Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron New North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features and benefits for a customizable typing experience. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its innovative CAP structure, providing remarkably smooth keystrokes with aerodynamically designed stems for minimal resistance and enhanced stability. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless typing feel that users adore. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the New North Pole V2 is classified as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch aligns best with your typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron New North Pole V2, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the New North Pole V2 produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the typing experience for users depending on their preferences. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate housing in the New North Pole V2 allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal that the Milky Yellow switch may not offer.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the New North Pole V2 contribute to the overall sound profile in a similar way to their respective top housings. The softer nylon material of the Milky Yellow switch absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate material of the New North Pole V2 leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. While the bottom housing may not have as much impact on the sound profile as the top housing, it still plays a significant role in the overall typing experience.
In summary, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron New North Pole V2 ultimately comes down to the user's preferences in sound profile and aesthetic features. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, such as the deeper sound of nylon in the Milky Yellow and the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out and release sounds. Whether one prefers a softer, more absorbent sound or a crisper, more resonant sound, both switches provide quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 50 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 62.5 grams, making it slightly firmer to fully depress the keys. In terms of weight, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which could be preferred by those looking for a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where lighter actuation forces are desired for increased comfort and reduced fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and pressure requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that pressing down on either key will result in a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Users can expect consistent feedback and performance from both switches due to their identical travel distances. With no variation in this aspect, both switches offer a standard keypress feel that is smooth and reliable. Therefore, whether using the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Gateron New North Pole V2, users can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm for a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch are unknown. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, users of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch can expect a buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and seamless keystroke sensation. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as providing a polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel. This indicates a smooth and refined finish, potentially with factory lubrication, resulting in effortless and smooth key travel with minimal friction.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches are designed to provide a premium typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the deep and rich sound profile of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the smooth and polished typing feel of the New North Pole V2. Ultimately, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying performance, with slight variations in sound and feel to cater to diverse user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a buttery feel and a thocky, bassy sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a polished, creamy feel with a frictionless typing experience and a unique frictionless sound, the New North Pole V2 could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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