Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. This switch provides a buttery, thocky feel that is low-pitched and bassy, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a smooth and stable typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. This switch offers a thocky, neutral feel that is low-pitched and bouncy, providing typists with a rich and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
While both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, the Sky V4 offers a different composition for its top housing with the POK material. The POK material in the Sky V4 brings increased durability and smoothness compared to the nylon top housing of the CAP V2. This results in a potentially longer-lasting and snappier feel when typing on the Sky V4 compared to the CAP V2.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon top and bottom housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow are likely to produce a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4's combination of POK top housing and nylon bottom housing may result in a smoother and clackier sound. This difference in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience, with the CAP V2 offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Sky V4 may provide a more distinct and sharp sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 both contribute to the typing experience, the use of POK material in the Sky V4 sets it apart with its increased durability and smoothness. However, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile, the nylon housing of the CAP V2 may be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch will offer a more substantial typing experience due to its higher forces, while the Sky V4 switch will provide a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have different weight profiles, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether a user prefers a lighter or heavier keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V4 has the shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer a different feel based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 switches are described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is noted for its bassy sound, while the Sky V4 has a more neutral sound profile. This means that both switches will provide a satisfying and deep typing experience, with the CAP V2 potentially offering a slightly more bass-heavy tone. However, the actual sound produced will also depend on factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its buttery keystroke, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is known for its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with lively rebound when keys are pressed. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the CAP V2 may lean towards a more seamless and effortless sensation, whereas the Sky V4 provides a more energetic and responsive feel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP V2 excels in providing a deep, bassy sound and a buttery typing experience, ideal for those seeking a smooth and stable keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a more neutral sound profile with a bouncy and dynamic feel, catering to typists who prefer a more lively and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel, as both switches offer a high-quality and enjoyable experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the bottom out force that suits your preference. The Milky Yellow offers a medium-heavy 65g bottom out force, providing a stable typing experience with reduced wobble, making it ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Sky V4 features a medium-light 55g bottom out force, offering a smoother keystroke with a deeper sound profile thanks to its POK material top housing. If you enjoy a more pronounced and rich typing experience, the Sky V4 might be a better choice for you. Additionally, the Milky Yellow produces a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound, paired with a buttery feel, while the Sky V4 offers a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound with a bouncy feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force, ensuring an optimal typing experience tailored to your liking.
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