Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure, which minimizes resistance for a smoother action. Additionally, the enlarged and hollowed-out stem post provides enhanced stability, reducing wobble and refining the typing feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is known for its resonant and clacky notes, as well as an impeccable factory lube job that results in silky smooth keystrokes. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', 'High-pitched'. These distinctions make each switch suitable for different typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both use nylon for their top housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon material is known for absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses POM for its top housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. While both switches aim for a satisfying typing experience, the choice between nylon and POM may cater to different preferences in sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the top housing characteristics. The impact of the bottom housing material is more prominent on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing ensures consistency in sound and feel throughout the switch's keystroke, providing a cohesive and reliable performance. Whether it be the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), the nylon bottom housing maintains the desired typing sound and sensation for users seeking a consistent experience.
While the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) share similarities in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing, the differentiation in their top housing materials highlights their distinct sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the Gateron switch emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM top housing of the Sarokeys switch produces a unique and muted sound quality. Ultimately, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in dictating the overall sound experience during typing, catering to different preferences and providing users with options to customize their mechanical keyboards to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is lighter in both aspects. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, which classifies it as a light switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch for a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on weight and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Wine has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The longer travel distance of the Milky Yellow may cater more towards those who prefer a deeper key press and a more pronounced actuation feel, while the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine may be favorable for gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 switch is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the rich bass tones of the Milky Yellow or the crisp and bright notes of the Strawberry Wine.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, ensuring a smooth and fluid typing experience with seamless and effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimized resistance. Both switches offer a refined typing feel, with the Milky Yellow focusing on buttery smoothness and the Strawberry Wine emphasizing silky key presses.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table. The Milky Yellow excels in providing a deep and rich sound with a buttery typing feel, while the Strawberry Wine offers a sharp and resonant sound with a silky smooth keystroke experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the thocky bass tones of the Milky Yellow or the clacky and high-pitched notes of the Strawberry Wine. Ultimately, both switches promise an enhanced typing experience and reliable performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Thus, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a keyboard switch known for its smooth keystrokes, stability, and reduced wobble, then the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that offers clacky notes, impeccable factory lube job, and a silky smooth typing experience, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be a great option for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is ideal, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a buttery or silky typing feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on your individual preferences for a personalized keyboard experience.
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