Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Jelly present two distinct options for enthusiasts seeking a premium typing experience, despite both being classified as linear switches. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure, which delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its aerodynamic design that incorporates tiny holes to release excess air, reducing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. Its specialized stem promotes stability and minimal wobble, resulting in a typing feel that is often described as snappy, creamy, and polished. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switches are known for their deep, thocky sound signature, which offers a satisfying auditory feedback with every keystroke. With a lightweight 42g actuation force and superior factory lubrication, Jelly switches provide an incredibly smooth experience, making them ideal for those who enjoy a quieter yet tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages: the CAP Anniversary focuses on a refined typing experience with stability and smoothness, while the Jelly caters to users seeking a soft touch paired with an enjoyable sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Jelly, the differences in their top housings set the tone for their unique sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. This quality enhances resonance and clarity, which can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more vibrant auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better diffusion of RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic brightness to keyboards designed for visual flair. In contrast, the HMX Jelly's top housing is constructed from nylon, a softer material that absorbs sound and produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. This inherent softness leads to a more rounded auditory experience, providing a stark contrast to the sharper notes produced by polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in the top housings, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, notably changing the overall dynamics of their sound profiles. The nylon used in both the CAP Anniversary and HMX Jelly leads to excellence in sound absorption, contributing to a subdued sound when the key bottoms out. This commonality allows both switches to achieve a fuller and more inviting typing experience, regardless of the differences observed in their top housings. As a result, while one switch may achieve a heightened crispness at the top with polycarbonate, both benefit from the cushioning effect of nylon at the bottom, creating a harmonious balance between explosive and subdued sound qualities.
Ultimately, the interplay between the distinct top and bottom housing materials means that both switches can provide an array of auditory experiences. Users who prefer clarity and brightness may lean towards the CAP Anniversary, thanks to its polycarbonate top, while those who favor a more muffled and softer sound may find the HMX Jelly more appealing. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches ultimately cater to a diverse range of preferences, allowing users to experience the best of each material’s qualities in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The CAP Anniversary switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switch is considerably lighter, featuring an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch will likely find the Jelly more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as its lower force demand facilitates less strain on the fingers. Conversely, those who enjoy a stronger push and a more substantive typing experience may gravitate towards the CAP Anniversary switch, given its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding feel and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, it is clear that they differ, with the CAP Anniversary offering a longer travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the HMX Jelly has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The traditional travel distance is typically 4.0 mm, making the CAP Anniversary align closely with this standard, while the Jelly’s 3.8 mm is indicative of a more modern trend toward shorter travel distances, often favored by gamers for increased responsiveness. Those who enjoy the solid feel of a deeper press may prefer the CAP Anniversary, as its longer travel offers a more substantial actuation. In contrast, if quick response is paramount for your typing or gaming experience, the Jelly switch’s shorter distance may be more beneficial. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for travel distance and the type of feedback one enjoys while typing or gaming.
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 HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 switch is known for its quiet operation, which provides a subtle auditory feedback that can be pleasant in quieter environments. Its sound profile may lean towards a soft thock but lacks the deep resonance emphasized in other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly switch is characterized by its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which many users find satisfying and full-bodied. This richer sound can make it an appealing choice for those who enjoy more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. However, it’s important to remember that the sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch stands out with its snappy, creamy, and polished qualities. The snappy response provides a lively typing experience, while the creamy texture allows for a smooth and buttery keystroke that enhances overall comfort. The polished finish ensures reduced friction, making typing feel even more effortless. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the HMX Jelly switch is not specified in the available details, leaving a gap in direct comparison. The Jelly's smoothness, attributed to excellent factory lube and its lightweight actuation force of 42g, may deliver a satisfying experience, but the distinct feel characteristics remain unknown.
In summary, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and HMX Jelly linear switches offer unique aspects that cater to different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary excels in delivering a quiet, silky typing experience with snappy feedback and smooth motion, while the Jelly is appreciated for its pronounced sound and potentially smooth performance. Those seeking a tranquil typing experience may gravitate toward the CAP switches, whereas users who enjoy a deeper, more resonant sound will likely favor the Jelly. Ultimately, individual preference regarding sound and feel will determine which switch aligns best with your typing style, but those who prioritize smoothness and responsiveness may find comparable satisfaction in both.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound signature. If you enjoy a more substantial and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy force of 65 grams, the CAP Anniversary is likely the right choice for you. Its exceptional smoothness, snappy response, and creamy feel, paired with its polished touch, make it ideal for both typists looking for precision and gamers who want that responsive edge. Additionally, its unique design ensures minimal wobble, enhancing your typing stability. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 48 grams, the HMX Jelly would be more suited to your style. Its low-pitched, thocky sound provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many find enjoyable, while its super smooth actuation and creamy switch feel make it a great option for long typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a robust tactile experience with the CAP Anniversary or a lightweight, acoustically pleasing experience with the Jelly, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences and environments. The key is to consider what elements are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
