Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Blue mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and functionality. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch that is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its unique CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. This switch provides a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. Clicky switches are generally favored for their tactile feedback and audible click sound, offering a different typing experience compared to linear switches. To choose between these switches, consider whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or tactile feedback and audible clicks in your typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In terms of sound and aesthetic qualities, both switches will provide similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Gateron CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing while the Outemu Blue also uses a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches will have a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Blue mainly lie in their bottom housings while their top housings are the same. The top housing material will impact the sound profile when a key is released, while the bottom housing will affect the sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have similar actuation forces of 50 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users. However, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel compared to the Outemu Blue switch, whose bottom out force is unknown. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Outemu Blue switch, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch's heavier bottom out force may appeal to users seeking a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel regardless of which switch they choose. This can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a certain amount of key travel when typing.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet keystrokes, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is recognized for its distinct clicky sound that provides tactile feedback with each keystroke, which can be satisfying for those who enjoy auditory confirmation of their typing.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is often described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that feels alive. Additionally, it can provide a creamy and polished feel, thanks to its smooth operation and minimal wobble. Conversely, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a different tactile experience with its pronounced click and tactile bump, which can enhance typing accuracy and speed for some users.
Overall, if you were to choose between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch based on sound and feel alone, you would likely get different results. The CAP Anniversary switch leans towards a smooth and quiet typing experience with a variety of feels, while the Outemu Blue switch offers a clicky and tactile typing experience with more auditory feedback. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a different tactile feel and sound, the Outemu Blue switch could be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as typing style, noise level tolerance, and desired key feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics and it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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