Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer distinct characteristics for your typing experience. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically-designed stem. This linear switch is ideal for users seeking a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue provides a satisfying clicky feedback without any specific standout features. While the Gateron switch is known for its smoothness and stability, the Outemu switch offers a more traditional clicky 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
65g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Cream Blue switches, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While the bottom housings of both switches are similar in material and sound profile, the differences lie in the top housings.
The Gateron CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition. The nylon top housing of the Cream Blue creates a duller and rounder sound similar to its bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience throughout the switch.
While the housing materials used for the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Cream Blue switches are different in terms of their top housings, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Blue produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, showcasing the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke and bottom out while typing or gaming. The actuation force of 50 grams allows for a relatively light touch, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming marathons. On the other hand, the bottom out force of 65 grams provides a bit more resistance, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a similar amount of key travel when typing on either switch. Despite being equal in travel distance, the switches offer different typing experiences due to their different characteristics. The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch provides a smooth and linear keystroke, ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer consistency. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a tactile feedback and audible click with each keystroke, making it a popular choice for typists who enjoy the tactile response. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between linear or clicky being the main differentiating factor.
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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the CAP Anniversary is known for its smooth and quiet keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Blue is recognized for its crisp and satisfying clicky sound, providing auditory feedback with each key press. It's important to note that individual preferences for sound can vary, and the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary is praised for its snappy and stable typing experience, thanks to its unique stem design and minimal wobble. This gives the user a responsive feel with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch's tactile feedback is described as creamy and smooth, providing a luxurious typing sensation. The lubricated switch offers a buttery feel, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys, resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the CAP Anniversary linear switch is best suited for users looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience with stable keystrokes and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile and clicky feedback with a luxurious and smooth typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard with preferred keycaps would provide a more accurate comparison for a newcomer seeking the perfect mechanical keyboard switch based on sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal resistance and wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and clicky typing experience, the Cream Blue switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired feel when making your decision. Remember, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your overall typing experience.
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