Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal Brown present contrasting characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience due to its innovative CAP structure, minimal resistance, enhanced stability, and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that provides a tactile bump during actuation for a more pronounced feedback. While the CAP Milky Yellows are praised for being 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Crystal Brown switches do not fall under a specific categorization. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, making them suitable for various 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is clear that the Nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal Brown creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The difference in sound is attributed to the softness of Nylon which absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound, compared to the stiffness of polycarbonate which leads to a clearer and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing of the Crystal Brown switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience that the Milky Yellow switch lacks.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize a Nylon material, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity in housing material between the two switches may result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as the qualities of the Nylon bottom housing will be present in both switches. The use of Nylon for the bottom housing ensures that the switches maintain a consistent sound profile, despite the differences in the top housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Crystal Brown will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While the Milky Yellow switch offers a softer and deeper sound profile with its Nylon housing, the Crystal Brown switch provides a sharper and clearer sound with its polycarbonate housing. Both switches share the benefit of Nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a duller, rounder sound or a crisper, higher-pitched sound will determine which switch is the better fit for your specific typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow is heavier in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown. The Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as a medium-light switch. The actuation force for both switches determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much force is needed to fully press the key. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Crystal Brown may be the better option. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Milky Yellow. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of both switches, it is evident that they provide a consistent and similar typing experience in terms of how far down the key can be pressed. This means that whether you choose the Gateron or the Outemu switch, you will get similar results in terms of the travel distance. Users can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience with either switch, as both offer a comfortable travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Crystal Brown.
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, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has no specific sound descriptors provided. When it comes to feel, the Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Crystal Brown switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, as well as a buttery feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch would be a great choice. However, without specific information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch, it may be difficult to directly compare the two switches in these aspects. It is essential to consider all available information and possibly try out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in the overall typing experience, so what works for one person may not work for another.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the level of bottom out force that best suits your typing preference. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Milky Yellow switch with 65 grams may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a smooth keystroke with enhanced stability and reduced wobble, the aerodynamically designed stems of the Milky Yellow switch may offer a more refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable for you. While the Crystal Brown switch may not have as many distinct features as the Milky Yellow switch, its tactile feedback and lower bottom out force may be preferable for those who enjoy a softer typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile.
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