Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron CAP Anniversary stand out for different reasons. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option, perfect for quiet environments such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight that provides a satisfying keystroke feel without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch is a linear choice, known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. While the Aliaz is described as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the CAP Anniversary is characterized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preferences and 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Aliaz has a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, while the CAP Anniversary uses a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aliaz, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
One noticeable difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron CAP Anniversary is in their bottom housing. While the Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper sound profile and crisper feel, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the overall sound profile with its stiffness and clarity. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches play a significant role. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top and bottom housings work together to create a sharper and crisper sound when typing, while the CAP Anniversary's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing for a more resonant sound and aesthetics suitable for RGB lighting. In terms of performance, users may need to decide between the sharper feel and sound of the Aliaz or the deeper tone of the CAP Anniversary based on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in both regards. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Aliaz switch better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the CAP Anniversary switch is more medium-heavy and may be preferred by those who like a slightly lighter touch. Both switches provide a good balance between actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel distance from top to bottom. This similarity ensures that both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. So in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they both offer the same amount of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, which is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch doesn't have a specific sound descriptor provided, but it is likely to produce a standard sound typical of linear switches. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is described as offering a silky and polished typing experience, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is characterized as both snappy and creamy, meaning it offers a responsive typing feel with a smooth and buttery sensation, likely due to factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch construction. Additionally, both switches are noted to have a polished finish, enhancing the typing experience with sleekness and minimal resistance.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter switch with a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and responsive typing experience with a creamy sensation and enhanced smoothness, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be a great option. Both switches offer a polished finish for a refined typing feel, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you need a quiet option for a more professional setting like an office, the Aliaz with its medium-heavy weight and muted sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and responsiveness in your typing experience, the CAP Anniversary with its novel CAP structure and snappy, creamy feel may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a substantial keystroke feel and quiet operation or a smooth, responsive typing experience.
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