Kailh Berry vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, a few key differences stand out. The Berry switch is favored for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, chalk-like texture, and deep sound profile, while the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its novel CAP structure that results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes. The CAP Anniversary switch features a unique stem design with aerodynamic principles, tiny holes for air release, and an enlarged, hollowed-out stem post for stability and minimal wobble. Both switches offer their own advantages - the Berry for its textured, low-pitched, bassy feel, and the CAP Anniversary for its snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
The Kailh Berry and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, the differences in their bottom housings will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Both the Kailh Berry and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches utilize nylon bottom housings, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing. This bottom housing material complements the sharp and clear sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing, balancing out the overall sound profile of the switches.
The split between the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Berry and Gateron CAP Anniversary switches allows for a unique typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are felt in different aspects of typing - the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings contribute to distinct typing experiences, catering to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, there are some distinct differences. The Berry has an actuation force of None grams, while the CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Berry at 70 grams and the CAP Anniversary at 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the CAP Anniversary may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Berry's higher bottom out force might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Berry being on the slightly shorter end and the CAP Anniversary being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Berry switch for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the CAP Anniversary switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch is most often described as having a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch's sound profile remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Berry switch in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, offering a noticeable friction when pressed which may be preferred by some users for the tactile feedback it provides. Conversely, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is often described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a super responsive typing experience with smooth and buttery keystrokes that effortlessly melt into each keypress. This difference in feel between the two switches highlights the importance of personal preference when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switch is characterized by its low-pitched and bassy sound profile along with a textured typing experience, the CAP Anniversary switch boasts a novel CAP structure that results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes and a snappy, creamy, and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If similar results are desired, opt for the Berry for a more textured sound and feel, or the CAP Anniversary for a smoother and more responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a springy feel, deep sound profile, and textured key presses, then the Kailh Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth keystrokes, minimal wobble, and snappy, creamy, or polished feel, then the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch could be more suitable. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired key feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
