Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Dolphin
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Dolphin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary, a linear switch, and the Durock Dolphin, also a linear switch, some distinct differences and similarities emerge. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes attributed to its unique CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin stands out for its silent operation, making it a great choice for quieter environments. The CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the Dolphin is labeled as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Low-pitched'. If you prioritize smoothness and stability in your typing experience, the CAP Anniversary may be the way to go, whereas if a quiet workspace is essential to you and you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin could be the better option. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Dolphin both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound production, making it a preferred choice for switches with clear housings for RGB lighting purposes. Both switches are likely to deliver similar results in terms of sound due to their shared polycarbonate top housing composition.
However, a notable point of difference lies in the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dolphin's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. This contrast in bottom housing materials may lead to a variance in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
In summary, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Dolphin share similar polycarbonate top housings with comparable sound profiles, their differing bottom housing materials introduce variations in sound characteristics and typing feedback. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the Dolphin's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a crisper and more resonant typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Dolphin's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the CAP Anniversary being heavier at 65 grams compared to the Dolphin's 62 grams. The CAP Anniversary offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Dolphin provides a medium level of force. Those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Dolphin for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who like a more substantial push feel may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dolphin being slightly shorter than the CAP Anniversary. For those looking for a faster response time, the Dolphin may be the preferred option due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the CAP Anniversary with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness of the keypress.
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 Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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 and the Durock Dolphin switches offer distinct experiences. The CAP Anniversary switch is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, resulting in a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional switches. On the other hand, the Durock Dolphin switch is specifically designed to be muted and low-pitched, minimizing noise levels for a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the CAP Anniversary and Dolphin switches provide a premium typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a super responsive and smooth keystroke with reduced friction and minimal wobble. Similarly, the Dolphin switch is also polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel while providing a bit more resistance with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62g.
Overall, while the sound qualities of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Dolphin switches differ, both switches offer a premium typing experience with smooth keystrokes, reduced friction, and minimal wobble. If you prefer a quieter keyboard, the Durock Dolphin switch would be ideal for office environments. However, if you prioritize a super responsive and smooth typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch would be the perfect choice. Ultimately, your preference would depend on your individual typing style and environment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Dolphin linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise levels. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes with stability and minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch with its unique aerodynamic design may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a silent switch for a quiet workspace or office setting, the Durock Dolphin switch offers a satisfying press with a muted and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific typing preferences and environment needs.
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