Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream provides a heavier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile. While the CAP Anniversary is characterized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the NovelKeys Cream is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Each switch offers distinct qualities that may appeal to different users based on their typing 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, one notable difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature. This makes it ideal for RGB lighting setups, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique acoustic properties, the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary lends itself to a crisper sound, whereas the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream provides a softer overall tone.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both switches use different plastics that contribute to the overall sound profile. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housings. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound experience, with a deeper tone and a more muted sound compared to the top housing. While both bottom housing materials bring their own characteristics to the switches, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary emphasizes a fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream adds to the switch's overall depth and richness.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary provides a sharp and crisp sound, particularly suitable for those looking for a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream offers a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who prefer a softer typing feel. Both switches showcase the importance of top and bottom housing materials in shaping the overall sound profile and typing experience, highlighting the impact that different plastics can have on switch performance.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, with 50 grams versus 55 grams, respectively. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the CAP Anniversary at 65 grams and the NovelKeys Cream at 70 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that while the NovelKeys Cream may require a slightly heavier initial press to activate a keystroke, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will feel similar between the two switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream 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 will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you will get similar results with both switches. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when choosing between these two switches, as they offer the same travel distance experience.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 linear switch is known for its undefined sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and responsive keystroke. The switch is also described as polished, providing a sleek and refined typing sensation. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is characterized by a buttery and invigorating feel, offering a seamless and immersive typing experience. Some users may prefer the textured feel of the Cream switch for added feedback during typing.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary provides a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, while the Cream switch offers a heftier and more immersive typing feel. Whether you choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary or Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch, you can expect a high-quality linear switch that delivers reliable performance and a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience carefully. If you value an exceptionally smooth keystroke with stability and minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier and deep sound profile with a more buttery and invigorating typing sensation, the NovelKeys Cream could be the switch you are looking for. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you personally prefer.
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