Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and innovative CAP structure, which minimizes resistance for a more fluid typing experience. With enhanced stability and reduced wobble, these switches provide a buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is a tactile option that offers a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subtle audio feedback. Categorized as textured, bassy, and low-pitched, these switches are ideal for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. 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
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Despite both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown switches utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housing materials, they each offer a unique typing experience. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile on both switches. However, the Cherry MX Brown is renowned for its tactile bump, providing a slight resistance when pressing down on a key, which is not a feature of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, the nylon material continues to play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown. This consistency in the bottom housing material ensures that typing on either switch will produce a satisfying auditory experience.
While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown switches share similarities in their housing materials, the nuances of their designs lead to distinct typing experiences. The Cherry MX Brown's tactile bump sets it apart from the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, offering a unique feel when typing. However, both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, providing users with a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals who seek a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Overall, understanding the weight of a switch is crucial as it can impact typing comfort and preferences based on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed. Both switches provide a smooth actuation process, with the Milky Yellow offering a linear feel and the MX Brown providing a tactile bump for feedback. While the travel distance is the same for both switches, the subtle differences in their design and feel may sway users towards one switch over the other based on personal preference. Ultimately, users can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with either switch due to their equal travel distances.
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 Brown 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 linear switch offers a thocky and bassy sound profile with a low-pitched tone, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch also delivers a similar bassy and low-pitched sound, resulting in a subtle and subdued audio feedback. Both switches can give you a satisfying typing sound, but the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may offer a slightly deeper and more resonant tone compared to the MX Brown.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is noted for its textured feel, which can introduce noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the smooth and uniform typing sensation of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, while others may enjoy the subtle texture of the MX Brown for a tactile typing experience.
Considering the sound and feel characteristics of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a deep and rich sound with a smooth keystroke, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and tactile typing experience with a textured feel, the MX Brown could be more suitable. Overall, both switches provide quality performance, but the decision between them ultimately boils down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you should consider the amount of force you prefer to use when typing. If you enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow with a bottom out force of 65 grams may be the right choice for you. The innovative CAP structure and smooth keystrokes make it a great option for those who value stability and reduced wobble. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and subtle tactility, the Cherry MX Brown with a bottom out force of 55 grams might be more suitable. The gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback of the MX Brown offer a more refined typing experience. Additionally, consider the sound and feel preferences, as the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a thocky and buttery typing experience, while the MX Brown offers a bassy and textured feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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