Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Jupiter Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Jupiter Red both offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its innovative CAP structure, which delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes through an aerodynamic stem design that minimizes resistance and enhances overall stability. Its characteristics of being 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' make it an attractive option for those seeking a refined typing feel with reduced wobble. In contrast, the Jupiter Red focuses on providing a seamless, uninterrupted typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation thanks to its single-stage spring. Its 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral' classification ensures consistent feedback and soft backlighting, appealing to users who appreciate a smooth and balanced keystroke without any interruptions. Both switches offer distinct yet complementary features that cater to different typing styles, making the choice largely subjective. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gateron Jupiter Red switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both models. This similarity in material results in a comparable auditory experience, especially for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate amplifies clarity, enhancing the resonance of the sound when a key is released. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, making both switches attractive choices for users looking to illuminate their keyboards while still enjoying a vibrant sound profile.

While the top housings of both switches are identical in material, they diverge in their bottom housings. The CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red also uses a nylon bottom housing, which means both switches will share similar characteristics in their bottom-out sound and overall feel. Here, the softer nature of nylon will counterbalance the more resonant qualities of polycarbonate, giving users a well-rounded auditory experience.

This blend of materials means that while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jupiter Red switches share an important commonality in their top housing, they both benefit from the characteristic sound dampening qualities of nylon in their bottom housings. Consequently, while users can expect a consistent high-pitched sound profile when releasing a key, the overall typing experience will feel fuller and a bit warmer due to the absorption attributes of the nylon bottom. Users will enjoy an appealing mix of both sound clarity and richness, showcasing how contrasting materials can work in synergy to offer a well-rounded typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, notable differences emerge regarding their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP Anniversary requires an actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium weight category. This means that users seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the CAP Anniversary due to its heavier push feel, while those who favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming might opt for the Jupiter Red. Overall, the CAP Anniversary is the heavier option, while the Jupiter Red is lighter, providing distinct experiences based on user preference.

Travel distance

The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users will experience comparable actuation depths when pressing down on either switch. As a result, both switches will deliver uniform feedback and responsiveness, making them suitable for users who prefer a consistent keystroke experience. Given that both switches have identical travel distances, they share an important characteristic that can enhance typing or gaming performance without favoring one over the other in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is notably smooth due to its design, although specific sound characteristics aren't explicitly attributed to it. However, the switch's smooth keystrokes can suggest a refined acoustic profile that may lean towards a quieter operation. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This neutrality makes it versatile for various environments, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. The moderate actuation force and sound make it suitable for both home and work settings, ensuring it won’t disturb your surroundings overly much.

When comparing the feel of these two switches, the CAP Anniversary excels with its notably snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics. Users can expect a responsive and lively typing experience that glides effortlessly due to its refined surface. This combination of qualities provides an engaging sensation with minimal wobble during use. The Jupiter Red also boasts polished and creamy traits, offering a similar level of smoothness and refinement. Additionally, the Jupiter Red's feel incorporates a silky touch alongside a mild nature, suggesting that it provides a gentle typing experience that is accommodating for longer typing sessions, appealing to a broad audience.

Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches offer exceptional smoothness and a refined typing experience, making them attractive options for any mechanical keyboard enthusiast. The CAP Anniversary is ideal for those who appreciate a more responsive and lively feel, while the Jupiter Red caters to those who prefer a balanced, neutral sound and a gentle typing experience. If you're looking for a well-rounded switch, either will deliver satisfaction, but your personal preference for sensations and sound will guide you towards your ideal choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, your personal preferences, typing style, and intended use will greatly influence your choice. If you gravitate towards a heavier feel with a snappy and smooth response, along with a typing experience characterized by minimal wobble and enhanced stability, then the CAP Anniversary is likely your best bet. Its 65-gram bottom-out force ensures a more pronounced feedback, making it suitable for those who appreciate a solid keystroke during both long typing sessions and intense gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly lighter actuation with an even and creamy experience, the Jupiter Red, with its 60-gram force, might be more to your liking. This switch excels in providing a polished and silky touch, making it ideal for a variety of applications, whether you're typing up documents or navigating games. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value tactile feedback and a more deliberate typing feel or a smoother, quieter operation with a touch of elegance.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more