Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Avocado mechanical keyboard switch is renowned for its refreshing tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump and buttery downstroke that typists can appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. While the Avocado switch leans towards being accented and sharp, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as creamy and polished. Choosing between these two switches will largely depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile experience or prioritize smoothness and stability. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron CAP Anniversary, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for added aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, the Avocado's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the CAP Anniversary also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a balance of sound qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron CAP Anniversary have differing materials for their bottom housings, both switches offer a consistent experience with their polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. However, the differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches provide unique sound qualities, with the nylon bottom housing of both switches offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches, however, have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them overall medium-heavy in terms of force required for typing. The Avocado switch may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the CAP Anniversary switch offers a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a similar typing experience when it comes to bottoming out, so users can expect similar results in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the CAP Anniversary's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, with the Avocado providing a tactile bump and the CAP Anniversary offering a smooth linear action. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific user's typing style and needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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 Avocado switches present a mild, neutral sound signature that complements the tactile typing experience they offer. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switches provide an unspecified sound characteristic, which could potentially vary based on the other components in your setup such as the keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Avocado switches are praised for their accented tactility, providing a medium level of tactile feedback that is not too sharp or overwhelming. This results in an invigorating and sharp typing sensation that is complemented by a snappy and responsive feel. Conversely, the CAP Anniversary switches are described as snappy and creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and minimal wobble.
Overall, both the BSUN Avocado tactile switches and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Avocado switches focus on delivering a pronounced tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the CAP Anniversary switches prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with a creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness in your typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as your keyboard setup and personal preferences when choosing between these two options.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a satisfying and tactile typing experience with a pronounced feedback without being overwhelming, then the Bsun Avocado switch is the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance and minimal wobble, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch would be a better choice. Consider your preferences for tactility and smoothness when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both the Bsun Avocado and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches offer unique typing experiences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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