Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Jerrzi Honey Bean
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Honey Bean, both of which are linear switches. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its innovative CAP structure, offering exceptionally smooth keystrokes and reduced resistance thanks to aerodynamic principles and a unique stem design. On the other hand, the Honey Bean switches are known for their light and linear action, accompanied by silent operation, making them ideal for environments where noise reduction is paramount. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Honey Bean is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', and 'Muted'. 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
42g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches provide contrasting sound profiles due to their different materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a more defined typing experience. In comparison, the POM top housing of the Honey Bean produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a more subdued typing experience. However, both materials are known for their pleasing sound profiles, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the relatively more muted sound of the POM bottom housing of the Honey Bean. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM material. Despite this difference, both materials offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Honey Bean switches may differ in sound profile, they both deliver a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a higher actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch which has an actuation force of 42 grams, making the Honey Bean lighter in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires 65 grams to fully press the key, while the Honey Bean's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Honey Bean for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the CAP Anniversary switch. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances but offer a slightly different typing experience. For those seeking a faster response time and more immediate feedback, the Honey Bean switch with its shorter travel distance may be preferred. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper key press and a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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 producing a unique sound, while the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch is recognized for its muted quality, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. The muted sound of the Honey Bean switch is ideal for shared environments where noise reduction is important, whereas the sound of the CAP Anniversary switch may offer a different auditory experience based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate while providing a light and comfortable typing feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique qualities, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on responsiveness and smoothness, while the Honey Bean prioritizes lightness and ease of use.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel of the CAP Anniversary and Jerrzi Honey Bean switches, it is clear that they offer distinct subjective qualities to cater to different preferences. While the CAP Anniversary may provide a snappier and more polished typing experience with its unique design features, the Jerrzi Honey Bean emphasizes a softer and lighter typing feel that is gentle on the fingers. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, but rest assured that both switches promise a high-quality and satisfying typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light and silent typing experience, perfect for office or shared environments, the Honey Bean switch with its light and linear action would be more suitable. Whether you prefer a snappy and creamy feel or an easy-to-press and feathery sensation, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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