Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Taichi 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 Bsun Taichi each offer distinctive features that cater to different typing preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its buttery smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure, which incorporates aerodynamically designed stems with tiny holes to efficiently release air and minimize resistance. This switch also boasts an enlarged, hollowed-out stem post that enhances stability and reduces wobble, creating a refined typing experience characterized by a thocky, bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi captures attention with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and long-pole stem design, along with extended springs and walled stems for unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is ideal for those seeking a softer, more cushioned response in their keystrokes, the Taichi appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate a vibrant auditory feedback and sharp tactile sensations. 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
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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Taichi switches, the differences in their top housing materials significantly influence their overall sound profiles. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound due to its relatively soft, sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience as each keystroke is softer on the ears. In contrast, the Taichi, with its polycarbonate top housing, offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and brightness of the sound, making it more pronounced when releasing a key. This fundamental distinction leads to different acoustic experiences between the two switches, with the waiting tones of each providing users a unique feel and auditory feedback.
The bottom housing for both switches is made of nylon, which standardizes their response in terms of sound and feel when the key is bottomed out. Nylon's properties enable a similar deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, mitigating any discrepancies brought about by the different top housings. When you press down on either switch, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, leading to a rounder and softer experience when the switch is fully engaged. This shared material ensures that while the top housing influences the initial keystroke sound, the bottom housing adds a consistent element that promotes a similar tactile experience across both switches.
Ultimately, despite the contrasting materials used in the top housings of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Taichi, the shared nylon bottom housing ties them together in terms of sound and feel at the bottom-out point. Users seeking a unique auditory experience, with the CAP V2 leaning towards a softer, more muted sound and the Taichi offering a sharper, clearer response, will find value in both switches. While the distinctive characteristics of each switch cater to different preferences, the underlying nylon in the bottom housing ensures that a degree of consistency remains in tactile feedback and overall experience during use.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Bsun Taichi linear switches present a clear contrast in actuation force, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow requiring a heftier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Taichi's lighter 40 grams. This difference means that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is suited for users who prefer a stronger push feel, making it more appealing for those who enjoy a substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Taichi's bottom out force is unknown. The absence of the bottom out measurement for the Taichi makes it challenging to compare this specific aspect, but it might suggest that the Taichi could provide a softer landing. Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is the heavier switch, while the Bsun Taichi is the lighter option, catering to different user preferences based on typing and gaming habits.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch measures 3.6 mm. This comparison reveals that the CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a longer travel distance, making it a better choice for those who favor a more substantial keypress and a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Taichi switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more tactile experience. While the Gateron switch provides a traditional feel often associated with deeper travel, the Bsun Taichi's shorter distance caters to preferences for quicker activation. Ultimately, users will find the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a more hearty depth, whereas the Bsun Taichi is better suited for those who prefer a snappier, more responsive engagement.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is characterized as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, producing a deep and satisfying auditory experience upon keypress. Users can expect a rich, resonant sound that resembles a soft thud or knock when the key is pressed and released. This acoustic quality enhances the overall typing experience by providing feedback that is both enjoyable and immersive. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch does not have a specified sound profile in the provided details. However, it's critical to remember that the acoustics of any switch can also be influenced significantly by the keyboard's construction, the materials of the keycaps, and the surface beneath the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow delivers a buttery typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystroke allows for seamless transitions between key presses, ensuring users enjoy a consistent and effortless typing sensation. This quality is particularly beneficial for typists who appreciate a refined touch while working or gaming. The Bsun Taichi switch, however, lacks specific information regarding its tactile feeling, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons regarding the tactile experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stand out with its rich sound and smooth feel, the Bsun Taichi switch remains an unknown in terms of both sound and feel characteristics. Both switches, if they share similar dimensions and design principles, could potentially offer comparable performance in certain aspects. However, the extensive descriptions available for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow highlight its strengths in audibility and touch, which may appeal to newcomers looking for specific qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches. The choice ultimately hinges on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking within the vast world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, selecting between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and overall typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that strikes a balance between a medium-heavy bottom-out force and an incredibly smooth, buttery keystroke, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is an excellent option. Its thocky and bassy sound profile makes it perfect for users who enjoy a rich auditory experience while typing, whether for gaming or productivity. On the other hand, if you're enticed by the idea of a smoother action with enhanced stability and can appreciate the high-pitched auditory feedback of the Taichi switch, you might lean towards that option for a different tactile sensation. Since the Taichi's features lean towards unique sound production but lack specific bottom-out force metrics, it's essential to consider whether the auditory experience is your primary focus over typing feel. Ultimately, understanding your personal typing habits and sound preferences will guide you toward the right switch for your keyboard setup.