Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is favored for its incredibly smooth keystrokes thanks to the innovative CAP structure that minimizes resistance and enhances stability, providing a refined typing experience categorized as buttery, thocky, bassy, low-pitched. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is known for its budget-friendly nature and smooth keystrokes that produce a buttery smoothness with a low-pitched thock sound, also falling into the buttery, bassy, thocky, low-pitched category. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual typing style. 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
52g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) feature nylon top and bottom housings, highlighting the benefits of this classic switch housing material. Nylon is known for its softer composition which helps absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made of harder plastics, making them popular choices for those who appreciate a more muted typing experience.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may differ in other aspects like actuation force or stem design. However, their similar housing materials ensure that users can expect a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon top and bottom housings play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, stem design, and color options rather than the housing material itself. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to their nylon housing, making them suitable for those who value a quieter typing experience. Whether you choose the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect a similar sound and feel due to their shared nylon housing material.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we see distinct differences. The Milky Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's lighter 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow is 65 grams, while the Milky Red Pro bottoms out at 52 grams. This means that the Milky Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, while the Milky Red Pro offers a lighter touch with a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, while those who desire a stronger push feel may find the Milky Yellow more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This uniformity in travel distance between the two switches ensures a consistent typing experience for individuals who prefer linear switches. Whether you choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, which gives a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch also offers a similar sound profile with a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched "thock" sound. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as providing a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and budget-friendly typing experience, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow having the additional feature of aerodynamically designed stems for minimized resistance and enhanced stability, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) provides satisfying deep tones during key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and additional features like stability and resistance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy key press, opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow with 65 grams of bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light key press, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with 52 grams of bottom out force might be the better choice for you. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of the switches. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound, while providing a buttery feel. Meanwhile, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) also offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a thocky sensation, while maintaining a buttery feel as well. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most.
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