Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Matcha mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find two distinct options for your typing preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a smooth and stable typing experience with its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. Known for its buttery and thocky feel, this linear switch minimizes resistance for a seamless action. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha presents a tactile typing experience with a comfortable and snappy tactility, leading to a clean bottom-out sound. Categorized as stepped, snappy, and clacky, the Matcha switch provides a subtle yet noticeable typing sensation. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Matcha, it's clear that they bring different sound profiles to the table. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their own unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice between the two housing materials also plays a role. The clear, translucent polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visually striking element to the switch. In contrast, the opaque nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow offers a more traditional look without the light transmission. Whether you prefer a more traditional appearance or a modern, illuminated design can influence your decision between these two housing materials.
When it comes to typing experience, the bottom housing material of the switches also plays a significant role. The nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow contributes to the switch's deeper sound profile and softer feel when bottoming out a key. In comparison, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha adds to the switch's sharper, crisper sound and firmer feel. The balance between the top and bottom housing materials ultimately determines the overall typing experience for each switch, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Matcha tactile switch. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a 50g actuation force and a 65g bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the KTT Matcha has a lighter touch with a 40g actuation force and a 45g bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter weight for longer typing sessions or gaming may opt for the KTT Matcha, while those who prefer a heavier touch may prefer the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on either of these switches, users will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar typing experience. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows users to expect consistent results in terms of key press feedback and overall usability.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 switch is best known for its smooth keystrokes and stability, attributed to the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. When it comes to sound, the Milky Yellow switch is described as producing a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is praised for its comfortable and snappy tactility, resulting in a clean bottom-out sound. The Matcha switch produces a clacky sound, known for its sharp and percussive quality.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha switch features a stepped feel, providing two stages of tactility and a more mild bump compared to other tactile switches. The Matcha switch is also known for being snappy and responsive, enhancing the typing experience with a lively feel.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch excels in providing a stable, smooth, and satisfying typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing experiences, and choosing between them would come down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and enjoy smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams and value a comfortable, snappy tactility when typing, the KTT Matcha tactile switch could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer switches that produce a thocky, bassy, or low-pitched sound, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a great option, while the Matcha offers a clacky sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force.
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