Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to the innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, providing a snappy, creamy, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Lavender switch stands out for its smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, offering an easy-to-press key feel. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different typing styles and preferences. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Zuoce Lavender switches, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material used. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Lavender utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary is better suited for those looking for a more vibrant and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Lavender also uses a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both materials provide a unique and pleasing sound, with the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary offering a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Lavender.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Zuoce Lavender switches both offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, they differ in the specific tones they produce. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary elicits a fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Lavender contributes to a deeper sound profile. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing experience, either switch can offer a unique and enjoyable sound profile based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The CAP Anniversary requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light. The lighter actuation force of the Lavender switch may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods of time, while the heavier CAP Anniversary switch could be favored by users who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of key resistance.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option. The CAP Anniversary offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Lavender provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may lean towards the Lavender for its quicker response time, while those who prefer a more substantial press may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 smooth and quiet keystrokes, offering a satisfying typing experience without much noise. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as having a crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a distinct and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users may find the quiet smoothness of the CAP Anniversary preferable or the sharp clackiness of the Lavender more appealing.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and stable typing experience, thanks to its unique CAP structure designed for smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble. Additionally, users may find the Creamy and Polished qualities of the CAP Anniversary switch to offer a buttery smooth typing sensation with reduced friction. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as being easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. The Lavender switch offers a responsive and low-impact feel, making typing for extended periods of time a pleasant experience.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, the Lavender stands out with its crisp and clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and stable keystroke with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a crisp and clacky sound, the Lavender switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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