Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to the novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, providing a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly stands out for its medium 50g actuation force and distinctive sound signature, offering a balance of chirpy and clacky elements for a unique typing experience categorized as chirpy, clacky, and neutral. While both switches have their own merits, deciding between them 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
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
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 Holly switches feature polycarbonate top housings, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to users. The polycarbonate material used in both switches is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
In contrast, the two switches differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the CAP Anniversary featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Holly utilizing a nylon bottom housing as well. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings typically results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the CAP Anniversary potentially offering a softer bottom-out sound compared to the Holly.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Holly switches ensures a well-balanced sound profile for users. While the top housings impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housings play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the CAP Anniversary potentially offering a sharper sound profile when releasing a key compared to the Holly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The CAP Anniversary has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Holly has an actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The CAP Anniversary is therefore the heavier option of the two, offering a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. On the other hand, the Holly may provide a lighter typing experience due to the lack of information regarding its bottom out force. Both switches offer a tactile feel, with the only known difference being the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and keypress weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch are both 4 mm. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of key travel distance. Users can expect consistent feedback and keypress depth when using either switch. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance making them suitable choices for users who prefer a consistent typing experience.
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 Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly 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 Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a quiet and smooth typing experience due to its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch provides a distinctive sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users seeking a balanced and unique auditory experience. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary linear switch is said to offer a snappy and stable typing experience, thanks to its smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble. In contrast, information on the tactile feel of the Dareu Holly switch is not provided. It is important to note that key switch feel is a subjective matter and can greatly impact typing comfort and efficiency.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, users can expect a smooth and stable typing experience with the CAP Anniversary, accompanied by a quiet sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinctive auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prioritize smoothness and stability in your keystrokes, the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinctive sound signature with a balanced feel, the Holly switch with its chirpy and clacky elements might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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