Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switch is revered for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. This switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize smooth and stable typing experiences. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is designed for office environments, offering a quiet yet tactile typing experience ideal for professional settings. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', and 'Subtle', it provides a balance between subtle sound and light actuation. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Mountain Top switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in top housing material play a significant role in the overall sound produced by each switch, catering to different preferences for sound aesthetics.
Both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing material, utilizing nylon for this component. This commonality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that the typing experience remains consistent across both switches, despite the differences in their top housing materials. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a rounded and dull sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound profile.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom components of these switches leads to distinct characteristics in sound and feel. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of each component in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. In contrast, the Mountain Top switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top switch may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the CAP Anniversary switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mountain Top switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the key press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the CAP Anniversary switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how each individual user likes their key presses to 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 Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various use cases. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a quiet typing experience ideal for professional environments. The sound produced by a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used alongside it.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary provides a snappy and creamy typing experience due to its refined design and smooth keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. Both switches offer unique sensations that cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Mountain Top switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Mountain Top switch focuses on quietness and ease of use, particularly in office settings. Ultimately, both switches offer exceptional performance and cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, stable typing experience with a snappy or creamy feel, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a quiet, easy-to-press typing experience with a bouncy or subtle feel, the Mountain Top switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and environment to ensure an optimal typing experience.
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