Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Cheese stand out as exceptional linear options for users seeking a smooth typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its unique CAP structure, resulting in remarkably smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese offers an unparalleled level of smoothness and an ultra-light typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound signature. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the HMX Cheese lacks specific categorization. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and overall 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Cheese switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the CAP Anniversary's top housing is more ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cheese's nylon top housing offers a classic switch feel with a rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the CAP Anniversary and the Cheese use nylon material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softness absorbs sound to create a duller and rounder tone. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. With both switches using nylon bottom housing, users can expect a consistent sound experience across the board.
Overall, while the CAP Anniversary and the HMX Cheese switches have different top housing materials, they share a similar bottom housing material. This means that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, with the top housing material influencing the sound when pressing and releasing a key. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, while the Cheese's nylon top housing offers a classic feel with a deeper tone. In terms of bottom housing, both switches deliver a consistent sound experience thanks to the nylon material used.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the HMX Cheese linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it becomes evident that the CAP Anniversary is the heavier of the two. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Cheese offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the CAP Anniversary, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the HMX Cheese. The weight of a switch is an essential factor to consider, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance during extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, we can see that the CAP Anniversary has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Cheese has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Cheese has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The 4.0mm distance of the Anniversary is more traditional, providing a deeper press, while the 3.5mm distance of the Cheese is shallower, offering a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the Cheese for its faster response, while those who enjoy a more hearty press may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences among users.
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 HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 CAP Anniversary switch is known for providing a solid and satisfying typing experience with a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for both quiet and shared workspaces. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch offers a unique auditory experience with a more pronounced clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a bit of noise while typing. However, it's essential to consider that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is often described as having a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. These qualities indicate that the switch is highly responsive, smooth, and refined, resulting in a tactile sensation that is both satisfying and comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch's specific feel characteristics are not specified in the provided information.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the CAP Anniversary switch focuses on providing a smooth and stable typing experience with moderate sound levels, the HMX Cheese switch stands out for its ultra-lightweight design and more pronounced sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, it's important to note that both switches are designed to deliver high-quality performance and can provide similar results in terms of durability and overall user satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary switch with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-light switch with a light bottom out force and a satisfying clacky sound signature, the HMX Cheese switch with its unparalleled smoothness and crisp typing experience might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and switch weight. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and enjoy a customized typing experience.
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