Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Dream both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is heralded for its innovative CAP structure, which results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to aerodynamic principles and a hollowed-out stem post. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream stands out for its affordable price point and light linear feel, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts. While the CAP Anniversary is praised for its snappy and creamy feel, the Dream is known for being easy-to-press and clacky. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Dream feature top housings made of polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through easily. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing material.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the CAP Anniversary and the Dream are made of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Both switches will offer a unique typing experience with the nylon bottom housing material, enhancing the overall sound quality and feel of the switches.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of a switch. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches adds an extra layer of complexity to the typing experience, providing a diverse range of tactile and auditory sensations for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is clear that there are some significant differences between the two. The CAP Anniversary has a actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the Dream offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. Overall, the CAP Anniversary is the heavier option, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, whereas the Dream is the lighter option, perfect for longer typing sessions or intense gaming marathons. Both switches offer a different typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and Dareu Dream linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer consistent and reliable keypress feedback, ensuring a smooth typing experience. While other factors such as actuation force and sound levels may differ between the two switches, their travel distance remains the same. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the Dream linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and 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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 is known for providing a quiet typing experience due to its unique design that reduces friction and excess air resulting in a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as producing a clacky sound which is sharp and snappy. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary switch is lauded for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering responsiveness and smoothness. Additionally, the switch is noted for its polished finish, providing a refined and sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switch is characterized as easy-to-press with gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable. Its mild qualities offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Dream linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary provides a quiet and smooth typing experience with snappy and creamy characteristics, the Dareu Dream switch offers a clacky sound with an easy-to-press and mild feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, and users can expect quality performance and durability from either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, you should consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light and affordable linear switch with a gentle key press and lower actuation force, the Dareu Dream switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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