Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often seek the perfect blend of feel, sound, and smoothness to enhance their typing experience. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch stands out with its innovative CAP structure, designed to deliver buttery smooth keystrokes while minimizing resistance through strategically placed aerodynamics. Users can enjoy a thocky, bassy sound profile that adds depth to every tap. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl leverages a unique ball-bearing mechanism, which significantly reduces friction for an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience. The medium-high pitched sound signature provides a different auditory feedback that many find pleasing and crisp. Both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts but deliver distinct typing sensations—one embraces a rich, low-pitched acoustics and stability while the other prioritizes a silky-smooth 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Wuque Studio WS Pearl both feature nylon as their primary housing material, which is renowned in the switch-making community for its ability to produce a distinctively rich auditory experience. The nylon top and bottom housings of both switches react similarly during typing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic can be attributed to nylon's softness relative to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound effectively and create a more rounded acoustic atmosphere. As both switches utilize nylon in their construction, users can expect comparable auditory experiences when using either switch.
In terms of construction, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and WS Pearl maintain uniformity not just in material but also in their design philosophy. Both switches aim to minimize harshness and deliver a smoother typing feel through their nylon housing, which serves to soften the impact and enhance the overall tactile feedback. The absorption qualities of nylon ensure that the bottom-out sound is less jarring, and, consequently, both switches provide comfortable typing experiences conducive to extended use. Consequently, typists seeking a muted and pleasant auditory output will find that both switches deliver on this front due to their identical housing materials.
However, even though the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and WS Pearl share the same material composition of nylon for both their top and bottom housings, subtle variances in their internal mechanisms or designs might still influence the overall typing experience. For instance, the way these switches are tuned or the specifics of their stem design could create differences in feel or sound profile, despite the common nylon housing. Thus, while users can expect similar acoustic results from both the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl due to their identical housing materials, the overall typing experience may still diverge based on additional design factors unique to each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means the CAP V2 Milky Yellow requires more effort to press down and bottom out, offering a more substantial typing experience suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the WS Pearl's lighter forces are ideal for those who seek comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions, reducing fatigue. Therefore, users looking for a lighter option should opt for the WS Pearl, while those who enjoy a heavier switch should choose the CAP V2 Milky Yellow.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch measures 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the CAP V2 switches provide a more pronounced key travel, which some users may prefer for the tactile depth and the satisfying feedback it offers. On the other hand, the WS Pearl's 3.5 mm travel distance caters more to gamers who favor quick response times, as shorter distances allow for faster actuation. Therefore, if you seek a deeper, more robust typing experience, the Gateron CAP V2 is the better choice, while those who appreciate speed and a more immediate feel may gravitate towards the WS Pearl. Ultimately, your preference will guide you towards the switch that best meets your needs, whether that’s the longer or shorter travel option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00.
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 switch is characterized by a deep, satisfying tone often described as thocky and bassy. When pressed, these switches produce a low-pitched auditory feedback similar to a soft knock, which many typists find appealing. This rich sound signature adds an enjoyable layer to the typing experience, making every keystroke resonate with a thud-like quality that can be very satisfying. In contrast, information regarding the sound characteristics of the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch is currently unknown, though it’s worth noting that sound quality can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard frame and keycaps, so the final auditory output may vary greatly.
When it comes to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch excels with its buttery keystroke experience. The design minimizes resistance and enhances stability, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation that users often praise. This buttery feel translates to a seamless experience, allowing for extended typing sessions with reduced fatigue. The specific tactile qualities of the WS Pearl switch remain unknown as no description is provided; thus, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. However, the innovative ball-bearing system in the WS Pearls is intended to reduce friction, which may also lead to a smooth typing experience, though the actual tactile feedback would require personal testing to confirm.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a well-defined auditory and tactile experience characterized by its thocky sound and buttery feel, the specifics surrounding the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch's sound and feel remain unclear. If you favor a deeper-sounding switch with a smooth keystroke, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would likely serve you well. However, the unique design of the WS Pearl warrants exploration, as it may provide a similarly smooth typing experience, though aspects of sound and feel would need personal preference evaluation to gauge how closely they mirror the experience of the Milky Yellow switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches will depend largely on your preferences for tactile feedback, sound, and pressure point. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a satisfying thocky and bassy sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow might be your go-to option. Its innovative design minimizes resistance while providing stability, making it an excellent choice for those who value a buttery feel in every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and appreciate a truly unique smoothness that’s enhanced by ball-bearings, the WS Pearl is likely a better fit. The medium pressure and high-pitched sound signature will cater to those who want a distinct auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a more substantial feel and sound or a lightweight, incredibly smooth keystroke experience.
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