Kailh Box Royal vs. Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow stand out for their distinct characteristics. The Box Royal is praised for its intense tactility, making it a top choice for those who prefer a sharp, almost aggressive tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a smoother keystroke experience, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stems. The Gateron switch is known for its buttery feel and low-pitched sound profile, which may appeal to users seeking a more refined 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, both switches use nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. The use of nylon in both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
However, where the two switches may differ is in the specific design and construction of their housing materials. While both switches use nylon, the exact composition and thickness of the material may vary, leading to subtle differences in sound and feel. The Box Royal may have a slightly different sound profile compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow due to variations in the nylon material used in their housings. These differences may be more noticeable to users who are particularly attuned to the nuances of switch housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow will come down to personal preference and the specific sound and feel that each user is looking for in a switch. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile thanks to the use of nylon in their housings, but the slight differences in material composition and design may lead to subtle variations in typing experience. Ultimately, users should try both switches to determine which one best suits their preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch with a 50-gram actuation force. However, the Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams in contrast to the 65 grams required for the CAP V2 Milky Yellow. This means that the Box Royal provides a lighter initial keystroke but requires more force when bottoming out, while the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a slightly heavier actuation force but lighter bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances, the Box Royal provides a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Box Royal for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10.
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 Kailh Box Royal tactile switch offers a high-pitched, sharp and crisp sound profile when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch provides a thocky and bassy sound with a lower frequency range. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is known for its sharp and intense tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch offers a buttery and smooth keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The tactile feel of these switches differs significantly, catering to individuals seeking different levels of feedback and smoothness in their typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch excels in providing a sharp and aggressive tactile experience with a higher-pitched sound profile. In comparison, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch focuses on delivering a buttery and smooth keystroke with a thocky and bassy sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can elevate the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer sharp tactility or smooth keystrokes, both switches cater to specific needs, ensuring a satisfying typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values intense tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch may be the perfect choice for you. The sharp and crisp tactile feedback, coupled with a relatively louder sound profile, can enhance your typing experience and provide a satisfying feel with each key press. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke experience with a thocky, bassy sound profile and enhanced stability to reduce wobble, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch might be more suitable for you. The innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic design of these switches offer a more fluid and uniform typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel.
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