Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth keystrokes thanks to the innovative CAP structure. With aerodynamically designed stems and enhanced stability from enlarged stem posts, this switch offers a buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is also a linear switch but lacks specific defining features. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a unique typing feel, the Outemu Black may appeal to those who prefer a more standard 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Black, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the nylon material. Typing on these switches will result in a duller and rounder sound, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Outemu Black.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the differences between the two switches become apparent. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Black uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is stiffer than nylon, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Outemu Black switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Black will come down to personal preferences in sound and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon bottom housing, the differences in top housing material result in distinctly different sound characteristics. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Outemu Black with its polycarbonate top housing, while users who enjoy a duller and rounder sound may opt for the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow with its nylon top housing.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Milky Yellow is 65 grams, while the Black switch has a bottom out force of 82 grams. The Milky Yellow switch can provide a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where less force is preferred. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch offers a heavier and more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth when using either of these switches. The travel distance of 4mm for both switches ensures a consistent typing experience, making it difficult to distinguish between the two based on this factor alone. Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Outemu Black linear switches offer users a reliable and uniform typing experience with identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Black.
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 renowned for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is praised for its buttery keystroke experience, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation for the user. Meanwhile, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Black linear switch, making it challenging to contrast the two switches in this regard.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch excels in both sound and feel, offering a thocky and buttery experience to users. On the other hand, while details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Black linear switch are lacking, it is likely that users can expect similar results in terms of build quality and overall performance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, sound profile, and overall smoothness. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, a buttery typing feel with a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, and appreciate the innovative CAP structure for smoother keystrokes and reduced wobble, then the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams with a different sound and feel preference, you may lean towards the Outemu Black. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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