Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, you will find distinct features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to the novel CAP structure that reduces resistance and enhances smoothness. On the other hand, the CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, providing a richer, deeper sound signature and a bouncy typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the CM switch boasts categories like 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', and more. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CM both use nylon for their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. However, the CAP Anniversary stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in top housing material leads to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the CM's nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Overall, the CAP Anniversary's housing materials result in a more crisp and distinctive typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deep and full sound profile, the choice of top housing material sets the Gateron CAP Anniversary apart from the Gateron CM. The combination of polycarbonate in the top housing of the CAP Anniversary enhances the overall sound profile, providing a more distinct and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the CM's nylon top housing absorbs sound and creates a softer, more muted sound profile. This difference highlights how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the auditory feedback and overall feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron CM play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound, the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the CM's nylon top housing absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. These differences showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall performance and feel of mechanical keyboard switches, allowing users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the CM's 55 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the CAP Anniversary requires a heavier force of 65 grams, whereas the CM is slightly lighter at 63.5 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces may result in a slightly different typing feel for users. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the CAP Anniversary, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might lean towards the CM for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, we can see that the CAP Anniversary has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, the CAP Anniversary provides a slightly deeper keypress experience compared to the CM. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the CM, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CAP Anniversary switch may have a more muted or understated sound profile compared to the CM switch, which is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched tones. The CM switch's full nylon housing and factory lube job contribute to a richer and deeper sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience during typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard structure and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. The unique CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem provide a smooth and stable keystroke, adding a touch of elegance to each press. On the other hand, the CM switch offers a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless feel, thanks to its factory lube job and materials used in manufacturing. Typing on the CM switch can feel like effortlessly gliding across the keys, with a bouncy sensation due to the lengthened, dual-staged spring.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of sound and feel may differ between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, both switches promise a premium typing experience. Whether you prefer a smoother and more stable keystroke with the CAP Anniversary or a richer and deeper sound signature with the CM, you can expect comparable results in terms of premium quality and performance from these Gateron switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, consider the unique features and characteristics of each. Opt for the CAP Anniversary if you value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, thanks to the novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, if you prefer a richer sound signature and a bouncy typing experience, the CM with its full nylon housing and lengthened, dual-staged spring may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or a deeper sound profile and bouncy feel in your typing experience.
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