Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Bsun Dragon Fruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Bsun Dragon Fruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Bsun Dragon Fruit are two excellent options to consider. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its unique CAP structure that reduces resistance and enhances smoothness. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit is a tactile switch known for its sharp, definitive bottom-out and significant tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump with each press. The Dragon Fruit also provides a clacky sound signature for a lively typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Dragon Fruit is labeled as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Bsuns Dragon Fruit utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches, making them ideal for users looking for a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual appeal to the switches.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the CAP Anniversary and Dragon Fruit differ in material, with the CAP Anniversary using nylon and the Dragon Fruit also utilizing nylon. The use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the top housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may complement the sharper sound produced by the top housing. Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of both switches provides a balanced sound experience for users.
Since both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a similar sound profile and visual aesthetic when utilizing either the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the Bsuns Dragon Fruit with RGB lighting. However, the differences in the nylon bottom housings may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel when typing on the switches. The impact of each housing material on the overall sound and typing experience should be considered by users when selecting between the two switches, depending on their preferences for sound clarity and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch with the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch, it is evident that the Dragon Fruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 50 grams. Both switches, however, have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in this aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Dragon Fruit may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the CAP Anniversary's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The CAP Anniversary has a longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press with more feedback. On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit's shorter travel distance makes it ideal for gamers looking for quick and responsive keystrokes. Both switches offer different advantages based on their travel distance, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a deeper key press, go for the CAP Anniversary, but if you prefer a quicker response time, the Dragon Fruit may be the better option for you.
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 Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit for $3.83.
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 well-regarded for its quieter operation due to the novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design that reduce excess air and resistance, resulting in a smoother keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature that adds to the engaging and lively typing experience it provides.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is described as having a snappy and creamy typing experience, offering super responsive key presses with a smooth and buttery feel. In contrast, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch is characterized by its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback, providing a pronounced bump at each press that tactile enthusiasts enjoy for a more immersive typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, while the two switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch provide exceptional typing experiences tailored to different preferences. Whether you prefer a quiet and smooth keystroke like the CAP Anniversary or a lively and tactile feedback like the Dragon Fruit, choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style, ensuring that you'll get a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and defined tactile bump with a clacky sound signature, the Dragon Fruit switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your typing experience to feel and sound, so consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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