Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure, while the Haimu Neo White stands out with its medium weight and smooth actuation. The CAP Anniversary switch is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', making it ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and stability in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Neo White switch is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', offering a distinctive typing feel with a slightly reduced total travel. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Haimu Neo White switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic qualities when typing.
On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary and Neo White switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the CAP Anniversary utilizing a nylon bottom housing while the Neo White also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, users can still expect a similar typing experience with both switches due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Haimu Neo White switches creates a unique sound profile that balances sharpness and fullness. The impact of each housing material is felt differently when typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with the right balance of acoustics and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it is clear that the CAP Anniversary is the heavier option. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison to the Neo White, which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 58 grams, putting it at a medium weight. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Neo White would be the better choice, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary would suit those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight preferences of the individual user.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Neo White has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The Neo White's 3.6mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, who value speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary's 4mm travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences regarding travel distance and key 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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a slightly reduced total travel and a medium weight, contributing to a distinctive typing feel. Both switches may provide similar results in sound depending on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a super responsive, smooth, and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch is known for its mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. While the two switches offer different qualities in feel, both aim to provide a comfortable typing experience for users.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing smooth keystrokes and stability, while the Neo White stands out with its distinctive typing feel and smooth actuation. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the snappy and polished Gateron switch or the mild and approachable Haimu switch to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, you may want to consider the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch. The novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design provide for exceptionally smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble, enhancing your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a distinctive typing feel with a medium weight, the Haimu Neo White linear switch may be the better choice for you. The use of a Ly stem in the Neo White switch contributes to a smooth actuation and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force, smoothness, and overall typing feel.
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