Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stand out as popular choices. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, innovative CAP structure, and aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes for minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is well-known for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound, silky smooth type feel, and unique combination of clacky bottom-out sound. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched' experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This variation in top housing material contributes to a significant difference in sound and feel when typing on these switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature nylon bottom housings. This similarity means that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic composition of nylon. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a consistent typing experience across both switches. In this aspect, users can expect similar results from these switches despite the differences in their top housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear differ in their top housing materials, both switches share a common nylon bottom housing. This shared feature results in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on these switches. However, the contrasting top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles, with the nylon top housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow producing a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear creates a crisper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding the sound profile and typing feel desired.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, some differences can be noted. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Milky Yellow requiring 65 grams and the Semi-Silent Linear needing 62 grams. The Milky Yellow switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a medium feel. Given the lighter actuation force of the Milky Yellow switch, users may find it more conducive for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may appeal to those seeking a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is 0.3 mm longer than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to everyone, but for some it can make a significant impact on how the switch feels when typing or gaming. For those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the preferred choice, while those who lean towards a shallower key press might find the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and choosing between the two may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound, which is quieter and more subtle compared to traditional switches. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow may appeal to those who enjoy a more resonant and bass-heavy sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear may be preferred by users looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing sensation that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is noted for being snappy and polished, ensuring a responsive and refined typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow catering towards a seamless and uniform typing feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear appeals to those looking for a more approachable and responsive typing experience.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile along with a buttery typing feel, ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter and more subdued sound, paired with a mild and snappy typing feel that caters to those seeking a more refined and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with both switches promising a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky sound profile, then the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, a subdued sound profile, and a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align best with your typing style and noise level preferences.
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