Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, including the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Cherry MX Orange. The CAP Anniversary stands out with its innovative CAP structure, which provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes, enhanced stability, and minimal wobble, qualities that make it ideal for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience. Its unique stem design employs aerodynamic principles and air release holes to reduce resistance, resulting in a typing feel that many describe as snappy, creamy, and polished. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switch resurrects the beloved original MX Orange design, now enhanced with MX2A generation improvements. While information about the MX Orange's key characteristics may be more limited, it is well regarded for its smooth linear action and durability, appealing to users who appreciate a reliable and time-tested switch. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different preferences, but 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
55g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Cherry MX Orange, a clear distinction arises in their top housing construction. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's relative stiffness, which enhances both clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange opts for a nylon top housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound to the typing experience. Nylon's softer nature serves to absorb sound, resulting in a sound profile that is duller and rounder than that produced by the polycarbonate. Consequently, users may find that the CAP Anniversary is more suitable for those who prefer a bright and clear keystroke sound, while the MX Orange may cater to individuals who appreciate a more muted and substantial auditory feedback.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Cherry MX Orange utilize nylon as their material of choice. This shared element ensures that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. Whether it's the CAP Anniversary or the MX Orange, users can expect similar characteristics due to the nylon's inherent properties of sound absorption. Here, neither switch outperforms the other since they are constructed with the same material, allowing for consistent results in how they feel and sound when pressed down. This highlights that while the top housing distinguishes their auditory profiles, the bottom housing provides convergence in their acoustic experience.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials results in contrasting auditory experiences, while the use of nylon for both bottom housings means a shared quality in the sound produced at the bottom-out stage. The varying acoustics from the top housing materials directly influence the auditory cues during specific actions, with polycarbonate enhancing the release sound and nylon enriching the bottoming sound. Therefore, users seeking a distinct type of sound profile will likely be drawn towards either the crispness of the CAP Anniversary or the depth of the MX Orange, depending on their personal preference. However, the consistent presence of nylon in the bottom housing creates a common ground, ensuring that both switches provide a comparable tactile experience as they hit the base of their travel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, we can see notable differences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, while the Cherry MX Orange has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, its bottom out force is currently unavailable. This means that the Gateron switch could provide a slightly easier initial press for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, particularly beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange offers a bit more resistance with its higher actuation force, appealing to users who enjoy a substantial push feel. Thus, for those who lean towards lighter switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary would be preferable, while heavier switch proponents might favor the Cherry MX Orange with its stronger actuation.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, which means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and key responsiveness when using either switch. This equal travel distance allows for a comparable typing experience, with both switches requiring the same distance to be pressed down fully before activation. Consequently, whether one chooses the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the Cherry MX Orange, the result in terms of keystroke travel will be identical, making either option suitable for those who prioritize linear switch characteristics.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 switches are known for their subtle and pleasing acoustics that create a pleasing typing experience without being overly loud or distracting. The unique design elements contribute to a dampened sound profile that fits seamlessly in a variety of environments. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches are equally well-regarded for their reliability and slightly deeper tone, which resonates a bit more due to their construction. The sound characteristics of both of these switches contribute positively to a quality auditory experience; however, the precise auditory profile can be influenced by the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switches excel with descriptors such as snappy, creamy, and polished. Their snappy nature offers a highly responsive typing experience, enhancing the enjoyment of each keystroke. The creamy texture, likely enhanced by factory lubrication, provides a smooth, effortless sensation that feels luxurious under the fingers. Additionally, the polished finish ensures minimal resistance, allowing for fluid key travel. On the other hand, while the specific feel of the MX Orange switches is not detailed here, their reissue is expected to include improvements that maintain the spirit of their predecessors, which were also appreciated for their solid and satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Cherry MX Orange switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The CAP Anniversary is distinguished by its smooth and responsive keystrokes, while the MX Orange holds the promise of a solid typing experience built on its legacy. Users looking for a refined auditory feedback and luxurious feel may lean towards the CAP Anniversary, while those who value reliability may find the MX Orange appealing. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, and users can expect a high level of satisfaction with either choice based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a smooth and polished typing experience, the CAP Anniversary is an excellent choice, thanks to its unique CAP structure that reduces resistance and enhances stability. It has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial switch feedback—ideal for typing and gaming where you want to avoid accidental key presses. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a responsive and snappy feel without the specific characteristics of the CAP Anniversary design, the MX Orange could be your go-to switch. While it may not have the same level of detail in its construction as the CAP Anniversary, it's perfect for those who prefer a straightforward, reliable switch that has stood the test of time. Opt for the CAP Anniversary if you're seeking a refined and high-quality typing experience, whereas the MX Orange serves well for a solid, dependable performance. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and what you prioritize in your keyboard experience.
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