Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to unique characteristics that can significantly shape their typing experience. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stands out with its innovative CAP structure, designed to provide exceptionally smooth keystrokes, while its aerodynamically shaped stems enhance airflow and minimize resistance, making each key press feel buttery and bassy. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and stable typing experience, thanks to the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post that reduces wobble. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 offers a captivating balance of comfort and precision, featuring a neutral sound profile and medium-light weight that appeals to a wide range of users, from casual typists to hardcore enthusiasts. Its subdued and mild characteristics make it a versatile choice, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without overwhelming feedback. With both switches presenting unique advantages, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow excelling in smoothness and stability, and the Dareu Sky V3 shining in comfort and versatility, it’s essential to consider personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V3 switches, a notable difference arises in the composition of the top housing. The CAP V2 utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is renowned for delivering a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. This means that when typing on a switch with a nylon top, you can expect a rounder and more muted sound, as the nylon absorbs more sound energy. In contrast, the Sky V3 features a polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharper, more resonant sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances clarity and adds a higher-pitched quality to the typing experience, making it a preferred choice for users who appreciate a crisper auditory feedback when typing.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality means that while the top housings of the two switches contribute differently to sound profiles, the bottom housings reinforce a similar characteristic. The nylon bottom housing in both models allows for that deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out the keys. In essence, regardless of the differences in top housing materials, users will experience more of the pronounced and plush sound and feel during the act of bottoming out on both switches, courtesy of the nylon used in the bottom housing.
The contrasting strengths of the top housing materials reveal their respective influences on the overall typing experience. Users of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow will enjoy a softer, warmer sound while using the switch, especially when the keys are released. Conversely, the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing will illicit a sharper, captivating sound. However, with both switches sharing nylon for their bottom housing, the two will converge in their performance during key actuation, producing sound profiles that are deep and rounded. Therefore, while the tactile and auditory experiences during release differ, the bottoming-out aspect remains consistent between the two, ensuring that users get a fulfilling typing experience no matter which switch they choose.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch present a comparison of actuation and bottom out forces that speaks to different user preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires a 50-gram actuation force and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which can provide a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. In contrast, the Sky V3 features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for users who seek a less strenuous typing experience, but its bottom out force remains unknown. This means that users of the Sky V3 may not have a complete understanding of how forceful the bottom contact will feel during their use. Ultimately, while the CAP V2 is heavier overall, offering a more pronounced tactile feedback, the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 may appeal to those who type for extended periods or enjoy a softer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same travel distance from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar tactile sensation and overall keystroke feel. Since both switches feature this equal travel distance, users can expect comparable performance regarding key actuation and responsiveness. Therefore, whether using the Gateron or the Dareu switch, the experience should feel consistent and uniform.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 offers a bassy profile, characterized by a deeper and richer sound with lower frequency tones, which delivers a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. This particular sound can evoke a sense of depth, adding a pleasurable acoustic layer to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 provides a more neutral sound signature that caters to a variety of preferences. Its sound is marked as subdued, producing a dampened noise that is neither too loud nor silent, making it versatile for use in both casual and professional settings without being distracting.
In terms of feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is renowned for its buttery smoothness, creating a fluid and effortless keystroke that enhances typing dexterity and enjoyment. This design facilitates a seamless experience, making it particularly pleasing for users who prioritize a refined tactile response. The Sky V3, on the other hand, offers a mild feel that promotes a gentler typing experience. This middle-ground characteristic makes it a user-friendly option, appealing to both novices and seasoned typists who appreciate a balance of comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches present distinct auditory and tactile characteristics that may suit different users. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow's bassy sound and buttery feel provide a rich and pleasurable typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy deeper auditory feedback and fluid keystrokes. Conversely, the Sky V3's neutral and subdued sound, along with its mild feel, offers a comfortable experience that aligns well with diverse typing preferences. Ultimately, while both switches deliver unique qualities, users can find satisfaction in either option based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-heavy resistance with a deeper, bassy sound profile, and you’re looking for switches that provide a buttery and smooth typing experience, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent choice. This switch’s innovative design minimizes wobble and enhances stability, making it particularly suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a neutral and subdued sound, the Sky V3 offers greater versatility, making it ideal for a broad range of environments, from quiet home offices to bustling workplaces. Its mild keystroke provides a balanced typing experience that caters to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desired typing experience, whether you lean towards the more tactile and pronounced engagement of the Milky Yellow or the softer, more adaptable feel of the Sky V3.
Mentioned in this article
