Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Silent Brown are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is a linear switch known for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to its aerodynamically designed stems and enhanced stability. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. While the Milky Yellow switch is buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, the Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, muted, and polished. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Silent Brown, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between these two switches.
On the other hand, the top housing material sets these two switches apart, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow featuring a nylon top housing and the TTC Silent Brown opting for a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Silent Brown results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the Milky Yellow's nylon top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Silent Brown switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Silent Brown share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials - nylon for the Milky Yellow and polycarbonate for the Silent Brown - results in distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound (Milky Yellow) or a sharper and crisper sound (Silent Brown), understanding the impact of housing materials can help guide your decision when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Brown switch slightly lighter in terms of actuation force but similar in bottom out force. The difference in actuation force may result in a more sensitive typing experience with the Silent Brown switch, while the Milky Yellow switch may provide a more substantial and secure feeling when typing. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, making them suitable for users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Milky Yellow being slightly longer than the Silent Brown. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Milky Yellow. In general, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, with the Milky Yellow providing a slightly longer travel distance than the Silent Brown.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences with the Milky Yellow being more substantial and bass-heavy while the Silent Brown focuses on minimizing sound for a quieter environment.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Silent Brown switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch is noted for its mild and polished qualities, providing a gentler typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Milky Yellow offers enhanced stability and reduced wobble for a refined typing feel, the Silent Brown delivers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of tactile feedback and a satisfying rounded bump.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the TTC Silent Brown switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milky Yellow provides a deep and rich sound profile with enhanced stability and reduced wobble, while the Silent Brown focuses on creating a muted sound profile and a comfortable typing experience with gentle tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Milky Yellow offering a more substantial sound experience and stability, and the Silent Brown focusing on a quieter sound profile and comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and needs. If you value a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, enhanced stability, and a thocky, bassy, low-pitched sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing style and personal preferences. Whichever switch you choose, both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and TTC Silent Brown offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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