Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, one can see distinct differences in their design and performance. The CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its innovative CAP structure, providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to aerodynamic principles and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch lacks a standout feature but offers a tactile typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is best suited for users seeking a snappy, creamy, and polished typing feel, while the Milk Tea switch remains a blank slate, allowing for a customizable 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Ly
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
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Milk Tea switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which lead to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a higher-pitched sound compared to other materials, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a very bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing, making it a unique option for those seeking a different tactile feedback.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the CAP Anniversary and the Milk Tea switches feature nylon materials that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This makes typing on switches with nylon bottom housings a more satisfying experience for those who prefer a softer and more muted typing sound. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings enhances the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Milk Tea switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback due to their housing materials. While the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a bright signature that enhances the typing experience. Similarly, both switches' nylon bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more rounded typing experience. Whether one chooses the CAP Anniversary or the Milk Tea, they can expect a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics thanks to the specific housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 50 grams of the CAP Anniversary. However, the bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary at 65 grams is heavier than the unknown force of the Milk Tea. The lighter actuation force of the Milk Tea may make it more preferable for those looking for a lighter typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of force requirements, providing users with options depending on their preference for typing intensity.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them both 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. This can result in similar typing experiences and overall key feel when using keyboards equipped with either of these switches. The uniformity in travel distance allows for consistent feedback and actuation across both switches, making them reliable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a consistent typing experience.
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 Milk Tea 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 CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a quiet typing experience thanks to its unique design that reduces friction and resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch provides a satisfying click sound that many users enjoy. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary linear switch is known for its snappy and polished typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth keystroke with minimal wobble. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch remains unknown at the moment. However, based on the information available, it is likely to provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience similar to other tactile switches in the market.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch stands out for its smoothness and stability, providing users with a quiet typing experience that is both responsive and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offers a potentially satisfying tactile feedback that some users may prefer. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is a great choice. The unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design provide exceptional smoothness and stability, making it a favorite among typing enthusiasts. However, if you prefer a tactile feedback without a specific bottom out force preference, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch could be the right option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and typing experience. So, consider your typing style and preferences before making a choice between the CAP Anniversary and Milk Tea switches.
Mentioned in this article
