Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mint, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out for its innovative CAP structure, providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimized resistance. With aerodynamically designed stems and enhanced stability, this switch offers a 'buttery' and 'thocky' typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is praised for its satisfyingly smooth linear feel, offering a 'poppy thockiness' due to its long pole stem. Known for a light and fleeting typing feel, this switch is categorized as 'polished' and 'mild'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mint both feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature and sound absorption properties. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Mint features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of housing material in the top housing significantly affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon providing a more muted sound while polycarbonate produces a more resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the KTT Mint's polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon housing does not offer this feature, but instead focuses on providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a similar sound profile, the difference in top housing materials between the two switches showcases the impact that housing material can have on the overall sound characteristics of a switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on that particular switch. While both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the KTT Mint share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the difference in their top housing materials - nylon for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and polycarbonate for the Mint - leads to distinct sound profiles. The softer nature of nylon in the CAP V2 Milky Yellow results in a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Mint creates a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics and the desired aesthetic features such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the KTT Mint has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This means that the Mint switch is lighter in terms of force required for both actuation and bottom out compared to the Milky Yellow switch. Depending on personal preferences, some users may prefer the lighter Mint switch for longer typing sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier Milky Yellow switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one is looking for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch is identical at 4mm. This means that both switches offer the same sensation when pressed down on a key. Users can expect similar results in terms of key travel with either of these switches. Consequently, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable for those seeking a specific key travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 and bassy qualities, offering a deep and rich sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more mellow tone overall. Both switches offer a unique sound profile, with the Milky Yellow leaning towards a deeper and more satisfying thocky sound, while the Mint provides a lighter and more neutral tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is often praised for its buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke that feels seamless and effortless. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Milky Yellow providing a buttery smooth feel and the Mint offering a polished and approachable sensation.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Milky Yellow offers a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery typing feel, the Mint provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, users can choose between the two switches to achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch would be a great choice. With its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems, you can expect a satisfyingly smooth keystroke with reduced wobble and enhanced stability. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a poppy thocky sound, the KTT Mint linear switch might be more suitable for you. Its long pole stems offer a light and fleeting typing feel with a satisfying sound profile. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience.
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