Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gateron Glory Yellow offer distinct yet attractive options for different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switches are widely recognized for their innovative design, featuring a unique CAP structure and a specialized stem that incorporates aerodynamic principles to provide exceptionally smooth keystrokes. This translates to a typing experience that feels snappy, creamy, and polished, making them an appealing choice for those who prioritize smoothness and stability in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches, while also offering a smooth keystroke, stand out as the heavier option in the Glory lineup. Their satisfying travel distance enhances the overall typing experience, making them ideal for users who enjoy a bit of added resistance. Both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, so while one may favor the refined smoothness of the CAP Anniversary, another might appreciate the solid feedback of the Glory Yellow. 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
50g
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches, a significant difference arises in the top housing. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This quality contributes to a clear and resonant sound, especially favorable for those who enjoy an RGB lighting setup, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced illumination effects. In contrast, the Glory Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, traditionally known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This resulting sound is attributable to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs vibrations more than harder materials, leading to a rounder and less pronounced acoustic output.
On the other hand, both the CAP Anniversary and the Glory Yellow switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which facilitates similar acoustic characteristics in this regard. Nylon's soft properties contribute to a warmer, more muted sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience by providing a cushioning effect when keys bottom out. While the bottom housing in both switches shares these sound-absorbing qualities, the differences in the top housing materials—polycarbonate for the CAP Anniversary and nylon for the Glory Yellow—will influence the overall sound signature of each switch during use. Thus, while the typing experience may feel similar when pressing the keys down due to the common nylon bottom, the return of sound when releasing the keys will differ significantly due to the contrasting materials in use.
Ultimately, the overall sound and feel experienced in these switches will be impacted by the interplay of the top and bottom housing materials. Users of the CAP Anniversary switch will enjoy a combination of bright, resonant sounds on release thanks to the polycarbonate, while Glory Yellow users will experience a warmer and softer sound characterized by its nylon top housing. Though both switches share a nylon bottom housing, revealing some commonality in dampening effects, the distinctions in their top housings underscore the variances in auditory feedback and tactile experiences. Thus, while similar in certain aspects, the varying top house materials will lead to different auditory profiles, highlighting the nuanced preferences that keyboard enthusiasts often seek in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, it's notable that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. This means that users will experience a similar initial resistance when pressing either switch, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a light typing experience for extended use, like in work or gaming scenarios. However, the bottom out force differs significantly between the two: the CAP Anniversary switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown. This suggests that users who enjoy a more substantial feel might lean towards the CAP Anniversary, as the heavier bottom out force provides more tactile feedback upon keypress termination. In contrast, the Glory Yellow might appeal to those who prefer a lighter switch feel overall, but without a defined bottom out force, its overall typing experience remains less clear.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they share the same key travel distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity implies that users will experience an identical feel in terms of how far down they need to press the keys on both switches, resulting in comparable typing or gaming experiences. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect consistency in that aspect, regardless of which switch they choose to use.
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 Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is not specified, leaving an element of mystery regarding its auditory feedback. The Glory Yellow switch is also not described in terms of sound, indicating that the acoustic characteristics of both switches remain unknown. It is important to remember that sound can vary significantly depending on external factors such as the keyboard frame, plate materials, and keycap choice, so even if both switches are designed to offer similar experiences, their sounds may differ when placed in different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary stands out with several positive descriptors. It is characterized as snappy, providing a rapid and responsive typing experience. Additionally, it can be described as creamy, offering a smooth, buttery sensation that allows users to glide effortlessly across the keys. The polished finish of the CAP Anniversary switch further contributes to its refined typing experience by ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, while specific descriptors for the feel of the Glory Yellow switch are not provided, it is noted that this switch delivers a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, suggesting a generally satisfying tactile experience. However, without specific adjectives, it is harder to draw a direct comparison.
In summary, both the CAP Anniversary and Glory Yellow linear switches promise an engaging typing experience, though they differ slightly in the feel, with the CAP Anniversary being particularly notable for its snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics. The sound quality of both switches remains undefined and may depend heavily on the keyboard construction and components used. For newcomers, choosing between the two may ultimately come down to personal preference, as both switches are designed to provide a smooth experience, with the added benefit of the CAP Anniversary's unique features enhancing its tactile feedback. If sound is a major consideration, experimenting with different setups may help reveal which switch better satisfies the auditory aspects of your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy linear switch with a notable tactile feedback, the CAP Anniversary is an excellent choice. Its unique design featuring a novel CAP structure and an aerodynamic stem ensures a smooth, stable, and responsive experience that feels snappy and polished under your fingers. This switch is ideal for individuals who prioritize a refined typing sensation and might value a bit more heft in their keystrokes, making it suitable for both gaming and prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a linear switch that emphasizes a pleasing travel distance with a generally smoother keystroke, the Glory Yellow could be your go-to option. Although the exact bottom-out force is unknown, this switch is recognized for its enjoyable performance and comfort during extended use. If you appreciate the feeling of gliding through your keypresses without substantial resistance, the Glory Yellow may cater more to your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, so consider your typing habits and style to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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