Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices the distinct features that set them apart. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its innovative CAP structure, which leads to exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to the aerodynamic design and tiny holes for air release. On the other hand, the Lotus doesn't have a specific standout feature but is known for its linear switch design. The CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', while the Lotus is uncategorized. When considering which switch to choose, the CAP Anniversary may be preferred for its unique design and smooth typing experience, while the Lotus can be appealing for those who prefer a straightforward linear switch. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Lotus switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its relatively stiffer nature, creating a clear and resonant sound profile. In comparison, the Lotus's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound that is duller and rounder, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the CAP Anniversary is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a visually appealing option.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Lotus utilize nylon for a similar deep and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housings of both switches absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in the material used for the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience remains consistent across both switches, with a more muted and softer sound profile. While the top housing may influence the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Lotus will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary offers a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top and bottom housings of the Lotus provide a deeper and fuller sound that is more round and muted, appealing to those who prefer a softer typing experience. Both switches excel in their respective sound profiles, with the difference lying in the specific qualities each housing material brings to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch have differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus offers a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, resulting in a lighter typing feel. The weight of the switch is crucial as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some may prefer the lighter Lotus switch for longer typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier CAP Anniversary switch for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer users a choice between a lighter or heavier typing feel based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Outemu Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron CAP Anniversary. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times due to less distance needed to actuate the switch. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary may provide a more comfortable and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Lotus 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 switch is often described as having a subtle and muted sound profile, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus switch is known for producing a slightly more pronounced and clicky sound with each keystroke. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the overall setup of the keyboard, such as the type of keycaps and the keyboard case material.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its combination of snappy and creamy typing experience. This means that the switch offers a responsive and lively feel with each keystroke, while also providing a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing a delight. In contrast, the Outemu Lotus switch's specific feel characteristics are not explicitly provided in the information provided.
Overall, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it suitable for those who prioritize typing comfort and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus switch is known for its slightly more clicky sound and specific feel characteristics that may appeal to users looking for a different typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Gateron CAP Anniversary. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Lotus may be more suited to your typing style. Additionally, if you value exceptionally smooth keystrokes, stability, and minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary with its novel CAP structure is a great option. On the other hand, if sound and feel are your main considerations, further research may be needed as descriptions for the Lotus are not provided. Ultimately, your choice should be based on how each switch aligns with your personal typing preferences and priorities.
Mentioned in this article
