Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its remarkably smooth keystrokes due to the innovative CAP structure, aerodynamically designed stems, and enhanced stability features. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp tactile experience. While the Milky Yellow switch offers a buttery and low-pitched typing experience, the Piano Pro switch excels in being bouncy, clacky, and silky. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches create a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying for typists who enjoy a quieter typing experience.
Despite both switches sharing the same nylon housing material, they may differ in terms of the overall feel and sound profile due to other design factors. For instance, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro may have varying spring weights, stem designs, or lubrication levels that can impact the typing experience. These differences can result in variations in sound, tactility, and overall typing feel, showcasing how even with the same housing materials, switches can provide unique characteristics.
Ultimately, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer similar sound profiles and typing experiences due to their shared nylon housing material. Typists can expect a deeper and fuller sound when using either switch, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. However, subtle differences in other design elements may still impact the overall feel and performance of each switch, providing users with a choice between two switches that share a common housing material but offer distinct typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Piano Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Milky Yellow is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer periods of use may lean towards the Piano Pro, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the Milky Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the V3 Piano Pro has a shorter travel distance than the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. The 4.0mm distance of the Milky Yellow is more traditional, offering a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the 3.5mm distance of the V3 Piano Pro provides a shallower and quicker feel, which is often preferred by gamers for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 offers a thocky and bassy sound profile with low-pitched tones, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound signature, offering a sharp, snappy sound with higher-pitched tones for a lively and crisp typing experience. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound aesthetics, as well as considering factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with seamless and effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch provides a bouncy and creamy sensation, with a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience that feels like gliding fingers across the keys with ease. The Polished and Silky descriptors also indicate a refined finish and reduced friction, contributing to a sleek typing experience with the Akko switch.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow emphasizes a deep and satisfying sound with a buttery typing feel, the V3 Piano Pro showcases a lively and crisp sound with a bouncy and silky typing experience. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches ensure a premium quality and performance that newcomers to mechanical keyboards will appreciate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and value a smooth keystroke with minimal wobble and enhanced stability, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the ideal choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, along with a buttery typing experience, this switch may suit your preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and appreciate a snappy sound signature with a smooth actuation, the Akko V3 Piano Pro would be a suitable option. If you enjoy clacky and resonant sound profiles, along with a bouncy, creamy, polished, or silky typing experience, then the V3 Piano Pro may be more aligned with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your specific preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that best complements your typing style and preferences.
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