Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star RedBlue are two options that stand out. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. This switch offers a buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched typing experience, with enhanced stability and reduced wobble for a refined feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue is known for providing a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. This switch is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch offers unique features and qualities that cater to 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
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star RedBlue differ in their housing materials, with the Milky Yellow featuring a nylon top and bottom housing while the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing sound, whereas polycarbonate is stiffer, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the SP-Star RedBlue allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The transparent nature of polycarbonate adds a visual appeal to the switch, making it stand out in a setup. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow's nylon housing delivers a more muted and rounder sound, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing quality.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the nylon and polycarbonate housings provide different typing experiences, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying sound and feel. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Milky Yellow or a sharper and more resonant sound with the RedBlue, both switches can meet your typing needs effectively.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, one can see a difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown. When it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow requires 65 grams, whereas the RedBlue needs 57 grams. This makes the RedBlue a lighter option compared to the Milky Yellow, which is medium-heavy. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much pressure it takes to press all the way down. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the RedBlue may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Milky Yellow. Ultimately, the weight of the switch should be considered based on individual preferences for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth with both switches. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, they may still differ in other features such as actuation force or typing feel. It is worth considering these differences before deciding which switch would be more suitable for your typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switch is known for its thocky and bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, catering to those who prefer a more mellow tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the contrary, the SP-Star RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing sensation with a refined finish. These differences in feel cater to different preferences, with the Milky Yellow switch emphasizing a seamless and effortless typing sensation, whereas the RedBlue switch focuses on a more approachable and polished typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow switch emphasizes a thocky and buttery experience, the RedBlue switch provides a low-pitched and polished typing experience. Choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the specific desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfactory results based on the user's preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke with enhanced stability, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so take into account your own typing style and sound preferences before making a decision.
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