Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, a linear switch, and the Durock Medium Tactile, a tactile switch, stand out as excellent options for different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is celebrated for its remarkably smooth keystrokes due to the innovative CAP structure, aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes for reduced resistance, and enhanced stability from the enlarged stem post. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique typing experience. While the Gateron switch is known for its 'buttery' and 'thocky' feel, the Durock switch is categorized as 'accented' and 'stepped'. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Medium Tactile, the main difference lies in their top housing materials. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile boasts a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users seeking a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboard switches.
While the top housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Medium Tactile differ, their bottom housing materials surprisingly remain the same, both utilizing nylon. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out keys, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs sound effectively. The choice to use nylon for both bottom housings likely ensures a cohesive typing experience across the switch, regardless of the subtle variations in sound produced by their respective top housings. Overall, these switches offer a consistent and satisfying sound profile when used in mechanical keyboards.
In scenarios where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, users can expect a noticeable split in the qualities each housing material brings to the typing experience. The bottom housing, which has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will reflect the characteristics of its material. In contrast, the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of considering both housing materials for achieving a desired sound profile in mechanical keyboard switches. Whether opting for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow with its nylon top and bottom housings or the Durock Medium Tactile with a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, users can customize their typing experience based on the unique sound profiles offered by these different materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams, while the Medium Tactile switch has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing them as medium-heavy switches in terms of overall feel. The actuation force plays a crucial role in determining how easy it is to type or game on a keyboard, with lighter forces being preferred for extended use and heavier forces providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preference for actuation force and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, resulting in a similar typing experience for both switches. This means that both switches offer consistent key travel and feedback during use. However, it's worth noting that while the travel distance is equal for both switches, the tactile feedback and actuation force may vary between the linear and tactile switch types. Therefore, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched characteristics, resulting in a deep and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having a jelly-like sound signature, which may appeal to those looking for a unique auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is accentuated, providing a balanced amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the stepped and mild qualities of the Durock switch contribute to a gentle typing experience, while the polished finish enhances the overall smoothness and refinement of key presses.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow switch delivers a deep and rich sound accompanied by a buttery typing feel, the Medium Tactile switch provides a unique jelly-like sound signature and accentuated tactility. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can expect different tactile and auditory feedback from each switch, ensuring a personalized mechanical keyboard experience. However, if a user prefers a smoother sound profile and a buttery typing feel, both switches may offer similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and stable linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then you may prefer the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow. This switch offers a thocky and bassy sound profile along with a buttery typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize smooth keystrokes and reduced wobble. On the other hand, if you are seeking a balanced and pronounced tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Durock Medium Tactile may be the better option for you. This switch provides an accented and stepped tactile feel, along with a jelly-like sound signature, giving you a unique and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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