Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Silver present two distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike, both classified as linear switches. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out for its innovative design, featuring aerodynamically crafted stems with tiny holes that minimize resistance and promote exceptionally smooth keystrokes. This switch is praised for its buttery and thocky sound profile, alongside a bassy and low-pitched feel, making it tantalizing for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory cue while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Silver is a straightforward offering with no particular distinctive characteristics or defined sound profile, often appealing to users who favor simplicity and speed, particularly in gaming scenarios where rapid key presses are crucial. Both switches cater to specific preferences, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow providing a richer typing experience and the Outemu Silver targeting pure performance. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you determine which switch might be the best fit for your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Silver, one of the most distinguishing aspects is the material used for their top housings. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture, which helps absorb sound resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This stands in contrast to the Outemu Silver's polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that projects a higher-pitched and crisper sound. This difference in material not only affects the sound profile but also the tactile feedback experienced by users, making the typing experience significantly different between these two switches.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is composed of nylon. This material is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Silver will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound. This means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, users can expect a similar auditory quality on the lower end of the keystroke due to the nylon composition of the bottom housing in both switches.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch influences the overall typing experience. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow, with its nylon top and bottom housings, exhibits a warm and muffled sound profile, offering a smooth and softer keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Silver showcases a more dynamic auditory landscape with its polycarbonate top housing, balancing a sharper sound with the nylon bottom’s plush characteristics. While users will appreciate the distinct sound profiles elicited by each switch, the overlapping use of nylon in the bottom housings ensures that certain auditory qualities remain consistent across both models, thus allowing some uniformity in the overall experience despite the differing top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch to the Outemu Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces remain the same. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Outemu Silver. This makes the Silver a lighter switch, which is beneficial for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, allowing for longer usage without fatigue. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating that they provide a similar level of resistance when pressed all the way down, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial feel during typing. Overall, the choice between the two may depend on a user's preference for a lighter actuation force versus a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they provide the same feel when pressed down. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect consistent actuation depth and responsiveness between the two switches. Whether you're using one or the other, you'll achieve similar tactile feedback and typing experience, making both switches suitable options for those who prefer a linear switch profile with a standard travel distance.
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 Silver.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch stands out with a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched audio profile that delivers a deep, rich, and satisfying sound upon keystrokes. Users can expect a pleasant thud or soft knock effect when the key is pressed and released, enhancing the overall experience of typing. Conversely, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics noted, leading to an uncertainty regarding its acoustic quality. However, it’s worth noting that the sound produced by any switch can vary depending on the type of keyboard and keycaps used, which can lead to different auditory experiences even among similar switches.
In terms of feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch excels with its buttery smooth keystrokes. This switch offers a seamless typing experience that feels effortless and fluid, making it a favorite among those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, there is no specific feel attributed to the Outemu Silver linear switch, leaving a question mark regarding its typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a rich auditory profile along with a remarkably smooth feel, making it suitable for those who appreciate both sound and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not provide clear information on its sound or feel characteristics, so potential buyers might need to consider personal preferences or seek reviews from other users for guidance. Overall, if sound and tactile feedback are key qualities for you, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would be the more compelling option until more data on the Outemu Silver comes to light.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Outemu Silver linear switch should align with your typing preferences and the overall experience you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard. If you value a smooth and stable keystroke with a satisfying thocky sound, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the way to go. Its innovative design minimizes resistance and enhances the typing feel, making it an excellent choice for both typing and gaming, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a straightforward linear switch without the additional characteristics that come with the CAP V2, and you don't mind missing out on sound and feel nuances, the Outemu Silver can serve you well. However, since it lacks any highlighted features or audible response, it's best suited for users who prioritize pure performance without distractions. Ultimately, assess what aspects—sound, feel, and overall typing experience—mean the most to you, and make your decision accordingly.
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