Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is recognized for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to the innovative CAP structure that minimizes resistance for a buttery and thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 stands out for its gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a deep and muted sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its stability and refined typing feel, the North Pole V2 offers a satisfying and chewy typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2, the key difference lies in the use of nylon for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and polycarbonate for the North Pole V2. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. On the other hand, polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in sound quality is important for those who value a specific typing experience based on sound.
Furthermore, the material choice for the bottom housing of both switches also plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the North Pole V2 enhances the clear and resonant sound profile. This difference means that the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches will be influenced by the material of the bottom housing, showcasing the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in overall switch performance.
While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 have distinct housing materials in both top and bottom parts, the overall typing experience may not drastically differ due to the high quality of both nylon and polycarbonate materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow providing a deeper and fuller sound, while the North Pole V2 offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound quality.
Weight
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of force requirements. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the force needed to register a keystroke and the force required to fully press the key down. The weight of these switches falls into the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between lightness for extended typing sessions and a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to other factors such as sound, smoothness, and overall feel rather than actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. This consistency ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience when using either of these switches. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches highlights the precision and attention to detail in Gateron's switch design, providing users with reliable and consistent performance regardless of which option they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 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 praised for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This is in contrast to the Gateron North Pole V2, which offers a more subdued sound profile, resulting in a dampened and subtle sound during key presses. When it comes to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is known for its gummy feel, offering a unique typing sensation similar to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear.
Overall, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the North Pole V2 linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is characterized by its thocky and buttery qualities, providing a smooth and stable typing experience, the North Pole V2 stands out with its gummy and creamy feel, offering a more elastic and bouncy typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would come down to individual preferences regarding sound and typing feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you value a smooth keystroke experience with a thocky and bassy sound, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gummy and muted sound profile with a unique typing sensation that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, the North Pole V2 could be the switch that suits your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences for typing feel and sound, so choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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