Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch with the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are clear distinctions to consider. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its unique aerodynamic stem design with tiny holes for air release, resulting in reduced resistance and enhanced smoothness. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a tactile typing experience with two-stage springs for strong returns and consistent feel. While the CAP Anniversary is known for its snappy and creamy feel, the Jupiter Banana offers a polished and high-pitched experience. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Jupiter Banana utilize polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to their stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches where RGB lighting is a key feature, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, these two switches would offer very similar results given their shared top housing material.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the CAP Anniversary and the Jupiter Banana are made of nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches utilizing nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this bottom housing material, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch is crucial. The nylon bottom housing of these switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound that complements the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Jupiter Banana allows for a well-rounded typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch ensures that each aspect of the sound profile is considered. The characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon come together to offer a harmonious balance of sharpness, clarity, depth, and fullness in the sound produced by these switches. Whether typing or releasing a key, the impact of both housing materials is evident in the overall typing experience provided by these switches.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch's 59 grams, making the CAP Anniversary easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the CAP Anniversary requires a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 69 grams. This means that while the Jupiter Banana may require a slightly heavier initial push, it ultimately offers a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing feel and performance, with the Jupiter Banana providing a slightly stronger push feel overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The CAP Anniversary has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana, which means it offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4 mm being more common. Gamers may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the CAP Anniversary for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its presumably smooth and quiet operation due to its aerodynamic design and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized as high-pitched and resonant, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Depending on your preference, the CAP Anniversary may offer a more subtle typing experience, while the Jupiter Banana provides a more distinct auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Jupiter Banana switches share similarities in terms of being described as polished and creamy. The CAP Anniversary switch offers a snappy and possibly creamy typing sensation, providing a smooth and refined finish and reducing friction during key travel. Similarly, the Jupiter Banana tactile switch is noted for its polished and creamy feel, offering a buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience with their refined and smooth characteristics.
In conclusion, even though the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch may differ in sound profiles, they both offer a polished and creamy feel for an enhanced typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch could provide a pleasant and responsive typing experience, ensuring that you achieve accurate and comfortable keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a strong return with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for, whether it be the smoothness of the CAP Anniversary or the tactile feedback of the Jupiter Banana.
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