Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they each have unique qualities to consider. The CAP Milky Yellows are praised for their smooth keystrokes, thanks to the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. These switches offer stability, reduced wobble, and a refined typing feel, making them a great choice for those seeking a buttery, thocky, bassy, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadows stand out for their pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, with a 63.5g bottom-out. These switches provide a harmonious balance and a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who prefer an invigorating and 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The primary difference between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow lies in their top housing materials. The Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition. While the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow offers a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow delivers a more clear and resonant sound, especially ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
Although the bottom housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are both made of nylon, they still contribute differently to the overall sound profile. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound, which is consistent in both switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience. Despite the shared nylon bottom housing, the distinction in their top housing materials still sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The nylon and polycarbonate top housing materials offer distinct auditory experiences, with the softer nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound in the Milky Yellow, while the stiffer polycarbonate delivers a sharper and crisper sound in the Thunder Shadow. Both switches share a common nylon bottom housing, adding a consistent deep and full sound to their typing experience. Whether you prefer a rounder and duller sound or a more clear and resonant sound, these differences in housing materials cater to various preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Milky Yellow switch is heavier at 65 grams, while the Thunder Shadow switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Milky Yellow switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Thunder Shadow switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Thunder Shadow the shorter option compared to the Milky Yellow. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker key press with the Thunder Shadow, making it potentially more suitable for those looking for a faster response time. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow provides a bit more depth in the key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch is well-known for its smooth keystrokes, enhanced stability, and minimized resistance, resulting in a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a pronounced tactile bump with a balanced medium weight feel and a neutral sound signature. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow provides a buttery typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow delivers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a smooth keystroke with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sound profile characterized as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, then the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a pronounced tactile bump, a harmonious balance of weight, and a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Thunder Shadow might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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