Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Meteor White mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features and benefits. The CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes and innovative design, with a focus on reducing resistance and enhancing stability. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch is known for its gentle and subdued linear feel, providing a soft typing experience with a subtle sound profile. While the CAP Anniversary switch is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Meteor White switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Meteor White, we see that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorption of sound by the softer nylon material. While the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound and feel of typing, the differences in their top housings create distinct characteristics in the switches. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Meteor White's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of the material.
On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the Meteor White's nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the CAP Anniversary allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. In contrast, the Meteor White's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both switches may have a nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Meteor White housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor White produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which adds to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch has a lighter actuation force (weight unknown) and a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The CAP Anniversary offers a stronger push feel for those who prefer a heavier switch, while the Meteor White offers a lighter touch for those who enjoy a smoother typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you can expect a consistent travel distance regardless of which option you choose. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer a comfortable and consistent typing experience with their matching travel distances.
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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 offers a unique and smooth keystroke experience, but the exact sound profile is not specified. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is known for its subdued and gentle sound profile, described as either neutral or thocky depending on the circumstances. While both switches may produce different sound profiles, the ultimate sound experience will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is lauded for its snappy and creamy typing experience, along with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch is described as mild and polished, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches provide a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and SP-Star Meteor White linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary is recognized for its smooth keystrokes and stability, the Meteor White offers a gentle and subdued typing experience. Both switches feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, making them suitable for a variety of users regardless of their preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and comfortable typing experience with either switch option, with the choice between the two coming down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing feel and sound. If you value a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more gentle typing feel with a medium-light bottom out force, the Meteor White may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or a gentle and subdued typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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