Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its smooth keystrokes and innovative CAP structure, offering a buttery and thocky typing experience with minimized resistance for a smoother action. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is praised for its maximum tactility, providing a sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack for a more resonant and snappy typing experience. Each switch has its unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top and bottom housing. Both nylon and POM are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, with nylon being softer and absorbing more sound than POM. However, the POM housing of the T1 (Sunflower) is said to produce a relatively more muted sound compared to the nylon housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Despite these differences, both housing materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound characteristics.
Although the top housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in material, both provide a pleasing sound profile on the deeper side. The nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow offers a fuller sound, while the POM top housing of the T1 provides a more muted tone. When it comes to the bottom housing, both nylon and POM housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the T1 contributes to a unique and deeper sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) housing materials comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences, with nylon being softer and creating a fuller sound compared to POM. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile or a more muted tone, both housing materials provide a unique typing experience that is sure to enhance any mechanical keyboard setup. While the housing materials may differ between the two switches, the end result is a satisfying typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we see a difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of weight, making them suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel to their keystrokes. However, the slight difference in bottom out force may be noticeable to some users, with the POM T1 (Sunflower) requiring slightly more force to fully press the key compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar feeling of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. This makes them ideal choices for those who prefer a standard travel distance without any variation.Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a reliable and comfortable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched profile, resulting in a deep and rich sound during key presses. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch provides a resonant and clean sound that is higher-pitched, delivering a sharp tactile experience. Depending on personal preference and setup, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may produce a more mellow and bass-heavy sound compared to the brighter and crisper sound of the POM T1 (Sunflower).
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, providing a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump. The sharp tactility of the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch ensures a responsive and immersive typing sensation, while the buttery feel of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a seamless and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch provides a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery feel, emphasizing smooth keystrokes and stability. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch delivers a resonant and sharp sound with a sharp and invigorating tactile feel, highlighting a strong tactile bump and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force with a smooth keystroke and minimal wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a great option. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum tactility with a sharp tactile bump and a clean, resonant sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize these factors in your typing experience.