Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) stand out as two noteworthy linear options, each offering distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure, which not only ensures exceptionally smooth keystrokes but also enhances overall typing stability through its unique aerodynamic stem design. This switch is favored by those who appreciate a snappy, creamy, and polished feel while typing, making it ideal for users seeking a refined and fluid experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g, coupled with a bright and resonant sound that delivers an engaging tactile sensation with every keystroke. The bouncy feeling of the Lotus switches appeals to users who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive typing experience. While both switches cater to linear preferences, the CAP Anniversary leans toward a smooth and stable feel, whereas the Lotus (Heavy) prioritizes energy and auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your unique typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) exhibit distinct contrasts in their top housing materials, leading to different auditory experiences when typing. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties. This rigidity allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a more resonant and clear typing experience. Such characteristics make it particularly well-suited for situations where RGB lighting is used, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal. In stark contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, which is significantly softer and more absorbent. This softness contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, yielding a more muted typing experience that can be pleasing for users seeking a less harsh auditory effect.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the CAP Anniversary and the Lotus (Heavy) feature nylon materials. This similarity translates to a more consistent auditory quality when typing, as both switches can produce a deeper and fuller sound profile from the bottom housing. Nylon's sound-absorbing properties help to soften the overall typing noise, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while the top housings of each switch lead to contrasting sound profiles, the uniformity of the nylon bottom housing provides a cohesive experience during use, combining elements from both switches for a sound that balances clarity and depth.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials of the CAP Anniversary and the Lotus (Heavy) will influence how the switches sound during nearly every keystroke. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top generates a more pronounced sound when the keys are released, while the Lotus (Heavy)'s nylon top lends itself to a sound that is more subdued. However, given both switches share nylon for their bottom housing, the durability and sound characteristics inherent to nylon ensure that the overall typing experience remains rich and pleasing. Thus, users can expect a favorable blend of auditory characteristics, regardless of the specific switch they choose, owing to the nylon component that both switches rely on.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams but a lower bottom out force of 62.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. This means that the CAP Anniversary requires less force to initiate a keystroke, resulting in a lighter typing experience ideal for extended use, while the Lotus (Heavy) offers a firmer press before activation, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel. Overall, for users prioritizing lighter switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is the better choice, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) may appeal to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The CAP Anniversary switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option and aligning with the more traditional key feel that many users favor. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which caters to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, often favored by gamers for quicker actuation. While both switches serve their unique purposes, the CAP Anniversary may provide a more substantial and hearty depth, whereas the Lotus offers a snappier feel that some may find too abrupt. Ultimately, your preference for a longer or shorter travel distance will dictate which switch is best suited for your typing style.
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 Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches provide a somewhat muted, yet pleasing auditory experience, primarily due to their design which minimizes resonance and enhances acoustic dampening. The sound profile is generally aimed at a more refined, less intrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches offer a bright and resonant sound that gives each keystroke a distinct, lively character. This difference in sound can significantly affect the typing experience, with the CAP switches catering to those who prefer a more subdued sound profile, while the Lotus switches are ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced aural feedback with every keystroke.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switches excel with their snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics. The snappy responsiveness offers a lively typing sensation, while the creamy aspect ensures that the keystrokes glide smoothly, making for an effortless typing journey. The polished finish further enhances the sleekness in travel, reducing friction for a luxurious touch. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) also promises an engaging typing experience but focuses more on providing a super bouncy sensation thanks to its weight of 62.5g. This combination could result in a very tactile and dynamic experience, although the specific feel descriptors such as snappy, creamy, or polished aren’t mentioned for the Lotus switches.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches aim to deliver impressive typing experiences, they appeal to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary's sound is softer and more refined, complemented by a smooth and responsive feel that allows for peaceful, efficient typing. In contrast, the Lotus switches provide a vibrant sound and a distinct sense of bounce, enticing users who appreciate auditory feedback and a more dynamic feel. Therefore, selecting between these two options ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as they each excel in their unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a smooth and polished typing experience where every keystroke feels responsive and buttery, the CAP Anniversary is an excellent choice, especially with its unique design that minimizes wobble and enhances stability. This switch will appeal to users who appreciate a snappy and creamy feel, making it highly suitable for both gaming and long typing sessions, where every action feels alive and fluid under your fingers. On the other hand, if you desire a medium-weight switch with a bouncy responsiveness and a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) may be the better option. Its slightly lower actuation force offers a satisfying pop with every keypress, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile experience while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing habits and the auditory sensations you find pleasing. So take the time to consider what aspects matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard experience before making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
