Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its innovative CAP structure, providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes and reduced resistance for a seamless typing experience. Additionally, the enlarged stem post enhances stability and minimizes wobble, perfect for those who prefer a 'buttery', 'thocky', 'bassy', and 'low-pitched' typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu is ideal for individuals seeking a delicate typing experience, with a material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. Categorized as 'neutral', 'mild', 'thocky', 'feathery', 'subtle', and 'polished', the Yanyu is perfect for those who type for extended periods. 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
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the SP-Star Yanyu incorporates a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for both the top and bottom housing. While both switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, the Yanyu's unique blend offers a slightly brighter sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. The use of UHMWPE in the Yanyu's housing blend may contribute to this difference in sound, providing a distinct auditory experience for users.
Although both switches use nylon in their housing materials, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and SP-Star Yanyu exhibit variations in sound profile due to the additional UHMWPE blend in the Yanyu. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as having a duller and rounder sound, while the Yanyu offers a more vibrant and pleasant sound experience. This difference can be attributed to the unique blend of materials used in the Yanyu's housing, showcasing how slight variations in housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
When comparing the top and bottom housing of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Yanyu, the qualities of each housing material are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in both the top and bottom housing, users are likely to experience a consistent and harmonious sound profile throughout their typing experience, albeit slightly brighter than that of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 43 grams, indicating that it is a lighter switch. This means that the Yanyu switch will require less force to press down on the keys compared to the Milky Yellow switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Yanyu switch may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Milky Yellow switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users will experience a similar key press feeling when using either of these switches. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that typing on a keyboard equipped with either one will result in consistent and predictable results. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and overall typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch offers a thocky and bassy sound profile, characterized by a deep and satisfying tone during key presses. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch provides a neutral and thocky sound, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow leaning towards a deeper and richer tone, while the Yanyu maintains a more moderate and versatile sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis, keycaps, and other factors.
When it comes to feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing feel. The Yanyu switch provides a gentle typing experience with light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the CAP V2 Milky Yellow focusing on a smooth and uniform feel, and the Yanyu providing a gentle and polished typing sensation.
Overall, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and SP-Star Yanyu switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile, along with a buttery and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu offers a versatile and neutral sound, paired with a gentle and feathery typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the more pronounced characteristics of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the approachable qualities of the SP-Star Yanyu. Rest assured, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience with their respective sound and feel attributes.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the SP-Star Yanyu switches, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, along with a smooth and stable typing experience, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams for a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you are looking for in a keyboard switch.
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