Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Black mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, it's important to note some key differences. The CAP Anniversary is highly regarded for its innovative CAP structure, resulting in incredibly smooth keystrokes due to its aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black does not have any standout features mentioned but is known for its reliability and durability. The CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', whereas the Dustproof Black lacks any specific categorization. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, it's crucial to delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 main difference between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Black lies in their top housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared top housing material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the CAP Anniversary and the Dustproof Black both feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will create a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with stiffer bottom housing materials. This similarity in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Considering the impact of housing materials on switch sound and feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Black will exhibit differences in bottom-out and key release sound profiles. The bottom housing material, nylon, will play a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material, polycarbonate, will influence the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience, with each part of the switch contributing its unique qualities to the overall sound profile. Ultimately, users can expect a combination of sharp, crisp sounds from the polycarbonate top and deep, full sounds from the nylon bottom, creating a balanced and satisfying typing experience with both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Black is the heavier of the two. The CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires 65 grams while the Dustproof Black needs 80 grams, making it significantly heavier. This means that the Dustproof Black will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary's lighter forces may be more suitable for those who want to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches may result in a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a specific distance of keypress. It can be said that both switches offer a consistent tactile response in terms of travel distance.
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 Dustproof Black 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 overall quiet operation with a slight metallic ping, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switch is also relatively quiet, producing a more muted sound compared to other switches. Keep in mind that sound may also be influenced by other components of your keyboard setup such as the keycaps and case.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a snappy typing experience with a responsive feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile response. Additionally, the creamy and polished qualities of the switch contribute to a smooth and refined keystroke. On the contrary, the feel of the Dustproof Black switch is currently unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare it to the CAP Anniversary switch in this aspect.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its smooth keystrokes, stability, and minimal wobble, while the Dustproof Black switch may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and other factors such as price and availability. Keep in mind that while the subjective qualities may vary, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, along with exceptionally smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, and do not mind sacrificing some of the additional features of the CAP Anniversary, then the Dustproof Black switch might be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to ensure they align with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and how each switch's characteristics align with your typing style and preference.
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