Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is cherished for its innovative CAP structure, which ensures extraordinarily smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance for a silky action. With aerodynamically designed stems featuring tiny holes for efficient air release and an enlarged, hollowed-out stem post for enhanced stability, this linear switch offers a refined typing experience categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum is praised for its unique thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing feel. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum switches are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer similar acoustic benefits thanks to their nylon top and bottom housings, ensuring a consistent sound experience across the board.
Despite sharing the same housing material, the top and bottom housings of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum switches play different roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressure is applied to the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. By dividing the qualities of nylon between the top and bottom housings, both switches are able to deliver a well-rounded sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum switches may have slight differences in their construction, their shared use of nylon housing ensures that users will experience similar benefits in terms of sound quality and typing feel. Whether it's the deep and full sound profile or the softer feel during typing, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience that is enhanced by the acoustic properties of nylon. In the end, both switches bring a level of consistency and reliability to the table, making them solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is clear that the Cold Plum is the heavier option. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is also medium-heavy but slightly heavier than the Milky Yellow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milky Yellow would be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cold Plum for its stronger push force. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with a choice based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can see that the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. This means that the Outemu Cold Plum offers a shallower key press experience, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a slightly deeper key press, which may feel more satisfying to those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feel.
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 Cold Plum.
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
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is known for its thocky and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying typing experience. The innovative CAP structure of these switches ensures a remarkably smooth keystroke, with aerodynamically designed stems and enhanced stability to minimize wobble. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch provides a unique typing experience with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound for enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing feel. While the sound qualities of both switches are different, the feel of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation. As for the Outemu Cold Plum, information on its feel is currently unavailable.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer different sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery typing feel, while the Outemu Cold Plum stands out for its distinct thocky sound and smooth keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy smooth keystrokes with reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and enjoy a unique thocky sound profile with a fully nylon construction, the Outemu Cold Plum switches might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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