Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), two distinct mechanical keyboard switches emerge. The Milky Yellow switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes due to the innovative CAP structure, which minimizes resistance and enhances stability for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to individuals seeking a tactile and silenced switch, perfect for noise-sensitive environments with its medium bump and subdued audio feedback. While the Milky Yellow offers a buttery and low-pitched typing experience, the Silent T1 provides a stepped and polished feel. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeals, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. 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
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) lies in the material used for the top housing. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, providing a softer and more absorbent material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinction in housing material not only affects the sound produced by each switch but also plays a role in their overall aesthetics, with the transparent nature of polycarbonate being particularly advantageous for RGB lighting purposes.
Although the top housing material of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is different, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and higher sound absorption properties. As a result, the bottom housing material of these switches contributes to the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the difference in top housing material, users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on these switches due to the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch. While nylon is preferred for its softer and more absorbent qualities in the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, polycarbonate offers a crisper and more resonant sound profile in the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent T1's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Milky Yellow at 65 grams and the Silent T1 at 67 grams, both falling under the medium-heavy category. The actuation force affects the initial key press, while the bottom out force determines the resistance when fully depressing the key. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Milky Yellow for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Silent T1 for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it's clear that they both offer the same amount of key travel, which means users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys move when pressed. Whether you choose the Gateron switch or the Durock switch, you can be confident that the travel distance will be the same, allowing for a similar typing feel and overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 linear switch offers a thocky and bassy sound with a low-pitched tone, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch produces a more muted sound, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow emphasizing a rich and deep tone, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) focuses on minimizing noise output.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that ensures effortless and uniform typing sensations. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, where users can feel both pre-travel and post-travel stages during key presses. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. These tactile qualities of the switches cater to different preferences for typing feedback, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow focusing on a seamless and buttery feel, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a more distinct and accented tactile response.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow emphasizes a deep and satisfying sound with a buttery smooth keystroke feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a muted sound profile with a stepped and accented tactile response. Whether you prefer a thocky and bassy typing experience or a muted and tactile feedback, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke with minimal resistance and reduced wobble, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a tactile bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and a silenced typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the better option. Additionally, take into account the sound profile you prefer, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offering a thocky and bassy sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a muted typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific preferences and needs in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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