Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When seeking a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top stand out as top contenders, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its incredibly smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems that minimize resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top is specifically designed for office environments, providing a quiet yet responsive typing experience. While the Milky Yellow offers a buttery and thocky typing feel, the Mountain Top is bouncy and easy-to-press. Both switches have their own strengths and applications, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top feature nylon top and bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch. The nylon material in both switches helps to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
However, despite the similarities in housing materials, the two switches may still have subtle differences in sound and feel due to variations in their design or manufacturing process. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the two switches, as well as the effect of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key. These differences, while subtle, can still affect the overall typing experience and may be noticeable to users with a keen ear and sensitivity to typing feel.
Ultimately, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top offer a high-quality typing experience with their nylon housing materials. The deeper and fuller sound profile created by the softer plastic composition of the nylon material is a desirable feature for many keyboard enthusiasts. Whether choosing the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Mountain Top, users can expect a typing experience that is smooth, quiet, and satisfying thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top switch is lighter in both aspects. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison to the Mountain Top switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. This means that the Mountain Top switch would require less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to bottom out compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience would find the Mountain Top switch more suitable, while individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. In terms of weight, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Mountain Top switch make it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, whereas the heavier forces of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch provide a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mountain Top switch has the shorter travel distance compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the slightly longer travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow could provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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 best characterized as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with a lower frequency range. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of environments due to its moderate actuation force requirement. If sound is a key factor for you, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch will provide a more distinct and bass-heavy typing experience compared to the more neutral sound of the Mountain Top switch.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its buttery keystroke experience, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with a mild and snappy response that is suitable for a variety of typing preferences. If you prefer a more seamless and effortless typing experience, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch may be more to your liking, while the Mountain Top switch offers a lively and responsive feel.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Mountain Top switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences and environments. If you prefer a deeper, bassy sound and a buttery typing feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is the way to go. However, if you value a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press typing experience, the Mountain Top switch is a solid choice. Both switches provide unique characteristics that will enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, you should take into account your preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a smooth keystroke and enhanced stability, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience designed for office environments, the Mountain Top switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as actuation force, typing feel, and sound profile that align with your typing style and needs.
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