Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Mamba mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure, which promotes exceptionally smooth keystrokes through aerodynamic principles and a hollowed-out stem post for stability. It is known for being 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and provides a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. It is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Deciding between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Mamba offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a higher-pitched tone. In contrast, the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a softer tone. While both materials are durable and allow for RGB lighting, they deliver distinct acoustic experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CAP Anniversary utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a popular choice for users who prefer a more muted sound. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba's POM bottom housing creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. Both materials absorb sound differently due to their softness or hardness, resulting in distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, both bottom housings contribute significantly to the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom and top housings are felt differently. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Mamba ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile, with each housing material offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mamba, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Mamba is slightly lighter at 60 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, with the CAP Anniversary offering a slightly heavier typing experience when bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mamba for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the CAP Anniversary for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may result in similar typing experiences for users depending on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, the Mamba has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm compared to the CAP Anniversary's 4mm. The difference of 0.5mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Mamba with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the CAP Anniversary. Both switches offer a satisfying keypress feel, but the slight difference in travel distance can cater to different preferences in terms of typing or gaming style. In this case, the Mamba is the shorter switch while the CAP Anniversary is the longer one. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 CAP Anniversary switch is known for its neutral profile, meaning it strikes a balance between actuation force and sound level, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch is described as thocky, providing a deep and satisfying sound that enhances the typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the CAP Anniversary being more versatile and the Mamba delivering a more immersive sound.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is characterized by its snappy and creamy attributes, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience that feels alive and buttery. Additionally, its polished finish ensures a sleek and refined feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle yet refined typing sensation that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. Both switches excel in offering a polished typing feel, with the CAP Anniversary emphasizing responsiveness and smoothness, while the Mamba provides a softer and approachable touch.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stable typing experience, while the Mamba pays tribute to its namesake with a gliding sensation and rich auditory feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the Mamba, you're guaranteed to get similar high-quality results.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Durock Mamba linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for an exceptionally smooth keystroke with minimal wobble and stable typing, the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation and a rich auditory experience, the Durock Mamba, inspired by Kobe Bryant, offers a unique and satisfying typing experience. Consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it truly depends on what you prioritize in a typing experience.
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