Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow, a linear switch, with the Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, it becomes evident that both have unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is renowned for its smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability, making it a great choice for those seeking a buttery, thocky, and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin stands out for its silent tactile feedback, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it a suitable option for extended typing sessions. 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
43g
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
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko Penguin, both switches utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. This common material choice results in similar typing experiences for users of both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Akko Penguin.
While both switches share the same nylon material for their housing, the design of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko Penguin may vary in terms of the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This means that subtle differences in the design of the switches could result in variations in sound and feel during typing. Users may want to consider these potential differences when choosing between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko Penguin based on their specific typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko Penguin offer a comparable typing experience due to their shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The qualities of nylon, such as creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, are evident in both switches, resulting in a similar overall typing experience. While differences in design may lead to slight variations in sound and feel between the two switches, users can expect a consistent performance when typing on either the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow or the Akko Penguin. Ultimately, personal preference and specific typing needs may play a role in determining which switch is the best fit for individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Penguin is the lighter option in terms of force. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Akko Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This means that the Akko Penguin requires less force to trigger a keystroke and reach the bottom out point compared to the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Gateron switch providing a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier forces, while the Akko switch allows for a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Milky Yellow's 4.0 mm. This means that the Akko Penguin will provide a slightly faster response time due to its shallower travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Akko Penguin for this reason, as it allows for quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantive key press with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Milky Yellow providing a deeper press and the Penguin offering a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is known for its thocky and bassy qualities, producing a deep and satisfying sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is described as muted and neutral, offering a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for environments where noise reduction is desired. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profiles, with the Milky Yellow providing a more pronounced and satisfying sound, while the Penguin offers a quieter and more neutral typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch is often referred to as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with gentle resistance and reduced friction. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Milky Yellow leaning towards a more uniform and buttery feel, while the Penguin offers a lighter and smoother typing sensation.
Considering the information provided, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct sound profiles and typing feels. The Milky Yellow excels in providing a deep, rich sound and a buttery keystroke experience, while the Penguin focuses on noise minimization and a polished, mild typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing comfort. Both switches offer quality construction and innovative features that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, your choice should be based on your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you prefer a smooth and stable typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a thocky, bassy sound profile, the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a rounded tactile bump for feedback and a medium bottom out force, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing habits, environment, and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your individual preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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