Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two top-of-the-line mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow both offer exceptional features that appeal to discerning users. The Aqua King (V3) stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding effortlessly on ice. Categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', this linear switch promises a magical typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow showcases smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure, which reduces resistance and provides stability with its enlarged and hollowed-out stem post. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', this linear switch offers a refined typing feel. While both switches have their unique strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the switch's sound profile by creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, both switches exhibit differences in their chosen materials. The Aqua King (V3) uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, which results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Conversely, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow opts for a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to polycarbonate.
When considering how the housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it's essential to note that the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Aqua King (V3) and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow differ in their housing materials, with polycarbonate and nylon offering distinct sound profiles, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and sound based on the unique characteristics each material brings to the table.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, but the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is considered medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent travel distance. Therefore, the results in terms of travel distance will be similar for both switches. While some switches on the market may vary in their travel distances, the Aqua King (V3) and CAP V2 Milky Yellow are equal in this aspect, providing a reliable and predictable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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 Aqua King (V3) is known for its subdued sound, offering a more gentle and subtle typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as thocky, bassy, and low-pitched, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile during key presses. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it is essential to consider the overall setup when evaluating sound quality.
Moving on to the feel, the Aqua King (V3) is praised for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance. Similarly, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and efficiency through their unique tactile qualities, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow have different sound profiles and tactile feels, both switches prioritize smoothness and efficiency in typing. Whether you prefer a more subdued sound with a silky typing feel or a thocky sound with a buttery keystroke sensation, both switches offer excellent performance in their respective characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a typing experience that feels frictionless, almost like gliding on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) may be the ideal choice for you. The smooth and effortless keystrokes offered by this switch can enhance your typing efficiency and enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a buttery typing sensation that provides a seamless and uniform keystroke experience, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow might be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, if you appreciate a slightly heavier bottom out force for a firmer keystroke feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's 65-gram bottom out force might be more to your liking compared to the Aqua King (V3) with a 62-gram bottom out force. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing feel and sound profile that best aligns with your personal preferences and needs.
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