Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Silent Red, both linear switches offer unique advantages for different typing preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems that minimize resistance and provide stability. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red maintains the familiar feel of the MX Red switch but with a silent operation, making it ideal for quiet environments. While the Milky Yellow offers a buttery and bassy typing experience, the Silent Red delivers a muted and textured feel. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Cherry MX Silent Red utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom switch housings. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made of harder plastics. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to a more satisfying typing experience, with the material absorbing more sound and creating a unique auditory feedback.
While both switches feature nylon housings, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Silent Red may differ in the specific composition of the nylon material used. These variations can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon material absorbing more sound and creating a deeper resonance. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall typing experience in a different way.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Cherry MX Silent Red showcase how the material of switch housings can affect the typing experience. While both switches feature nylon housings that offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, subtle differences in composition may result in variations in sound and feel. Whether it's the bottom-out sound or the key-release sound, the nylon material in these switches enhances the overall typing experience, creating a tactile and satisfying sensation for users.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we see that the actuation force of the Milky Yellow is slightly heavier at 50 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Silent Red. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow is also heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Silent Red is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the preferred choice due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier touch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.7 mm travel distance of the MX Silent Red. In terms of responsiveness, the MX Silent Red may provide a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch produces a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound, offering a quieter typing experience suitable for noise-sensitive environments. While both switches share the low-pitched characteristic, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch presents a louder and more pronounced sound compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is noted for its textured feel, which may introduce noticeable friction during key presses. These tactile differences can impact the typing sensation, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch providing a seamless and effortless typing experience, while the Cherry MX Silent Red switch may offer a more tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch stands out for its thocky and buttery qualities, offering a deep and satisfying sound along with a smooth and fluid typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch excels in providing a muted sound profile, ideal for quieter environments, albeit with a textured feel that may introduce some friction during typing. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, selecting between these two switches can lead to different typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and stable keystroke with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice with its innovative CAP structure and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience without compromising on the satisfying feel of linear switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a quieter sound profile while maintaining a consistent typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a buttery and stable typing experience with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or a muted and textured typing experience with the Cherry MX Silent Red.
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