Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Black mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its innovative CAP structure that ensures remarkably smooth keystrokes, while also minimizing resistance for a smoother action. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post in these switches provides enhanced stability, reducing wobble and refining the typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches are further perfected by Cherry with their new Hyperglide tooling, offering a classic textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile when typing on them. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy' feel, while the Cherry MX Black is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff'. Ultimately, both switches provide a unique typing experience, and the choice between the two will depend on 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Black switches use nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to their shared housing material.
However, if we were to differentiate between the top and bottom housings of the switches, the qualities of the housing material are split between the two components. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when letting go of a key. This distinction may result in subtle variations in sound and feel between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Black switches, even though they both utilize nylon as their housing material.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Black switches share the same nylon housing material, the slight differences in how the housing material is utilized in the top and bottom components may result in nuanced variations in typing experience between the two switches. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon housing, but the specific qualities attributed to the top and bottom housings may affect the overall typing feel. Ultimately, individuals may prefer one switch over the other based on their preference for the bottom-out sound or the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the lighter option of the two. The Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their linear design, but the slight difference in force levels can cater to different preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their equal travel distances. Whether you choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Cherry MX Black, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched profile, resulting in a deep and satisfying sound when typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch provides a low-pitched sound, giving a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. Both switches offer a similar low-pitched sound profile, so you can expect comparable auditory feedback regardless of your choice.
In terms of feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as providing a buttery typing experience, offering smooth and fluid keystrokes for a seamless and effortless feel. In comparison, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as textured and stiff, potentially providing a different tactile sensation that may be preferred by users looking for a more distinct feel when typing. The choice between a buttery and textured feel ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Cherry MX Black switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a thocky and buttery typing experience or a low-pitched and textured feel, both switches provide reliable linear options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Choosing between these switches will depend on your individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke with reduced wobble, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your own personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best keyboard switch experience for you.
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