Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear in design, it is important to note the unique features of each switch. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its smooth keystrokes thanks to the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes, minimizing resistance for a smoother action. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post enhances stability and reduces wobble, providing a refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a medium weight with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation due to its all-POM construction. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for being buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, the Dareu Master is characterized as clacky, mild, and polished. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound, smoothness, and key feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Dareu Master both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft and sound-absorbing qualities. On the other hand, the Dareu Master utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon. While both materials produce distinct sound profiles, the nylon housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may elicit a duller and rounder sound, while the POM housing of the Master creates a relatively more muted sound.
In terms of bottom housing material, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Master also differ. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile with its sound-absorbing properties. Conversely, the Dareu Master utilizes a POM bottom housing, creating a more muted and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. Despite their differences, both bottom housings contribute significantly to the overall sound and feel of the switches, with nylon offering a rounder sound and POM providing a more muted and deeper sound experience.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Master vary in terms of nylon and POM, respectively, the qualities each material brings to the switches can be observed throughout the typing experience. Whether it's the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch or the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, both materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing feel. While the specific characteristics of nylon and POM may differ, users can expect a level of uniqueness and satisfaction from either switch option.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is clear that the Master is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is slightly heavier at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the CAP V2 is 65 grams, while it is unknown for the Master. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Master may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Master catering to those who prefer a lighter touch and the CAP V2 appealing to users who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Master 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 Dareu Master linear switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow falls on the more traditional side, offering a deeper feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the Dareu Master is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master providing a faster response time and the longer travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offering a more robust feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and rich tone with each key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offering a more bass-heavy tone while the Master switch provides a sharper and brighter sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is lauded for its buttery keystroke experience, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation with each press. The Dareu Master switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and polished feel, giving users a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback to users, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow emphasizing a seamless and effortless feel, while the Master switch delivers a more refined and approachable typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch each bring their own set of sound and feel characteristics to the table. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a thocky and buttery typing experience, with a focus on smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a clacky sound signature and a polished feel, striking a balance between gentle typing feedback and refined key travel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that best suits their needs and preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clacky sound and a medium weight switch that offers a gentle typing experience and smooth key travel, the Dareu Master could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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