Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out for its smooth keystrokes, aerodynamically designed stems, and enhanced stability, making it ideal for those who prioritize a buttery, thocky, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a medium-high level of tactility, deep thocks, and a bouncy feel, appealing to individuals looking for a clacky, high-pitched, and sharp typing sensation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is clear that the Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring incorporates polycarbonate for both components. The Nylon housing in the Milky Yellow is known for its softer nature, which helps absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is stiffer, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allows for RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials for the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through sound profiles influenced by their respective materials. The use of nylon in the Milky Yellow creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer properties, while the use of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring results in a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Both materials offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound, showcasing the versatility in switch design and construction.
With the top and bottom housings of the switches playing distinct roles in the typing experience, the nylon and polycarbonate materials contribute to creating a balanced and satisfying feel for users. While the nylon bottom housing of the Milky Yellow impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring adds to the sharpness and crispness of the sound profile. Similarly, the top housing of each switch influences the sound when releasing a key, with the nylon housing in the Milky Yellow creating a deeper sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milky Yellow has a heavier 65-gram bottom out force while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly lighter 63-gram bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, while individuals who enjoy a slightly firmer keystroke may lean towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we find that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback with both switches. In conclusion, the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are equal, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and rich tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a sharp and crisp noise during keystrokes. Both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that can enhance the typing feel depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with seamless keystrokes. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel, providing a high level of feedback intensity and responsiveness. The tactile bump in the Aflion Shadow switch is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress, making it suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milky Yellow switch delivers a deep and satisfying sound with a smooth typing experience, the Shadow switch provides a sharp, crisp sound and a distinct tactile feedback. Choosing between the two switches would largely depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Nonetheless, both switches are known for their innovative design features that enhance overall typing performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a smoother and more stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy deep, resonating thocky sound profiles, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different needs and preferences, so choose accordingly based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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