Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Lunar Probe are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, making it snappy, creamy, and polished. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe features Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, providing a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, offering a variety of qualities to consider. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Lunar Probe utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic features related to RGB lighting, both the CAP Anniversary and Lunar Probe switches will provide similar results due to their shared top housing material.
On the other hand, the housing material for the bottom of the switches differs between the two models. The CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Lunar Probe also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys will be consistent across both switches due to the shared material.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ in terms of their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for users looking for a more resonant typing experience with RGB lighting capabilities. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on these switches a more satisfying experience. Despite the difference in housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and typing feel when using either the CAP Anniversary or Lunar Probe switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch differ in weight. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In comparison, the Lunar Probe has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. Some users may prefer the lighter weight of the Lunar Probe for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference for switch weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the CAP Anniversary provides a slightly deeper press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lunar Probe, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 CAP Anniversary switch is described as having a subtle and satisfying sound profile, while the Lunar Probe switch is noted for its quiet and smooth operation. Both switches provide a relatively quiet typing experience, which can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycap combination chosen by the user.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is known for its snappy, responsive keystrokes, offering a lively and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch provides a creamy and smooth feel, resulting in a buttery sensation with each key press. Both switches offer a unique feel that caters to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer exceptional qualities that enhance the typing experience. The CAP Anniversary boasts a smooth keystroke with minimal wobble, while the Lunar Probe guarantees stable and consistent keypresses with a pre-lubed linear sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a snappy and responsive feel or a creamy and smooth typing experience, you can achieve excellent results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and the unique features of each switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and value a smooth typing experience with minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy consistent keypresses with a pre-lubed linear sensation, then the Lunar Probe could be the ideal switch for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of force, smoothness, and keypress consistency.
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