Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Red both fall under the linear switch category. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its innovative CAP structure, which provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its aerodynamic stem design and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red doesn't offer any standout features but is still a reliable linear switch. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Dustproof Red lacks any specific categorization. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using either of these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the CAP Anniversary features a nylon construction, while the Dustproof Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to slight variations in sound and feel when typing on the two switches, despite both switches having similar top housings.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Red may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. While both switches offer similar sound characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housings, the nylon bottom housing of each switch may introduce subtle differences in sound and feel. Users looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile may prefer the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary, while those seeking a crisper sound may lean towards the Dustproof Red.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Red is the lighter option. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Red for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the CAP Anniversary for a stronger push. Overall, both switches provide similar performance in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, both switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of key travel experience with either switch. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other since they both have the same travel distance. This makes them equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent key travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Red 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 Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for producing a satisfying and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more silent keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch provides a similar sound profile, offering a quiet typing experience as well. However, individual preferences may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and responsive keystrokes, giving typists a lively typing experience. Additionally, the smooth and buttery sensation of the creamy switch variant provides a luxurious typing experience. The polished finish of the switch ensures minimal friction and a sleek key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch's feel is not specified. It is important to note that the typing feel of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the actuation force and key travel distance.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch offer desirable qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. The CAP Anniversary switch provides a smooth and stable typing experience with sleek keystrokes, while the Dustproof Red switch offers a comparable sound profile and potentially similar feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and setups can help determine which one better suits an individual's typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you prioritize a unique CAP structure that delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and stability, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, then the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and are looking for a reliable linear switch without any specific standout features, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch might be the better choice for you. Consider your typing style, desired feel, and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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