Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh BCP both offer unique experiences, appealing to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The CAP Anniversary switches are celebrated for their innovative CAP structure that promotes exceedingly smooth keystrokes. This design not only incorporates aerodynamic principles but also features specially designed holes to alleviate air pressure, resulting in reduced resistance and enhanced smoothness. With a focus on stability and minimal wobble, these switches deliver a typing experience that feels snappy, creamy, and polished. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switches take a fresh approach to the beloved Black Cherry Pie design, offering a custom-molded feel that eliminates the hassle of disassembly. Users can expect a distinctly creamy, elastic, and bouncy typing sensation, combined with an engaging poppy and clacky sound profile that adds character to every keystroke. While the CAP Anniversary is ideal for those seeking a smooth, stable experience, the Kailh BCP will appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback alongside their tactile interaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's perfect for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh BCP switches, a notable contrast lies in their top housing compositions. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer structure that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for users who favor a more resonant typing experience, and its translucency enhances the aesthetics when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Kailh BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its softer properties that dampen sound and yield a fuller, deeper auditory experience. Thus, while both switches provide unique auditory profiles, the polycarbonate top of the CAP Anniversary stands out for its clarity and brightness, while the nylon top of the BCP promotes a rounder and more subdued sound.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, present a similarity that mediates the overall sound experience. Both the CAP Anniversary and the BCP incorporate nylon in their bottom housing, a material known for its sound-absorbing qualities that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality in bottom housing can lead to a comparable user experience regarding the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. The nylon’s ability to absorb sound will provide a level of consistency in the lower frequencies, regardless of the distinct characteristics of the respective top housings.
Ultimately, when using these switches, the combination of differing top housings and shared bottom housings can lead to an intriguing interplay of sound and feel. The sharpness and resonance provided by the polycarbonate upper housing of the CAP Anniversary contrast with the subdued character of the nylon top in the BCP; however, both switches ensure that the deeper tones, influenced by the nylon bottom, remain prominent. This results in a distinct auditory experience depending on the switch chosen. Therefore, while the switches exhibit different upper housing materials that shape their sound profiles, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom contributes significantly to the overall experience, producing a balance of qualities from both materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we find both similarities and slight differences in their force characteristics. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 65 grams, while the BCP has a slightly heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a lower bottom-out force of 63.5 grams. This means that for actuation, the CAP Anniversary is the lighter option, requiring less force to trigger a keystroke, which may be more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the BCP being heavier in actuation force could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer that feel. In terms of bottom-out force, the CAP Anniversary requires a bit more force to press all the way down compared to the BCP, which could affect the overall typing experience, especially during intense gaming or long writing sessions. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch for longer use, the Gateron CAP Anniversary may be the better choice, while the Kailh BCP may appeal more to those who favor a firmer pressure.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, the Gateron switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh BCP offers a shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction indicates that the CAP Anniversary switch provides a more traditional, deeper feel that some users find satisfying for typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to those who prioritize quicker response times, which is particularly appealing for gamers seeking to enhance their gameplay efficiency. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference; if you lean towards a more responsive experience, the Kailh BCP would be the better option, whereas the Gateron CAP Anniversary would be ideal for those who appreciate the deeper, more tactile feedback associated with its longer 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is notably unique, contributing to a pleasant, subdued typing experience. While specific details on its acoustic qualities are not provided, the switch is designed to minimize any excess noise due to its innovative aerodynamic stem design. This provides a relatively quiet operation, making it suitable for a variety of environments. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch offers a more pronounced aural experience with its signature poppy and clacky sound profile. This characteristic adds an engaging element to typing, which many users find satisfying, especially in more casual or playful settings. Overall, while the CAP Anniversary caters to those seeking a quieter typing experience, the BCP resonates with those who enjoy an audible feedback during use.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switches are praised for their snappy responsiveness, creamy smoothness, and polished finish. These attributes combine to create a typing experience that feels lively and effortless, with minimal friction on key presses. The use of aerodynamics and a refined stem design further enhances the overall engagement with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switches bring a distinctly bouncy and elastic quality to the table, promising a delightful tactile experience. While the specific descriptors for the BCP are not given, the playfulness implied by its design suggests a comfortable and enjoyable feel, albeit perhaps with a different tactile engagement than the CAP Anniversary.
In summary, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Kailh BCP linear switches offer distinct and appealing attributes suited to different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth, quiet, and responsive experience, ideal for users who appreciate refinement and subtlety. Conversely, the Kailh BCP switches stand out for their vibrant auditory feedback and bouncy tactile sensation, catering to those who enjoy a more lively typing experience. While they differ in sound and feel, users can choose based on these preferences to achieve a typing experience that best suits their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, the decision largely hinges on your specific preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a highly smooth keystroke with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary is an excellent choice, offering a refined typing experience characterized by its snappy responsiveness and buttery feel. The CAP's unique design aids in delivering consistent performance, making it ideal for those who type extensively and value both comfort and stability. Conversely, if you’re looking for a switch that offers a fun and engaging typing experience with a signature clacky sound profile, the Kailh BCP might be the way to go. Its creamy, elastic feel and playful pop sound cater well to both casual typing and gaming scenarios, providing a lively interaction with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what feels best under your fingers; whether it’s the polished smoothness of the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the bouncy excitement of the Kailh BCP, you’re sure to enjoy the unique characteristics that both switches bring to the table.
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