Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Master both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary, a linear switch, boasts a novel CAP structure that ensures exceptionally smooth keystrokes. Its aerodynamically designed stem with tiny holes for air release reduces resistance, resulting in a snappy yet creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master, also a linear switch, offers a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness. While both switches are categorized as polished, the Master leans towards a clacky feel while the CAP Anniversary leans towards a creamier experience. 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Master switches offer different sound profiles and aesthetics. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, particularly suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Master switch boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials contribute to a unique sound experience, the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary focuses on clarity and resonance, while the POM top housing of the Master emphasizes depth and richness in sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The Dareu Master also features a POM bottom housing that complements its POM top housing, creating a consistent deep and muted sound profile throughout the switch. Both nylon and POM provide distinct sound qualities, with nylon offering a fuller sound due to its softer nature, while POM adds a unique and pleasing sound with its deeper tone.
When comparing the overall sound experience of the two switches, it is evident that the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile. The distinct characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon in the CAP Anniversary and POM in the Dareu Master contribute to a varied sound experience for users. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate and nylon combination in the CAP Anniversary focuses more on clarity and resonance, while the POM housing in the Dareu Master emphasizes a deeper and more muted sound throughout the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the Dareu Master linear switch, it is clear that the Master is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the CAP Anniversary is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Dareu Master more suitable, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary with its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the CAP Anniversary. The Master switch would provide a quicker response time for gamers who prefer a shorter travel distance, while the CAP Anniversary switch would offer a more substantial feeling key press. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, but the Master switch leans towards the shallower end, making it ideal for those seeking a faster key response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 operation, thanks to the innovative CAP structure that reduces resistance and enhances smoothness. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch is described as producing a classic clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. Both switches provide distinct audio feedback that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering super responsiveness and a smooth, buttery sensation with reduced wobble. The Dareu Master switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a pleasant typing feel, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on responsiveness and stability, while the Master offers a more approachable and refined feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Dareu Master linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and quiet typing experience with enhanced stability, while the Master switch delivers a classic clacky sound with a gentle and polished feel. Depending on whether you prioritize smoothness and responsiveness or prefer a classic clacky sound with gentle typing, both switches can provide satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master switch may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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