Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CJ both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the CJ provides a distinct experience with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. The CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the CJ is labeled as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own appeal and advantages, making it important to consider your personal typing preferences when choosing between them. 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
50g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CJ switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their composition. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a unique sound that is high-pitched yet not overly sharp, resulting in a satisfyingly clacky typing feel. While both switches provide a clear sound profile, the specific characteristics of the top housing material contribute to their individual auditory nuances.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder typing experience. On the other hand, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a unique sound profile on the deeper side, with a more muted tone compared to the CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing. The choice of bottom housing material greatly impacts the overall tactile and auditory feedback of the switch, enhancing the typing experience for users with different preferences.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and CJ switches vary in composition and resulting sound profiles, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to a premium typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials allows users to experience a combination of distinct sound characteristics when typing on these switches. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller typing experience, the choice between the CAP Anniversary and CJ switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of responsiveness. However, the CAP Anniversary has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the CJ's 60 grams, making it slightly more resistant to bottoming out completely. This difference in bottom out force may be more noticeable for users who prefer a firmer typing feel. Overall, the CAP Anniversary switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the CJ switch is slightly lighter, allowing for a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for typing feel and the desired level of resistance in a switch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches provide a consistent and tactile feedback experience to users. This means that whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the CJ linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Overall, the travel distance of both switches offers a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a linear switch option.
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 Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 CAP Anniversary linear switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and higher-pitched clacks, giving it a unique and distinctive acoustic signature. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps attached, so individual experiences may vary.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is often described as snappy and creamy, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a milder typing feel, making it more gentle and approachable to a wider range of users. Both switches are designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics in terms of feel.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gateron CJ linear switches have distinct sound and feel attributes, they are both high-quality options that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch excels in providing smooth keystrokes and stability, while the CJ switch offers a unique sound profile and a mild typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a premium typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and stability, the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch with higher-pitched clacks and an impossibly smooth push feel, the CJ would be the way to go. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a moderate bottom out force of 60 grams, the CJ would be suitable, while the CAP Anniversary with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams would provide a different typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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