Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Ink Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are key differences to consider. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes attributed to its unique CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. The CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the Ink Yellow is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own set of strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Ink Yellow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow provides a sleek and modern look.
On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. By combining different housing materials for the top and bottom, both switches are able to achieve a unique blend of sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Ink Yellow may differ in terms of their composition and sound profiles, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct qualities. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary creating a clear and resonant sound, or the INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow providing a clacky and high-pitched sound, keyboard enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of sound profiles to suit their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the CAP Anniversary requiring 65 grams and the Ink Yellow needing 67 grams. The CAP Anniversary switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch offers a slightly heavier feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between actuation force and bottom out force for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch. A 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is known for its neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user. This switch produces a moderate sound without being too loud or too quiet. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch remains unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches share the characteristic of having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy and creamy, offering a responsive and buttery typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Ink Yellow switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches are designed to reduce friction and ensure smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch focuses on providing an exceptionally smooth keystroke through its unique CAP structure, minimizing resistance and wobble for a stable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a shorter travel and a comfortable typing experience that falls between a laptop keyboard and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the sound profile of the CAP Anniversary switch remains unknown, both switches share a polished finish that results in a sleek and refined typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for typing smoothness, responsiveness, and sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke with minimal wobble and stable keypresses, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel and a typing experience reminiscent of a laptop keyboard with a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, the Ink Yellow could be more suitable. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, so the decision ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or a unique typing feel closer to a laptop keyboard. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs for the ultimate typing experience.
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