Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Bsun Cliff
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Bsun Cliff switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two contenders that stand out are the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Bsun Cliff, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch celebrated for its remarkably smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure that minimizes resistance and enhances stability. Users looking for a snappy, polished feel will appreciate the aerodynamic design and air-release features that contribute to an unparalleled typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff offers a tactile sensation with a medium level of feedback, appealing to those who enjoy pronounced actuation and a crisp sound signature without the clicky noise often associated with tactile switches. While the CAP Anniversary may be perfect for enthusiasts seeking a fluid typing experience, the Cliff could be ideal for users who thrive on the feedback that a tactile switch provides. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Bsun Cliff switches, one striking similarity emerges: both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, largely due to polycarbonate's stiff nature that enhances resonance and clarity in sound. The clear transparency of polycarbonate also makes it an excellent candidate for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it effectively allows light to pass through. As a result, users can expect similar acoustic characteristics and visual aesthetics from both switches, showcasing the benefits of polycarbonate when it comes to enhancing key switch performance.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material diverges between the CAP Anniversary and the Bsun Cliff. Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the rigid top housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This combination of nylon bottoms with polycarbonate tops demonstrates a well-rounded approach to sound design, where the qualities of each material are optimized. Consequently, users can anticipate a consistent experience in terms of responsiveness and sound between the two models, given their shared characteristics in bottom housing.
The interplay between the differing top and bottom housings in these switches has noteworthy implications for overall performance. Since the top housing significantly impacts the release sound while typing, and the bottom housing shapes the bottom-out sound and feel, users will encounter a blend of sound profiles when using either switch. The CAP Anniversary and Bsun Cliff switches, therefore, provide a nuanced acoustic experience that balances the crispness of polycarbonate with the richness of nylon, allowing for an engaging typing experience. Despite the similarity in materials used in their upper and lower sections, the combination of these elements will yield unique auditory feedback, enriching user interaction with both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch with the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Cliff switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a preferable option for those who enjoy a lighter touch. As a result, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch provides a more substantial typing experience, favored by users who appreciate a stronger push feel during use. Conversely, the Bsun Cliff’s lighter forces make it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it minimizes fatigue. Thus, if you are seeking a switch that offers a heavier tactile feedback, the CAP Anniversary is the better choice, while the Cliff is suited for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use in longer engagements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights their respective design philosophies: the CAP Anniversary offers a more traditional and deeper feel that many users enjoy for a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Cliff's shorter travel distance caters to those who prefer quicker key presses, typically favored by gamers for faster response times. Thus, the CAP Anniversary is the longer option between the two, while the Cliff is the shorter, providing a more abrupt feedback that may not suit everyone’s preferences. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a hearty depth, the CAP Anniversary is a preferable choice, while the Cliff is better suited for those wanting a snappy and responsive 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 Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a notably quiet profile, characterized by a muted but pleasant keystroke that lends itself well to both focused work and casual gaming without drawing attention. In contrast, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is recognized for its crisp sound signature, which can provide an audible feedback that many typists appreciate. The difference in their sound qualities suggests that while the CAP Anniversary can suit a more discreet environment, the Cliff is likely preferred in situations where feedback and acoustic cues enhance the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary offers a combination of snappy, creamy, and polished qualities, resulting in a typing experience that is both responsive and smooth. The innovative design of the CAP structure plays a significant role in providing a buttery and refined feel that enhances stability. On the other hand, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is distinguished by its medium tactility, which adds a noticeable bump during actuation without being overly pronounced. This makes the Cliff suitable for typists who enjoy tactile feedback as they type, while the CAP switches cater to those who prefer a more fluid and uninterrupted typing motion.
Overall, choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switches and the Bsun Cliff tactile switches boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary’s smooth and quiet performance contrasts with the Cliff’s tactile feedback and crisp sound. Ultimately, if you are leaning towards a seamless typing experience without much auditory feedback, the CAP Anniversary is likely the right choice. However, if you enjoy a bit of sound and tactile sensation during your typing sessions, then the Bsun Cliff switches may be better suited for you. Each switch brings its unique qualities to the table, ensuring that personal preference will play a decisive role in your selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Bsun Cliff tactile switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a more substantial typing feel and a highly smooth keystroke experience, the CAP Anniversary with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams could be the better option for you. Its unique design not only enhances stability but also minimizes wobble, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. In contrast, if you lean towards a brighter, tactile feedback with a lighter touch, the Bsun Cliff can cater to that need with its 45 grams of bottom-out force. This can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a crisper sound and a medium level of tactility, enriching your typing experience with a sense of responsiveness that can be great for both gaming and typing. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you want a smooth, immersive experience or a more tactile, responsive feel; both switches have their own unique benefits tailored to different preferences.
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