Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Quinn offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes, minimal resistance, and enhanced stability, making it ideal for those seeking a buttery, thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch that provides a crisp, light tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, offering users a snappy, polished, and bouncy typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that appeal to different users based on their 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Quinn feature nylon top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon material in both switches is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, which creates a deeper and fuller sound while typing. This contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile that is preferred by many keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite the similarities in housing material between the two switches, there may be subtle differences in the typing experience due to the rest of the switch components. These differences may manifest in the bottom-out sound and feel, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact in this aspect. Additionally, the top housing may influence the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the intricate interplay of different components in determining the overall typing feel and sound of a switch.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Gateron Quinn showcase the benefits of nylon housing in creating a satisfying typing experience. While the nylon material in the switches absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the individual characteristics of each switch may contribute to slight variations in typing feel and sound. Ultimately, users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with either switch, thanks to the superior sound-absorbing properties of nylon housing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Quinn's 59 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Milky Yellow requires a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the Quinn's 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, but the Quinn requires slightly more force for actuation while the Milky Yellow requires slightly more force for bottoming out. Overall, users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Milky Yellow, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the Quinn. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. This means that the Quinn offers a slightly shallower key press experience compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Quinn due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press depth may lean towards the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound, delivering a crisp, sharp, and immersive typing sound with each keystroke. Both switches offer a unique sound profile with characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them suitable for users seeking a specific auditory feedback during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing sensation, combining responsiveness, smoothness, elasticity, prominent tactility, and a buttery feel for a dynamic and engaging typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback and typing sensations that cater to users who prioritize a specific feel while typing.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow switch provides a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a buttery feel, while the Quinn switch offers a crisp and resonant sound with a combination of snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy tactile feedback. Depending on their preferences, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience with tailored auditory and tactile sensations. Additionally, both switches offer stability, reduced wobble, and refined keystrokes, making them reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking quality switches for their setups.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smooth and stable typing experience with a deeper, rich sound profile, opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. The innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems ensure smooth keystrokes, while the low-pitched, thocky sound adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a unique combination of tactile feedback and a resonant sound, the Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. The Quinn switches offer a crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, immersive sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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