Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its innovative CAP structure, providing exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its aerodynamic stem design with tiny holes for reduced air resistance. On the other hand, the Ocean switch lacks any standout features but offers a more traditional typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is ideal for those seeking a snappy, creamy, and polished typing feel, while the Ocean switch remains a more neutral option. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Ocean utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. In terms of sound quality, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent and pleasing typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the CAP Anniversary and the Ocean is made of nylon, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to polycarbonate. Despite the difference in material between the top and bottom housings, the nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This provides a unique tactile sensation that complements the crisp sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Ocean differ in their housing materials for the top and bottom, both switches offer a balanced combination of qualities that enhance the typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon bottom housing brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a crisper feel or a more rounded sound with a softer feel, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it's clear that the CAP Anniversary is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary is heavier at 65 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. The CAP Anniversary offers a medium-heavy feel, perfect for those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Ocean's force remains a mystery. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the CAP Anniversary for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. In terms of comparing and contrasting the two, they offer equal travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of the feel and feedback when using either switch. Both switches provide a standard amount of travel distance in the keystroke, allowing for a satisfying typing or gaming 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 Ocean 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 is known for providing a quieter typing experience compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The unique stem design of the CAP Anniversary helps to dampen the sound of key presses, resulting in a more subtle and refined auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch may produce a more pronounced sound due to its tactile nature. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a variety of descriptors including snappy, creamy, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a responsive, smooth, and refined typing experience. The combination of a unique stem design and a stable structure contribute to a satisfying tactile feel when typing on the CAP Anniversary switch. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, as specific descriptors are not provided. However, given its tactile nature, it can be assumed that the Outemu Ocean switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the linear switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary is known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet sound profile, providing a refined typing experience with a variety of feel descriptors. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch may offer a more pronounced tactile feedback and potentially louder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and sound characteristics. Additionally, it is important to consider other factors such as keyboard setup and keycap selection, as these can also impact the overall typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should opt for the CAP Anniversary if you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability. The CAP Anniversary's unique CAP structure, aerodynamic stem design, and reduced air resistance result in a silky typing experience that minimizes wobble. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback and potentially lighter actuation force, the Outemu Ocean switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles.
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