Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor White both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems that minimize resistance. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post enhances stability and typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White is characterized by its subdued and gentle linear switch, offering a soft type feel and sound profile. While the Milky Yellow is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Meteor White falls into 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished' categories. Depending on your preference for keystroke smoothness or gentle typing experience, either switch may appeal to you. 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
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor White switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. This similarity in housing material ensures that users of both switches can expect a similar acoustic profile and tactile feedback during use.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the difference in color and design between the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor White may appeal to different preferences in aesthetics. The Milky Yellow may offer a brighter and more vibrant color option, while the Meteor White provides a sleek and minimalist appearance. However, in terms of performance and sound profile, the nylon housing of both switches provides a consistent experience and quality that typists will appreciate.
Regardless of the specific color or branding, the nylon housing of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor White switches ensures that users will experience a similar typing feel and sound profile. This consistency in housing material means that users can rely on the deep and full sound produced by the softer nylon plastic, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether choosing the Milky Yellow or the Meteor White, typists can expect a durable and acoustically pleasing switch that delivers a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch differ significantly, with the Milky Yellow being heavier in both aspects. The Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Meteor White has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Meteor White, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In comparison, the Milky Yellow switch is more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that they both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience. With a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect consistent and precise typing feedback from both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 is described as producing a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and rich auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a more neutral and thocky sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various preferences. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the CAP V2 Milky Yellow leans towards a deeper and more bass-heavy tone compared to the gentler sound of the Meteor White.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its buttery keystrokes, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Milky Yellow switch emphasizes a buttery feel, whereas the Meteor White switch focuses on providing a gentle and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch stands out for its deep, bassy sound profile and buttery typing feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced and smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a softer and more neutral sound profile, coupled with a mild and polished typing feel that caters to a wider range of users. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide quality performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the level of bottom out force you prefer. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Milky Yellow switch with 65 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you are looking for switches that offer a thocky, bassy sound profile and a buttery feel, the Milky Yellow switches may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and a switch with a more subdued sound profile and a mild, polished feel, then the Meteor White switches may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.