Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Purple offer unique experiences for users. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch that provides a different typing feel. While the CAP Anniversary is often described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Purple does not fall into any specific category. Choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
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
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary and Outemu Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches that use polycarbonate for their top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. The similarities in the top housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when using either switch.
In contrast, the CAP Anniversary and Outemu Purple differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the former featuring a nylon bottom housing and the latter also opting for nylon. Nylon bottom housings are known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the specific design and implementation of the nylon in each switch may still lead to some variation in sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Outemu Purple switches provide users with a unique typing experience. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing the key. This differentiation in housing materials allows for a diverse range of sound profiles and tactile feedback in each switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch in terms of actuation and bottom out force, it is clear that the CAP Anniversary is the heavier option. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple tactile switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Purple switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out force between these two switches offer users a choice between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of key travel. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistency in typing experience and tactile feedback between the two types of switches. While both switches provide the same travel distance, they differ in their overall feel and actuation force. The CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a smooth and linear keystroke, ideal for fast typists and gamers looking for quick and precise inputs. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch provides a tactile bump during actuation, giving users a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 linear switch is characterized by a quiet and subtle typing experience, with a soft and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is known for producing a more pronounced and tactile click sound with each keystroke. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a snappy typing experience, thanks to its super responsive nature. The longer or dual-staged springs in these switches make typing feel more alive. Additionally, the smooth and buttery typing experience of the CAP Anniversary is likened to a silky sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the tactile feedback of the Outemu Purple switch is unknown, but it is expected to provide a different typing experience compared to the linear CAP Anniversary switch.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and Outemu Purple tactile switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary switch excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, while the Outemu Purple switch is likely to offer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the quiet and responsive typing experience of the CAP Anniversary switch or the more pronounced tactile feedback of the Outemu Purple switch to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and enhanced stability, the CAP Anniversary with its CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a snappy, creamy, or polished feel, the Outemu Purple switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value the most.
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