Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their own unique features to consider. The Gateron Milky Yellow is renowned for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to the aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes that reduce air resistance for a seamless typing experience. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post enhances stability and minimizes wobble, perfect for those seeking a buttery, thocky feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, creating a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel when typing. With a thocky and low-pitched profile, the Snow switch offers a neutral typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Snow both feature nylon top housings, which contribute to a deep and full sound profile when typing. However, the Dareu Snow's POK top housing material offers increased smoothness and durability compared to the nylon used in the CAP V2. The POK material is known for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional strength, making it an excellent choice for creating smooth and clacky switches that can withstand wear and tear exceptionally well.
In terms of bottom housings, both the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Snow utilize nylon, which again leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing material influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a soft and absorbent surface that contributes to a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share this characteristic, the Dareu Snow's POK top housing material may still offer a slight advantage in terms of overall durability and shock resistance.
Overall, while both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Dareu Snow share similarities in their use of nylon for bottom housing, the Dareu Snow's incorporation of POK material for the top housing sets it apart in terms of smoothness and durability. The POK material in the Dareu Snow offers a smoother typing experience and greater resistance to wear and tear compared to the nylon top housing of the CAP V2. In this sense, users can expect similar sound profiles when typing on both switches, but the Dareu Snow may provide a slightly more premium feel and longevity due to its POK top housing material.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is slightly heavier at 65 grams, compared to the Dareu Snow's 60 grams. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Dareu Snow offers a medium force. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly firmer feel when typing on the CAP V2 Milky Yellow, whereas the Dareu Snow may feel slightly lighter during use. Both switches are ideal for those who prefer a moderate actuation force, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow being the heavier option for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milky Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Snow has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time. Both switches offer different feelings when typing, with the Milky Yellow providing a more deliberate key press and the Snow offering a quicker, more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 considering the sound qualities of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Dareu Snow linear switches, both switches are described as producing a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound profile, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow being characterized as more bassy and low-pitched compared to the Snow switch's neutral sound profile. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for a deeper or more neutral sound during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, emphasizing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively rebound when pressed. This difference in tactile feedback can influence the typing experience and ultimately comes down to individual preference for a smoother or bouncier feel while typing.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a bassy and buttery typing experience, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with a neutral sound profile and bouncy feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper sound with stable keystrokes or a more neutral sound with lively key rebounds, both switches can cater to different preferences for an enhanced typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a personal keyboard setup may be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences the most.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound with a buttery feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and appreciate a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound with a bouncy feel, the Dareu Snow switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prioritize and enjoy the most.
Mentioned in this article
