Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel 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 the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow by Gateron is known for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems that reduce resistance for a buttery typing experience. Additionally, the enhanced stability provided by the enlarged stem post reduces wobble, improving overall typing feel. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying and pronounced resonance upon bottoming out keys. The decision between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs; 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
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the PH Studio Yoel, we can see a clear difference in sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound can significantly impact the typing experience and the overall feel of the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Yoel allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element that is not possible with the opaque nylon of the Milky Yellow.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches offer unique qualities in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Yoel provides a more muted and pleasing sound. This difference in sound can influence the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be impacted by the qualities of the bottom housing. The unique sound profile created by the POM bottom housing of the Yoel adds an extra layer of depth to the typing experience that may appeal to those looking for a softer and more muted sound.
Despite their differences, both switches use high-quality materials that enhance the overall typing experience. The combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing of the Milky Yellow and Yoel respectively, create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Yoel provides a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the contrasting bottom housings of nylon and POM in the two switches contribute to unique sound profiles that can impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is clear that the Yoel is slightly lighter in both regards. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yoel has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a medium typing experience, but the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a slightly heavier feel compared to the Yoel. The difference in force may not be significant enough to drastically change the user experience, so if someone enjoys a medium typing feel, they can expect similar results with both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how light or heavy of a typing feel someone prefers.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This makes the Yoel switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the CAP V2. The 4 mm travel distance of the CAP V2 is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a standard feel. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Yoel switch is shorter, catering to gamers and individuals who prioritize faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the CAP V2 providing a deeper press and the Yoel offering a quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 offers a thocky, bassy, and low-pitched profile, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying tone with each keystroke. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive, with a resonant quality when keys reach the bottom-out point. Depending on personal preference, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch would provide a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, while the Yoel switch offers a bright and pronounced auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its buttery typing sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is described as creamy, polished, and silky, offering a buttery, smooth, and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, but with different nuances in terms of texture and glide across the keys.
Overall, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and PH Studio Yoel switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences and typing styles. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow excels in providing a thocky and bassy sound with a buttery typing feel, while the Yoel switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a creamy and polished typing sensation. By selecting either of these switches, users can expect to experience a premium typing experience tailored to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a smoother keystroke experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky and bassy sound profile, this switch could enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a chewy and creamy typing sensation with a medium bottom out force, the PH Studio Yoel switch may be more appealing to you. Its bright and clacky sound profile, combined with options for a polished and silky feel, could provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
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