Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Mahjong are two intriguing options to explore. The CAP Anniversary switch stands out for its innovative design, featuring a novel CAP structure that results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes. The aerodynamic principles incorporated into the unique stem, along with tiny holes to release excess air, reduce resistance and enhance smoothness, while the enlarged, hollowed-out stem post ensures stability and minimal wobble, providing a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch captures attention with its distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a lively, poppy sound signature and effortless typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary switch is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Mahjong switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and appeal, providing users with distinct options to suit their 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Mahjong, we can see that both keyboards use polycarbonate for their top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary is praised for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POK top housing of the Mahjong is lauded for its smoothness and durability, making for clacky and long-lasting switches. While both keyboards use polycarbonate for the top housing, they each offer a unique sound profile and feel to cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the CAP Anniversary and the Mahjong use nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder sound. With both keyboards opting for nylon bottom housing, users can expect a similar tactile experience when typing, with a focus on a deeper sound and softer feel. This shared choice of material for the bottom housing suggests a preference for a particular sound profile and typing experience by the manufacturers of both keyboards.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Mahjong, the qualities of each material still contribute to the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a balance between impact on bottom-out sound and feel and impact on typing sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both keyboards strive to offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience through the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings. Ultimately, users can choose between the sharper sound of the CAP Anniversary or the smoother, clacky sound of the Mahjong based on their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Dareu Mahjong linear switches, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary is the heavier option. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Mahjong may appeal to users looking for a softer touch during typing, while the heavier CAP Anniversary switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch have different travel distances. The CAP Anniversary has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mahjong has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mahjong may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time, while the CAP Anniversary's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as having a lively and poppy sound signature, adding a unique characteristic to the typing experience. Both switches offer different sound qualities, providing users with options depending on their preferences and environments.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and responsive feel with minimal wobble. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel. Comparatively, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as bouncy and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. Similar to the CAP Anniversary switch, the Mahjong switch also features a polished finish for smooth key travel.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Dareu Mahjong linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with unique characteristics. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, users can choose between the smoothness and snappiness of the CAP Anniversary switch or the lively and bouncy feel of the Mahjong switch. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and reliability for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and stability, then the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and a bouncy or mild typing experience, then the Mahjong switch could be the perfect fit. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, so make your decision based on what matters most to you.
Mentioned in this article
