether one leans more towards the stable, rich auditory experience of the Milky Yellow, or is intrigued by the potential of the Magnetic Jade, despite its unknown aspects.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force for a more deliberate and satisfying key press, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent choice. Its innovative CAP structure ensures smooth keystrokes with a thocky, bassy sound that can enhance your typing experience, making it ideal if you value a quieter environment while still enjoying a rich auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a 55-gram actuation force for quicker, more fluid typing, the Magnetic Jade might be the way to go. Its bright and clacky sound profile, coupled with the advantages of the hall effect design, provides a unique auditory satisfaction and is best suited for those looking to upgrade their Wooting Hall Effect keyboards for both performance and acoustics. Therefore, assess your typing style, desired sound characteristics, and the overall feel you wish to achieve to make the best decision between these two fantastic options.
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