Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Deep Navy
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Deep Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Deep Navy offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary, known for its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and resistance, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize a snappy and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Deep Navy, with its full nylon construction and unique Ly stem, delivers a rich sound profile and silky smoothness with each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback alongside a fluid typing experience. While both switches share the common trait of being linear, they each bring unique characteristics to the table, enhancing the overall typing experience in different ways. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Deep Navy switches differ notably in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates clearly. This characteristic makes it particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups, as the clarity of the housing can enhance the visual effects of the lighting. In contrast, the HMX Deep Navy utilizes a nylon top housing that provides a softer, more muted sound profile. Nylon absorbs sound more effectively due to its softer composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, which can be preferable for users seeking a quieter typing sound.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, aligning them closer in terms of overall sound quality but creating different experiences based on the top housing material. The nylon bottom in both switches promotes a deeper resonance, enriching the sound profile and contributing to a more rounded typing feel. Since the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the key, both switches will deliver a satisfying and rich experience due to this shared nylon material. This means that while the CAP Anniversary may echo higher notes when the key is released, its overall depth will be supported by the nylon's sound absorption, much like the Deep Navy.
Ultimately, the simultaneous use of different housing materials results in combined sound profiles that uniquely characterize each switch. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top provides a bright and crisp sound during release, while the nylon bottom offers a consistent and deep typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Deep Navy relies on the nylon characteristics for both top and bottom, leading to a more uniform yet rounded sound throughout its use. While the CAP Anniversary might enhance clarity due to its polycarbonate upper, the overall typing experience can be comparable in fullness and richness due to the shared nylon bottoms that help balance the final auditory outcome.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Deep Navy linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it preferable for those who favor a lighter touch, especially beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. As a result, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is heavier overall, providing a more substantial feel that some typists may prefer for a deeper engagement. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference, with the CAP Anniversary catering to those who appreciate a stronger push, while the Deep Navy appeals to users seeking a gentler keystroke experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Deep Navy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the CAP Anniversary provides a more traditional and heartfelt depth when pressed, which can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Deep Navy, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, caters to gamers and individuals who prefer quicker response times, offering a more immediate tactile response. Therefore, individuals who prioritize a deeper press might gravitate toward the CAP Anniversary, while those seeking rapid activation may prefer the shorter travel of the Deep Navy. Overall, the CAP Anniversary is the longer travel switch, providing a deeper experience, whereas the Deep Navy is designed for speed with its shorter travel distance.
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 Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 has not been explicitly described, making it difficult to provide a specific comparison. However, the Deep Navy switch is known for a rich and sharp sound profile, attributed to its full nylon construction. This construction contributes to a sound that can be characterized as both distinct and engaging, which many enthusiasts appreciate. Ultimately, both switches will produce differing acoustic qualities, and the overall sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is noted for its snappy, creamy, and polished qualities. These descriptors highlight an engaging typing experience characterized by responsiveness, buttery smoothness, and refined key travel. The unique design features—such as the aerodynamic stem and enhanced stability—further enhance this feel. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Deep Navy switch is not provided, leaving a gap in its comparative evaluation. However, you can expect a smooth experience with this switch as well, particularly given its high-quality construction.
In conclusion, while the CAP Anniversary switch is celebrated for its superior tactile feedback and feel, the Deep Navy switch earns praise for its striking sound. The absence of sound descriptors for the CAP Anniversary makes it challenging to compare directly in that regard. However, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying typing experiences, albeit in distinct ways that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize sound aesthetics or the tactile sensation of your keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Deep Navy linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you appreciate a medium-heavy tactile feedback and desire exceptionally smooth keystrokes, the CAP Anniversary would be a fantastic option for you. Its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design foster not only a responsive and snappy typing experience but also a buttery smoothness that feels satisfying with every keystroke. Conversely, if you lean towards a lighter switch that offers a delightful auditory experience combined with a silky smooth feel, the Deep Navy is your go-to choice. With its full nylon construction and refined Ly stem, it provides an immersive and rich sound profile alongside a light actuation force that can make prolonged typing sessions feel effortless. In essence, consider the CAP Anniversary for a more robust typing feedback and an exhilarating typing experience, while the Deep Navy is ideal for those who favor subtlety and ease in their keystrokes. Balancing these factors will guide you to the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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