Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary, a linear switch, and the Outemu Silent Grey, a tactile switch, a few key differences stand out. The CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its unique design featuring a novel CAP structure. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the CAP Anniversary switch is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Silent Grey switch lacks specific categorization. Depending on your preference for smoothness versus tactility and noise level, you may lean towards one switch over the other. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Grey switches lies in their respective top housings. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite both switches having the same top housing material, their overall sound profiles may still differ due to other factors such as stem material.
On the other hand, both the CAP Anniversary and the Silent Grey feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. While the bottom housing may have a larger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the use of nylon in the bottom housing can contribute to the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying and tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Outemu Silent Grey switches allows for a unique typing experience. While both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches adds depth and fullness to the sound profile. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials affects how the switch feels and sounds both when pressed down and when the key is released. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon, both switches offer a different but equally satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we find that they both have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of force required for keystrokes. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the amount of force needed to press the keys. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, both switches would be a suitable choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, both switches may feel medium-heavy. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to factors other than actuation and bottom out force, such as key travel distance, sound levels, and overall typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience with both switches will be very similar in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the Silent Grey, you can expect to get consistent and reliable key presses with the same travel distance in either case.
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 Silent Grey 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 known for its quiet operation due to the unique aerodynamic design that reduces excess air release and resistance, resulting in a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is specifically made to offer a quiet typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. The sound produced by both switches will greatly depend on the overall build of the keyboard and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, offering a highly responsive typing experience. This is achieved through a special stem design and enlarged stem post that ensures stability and minimizes wobble. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey switch provides a tactile and smooth typing experience with a pronounced bump for feedback. The Silent Grey switch may not provide the same level of snappiness as the CAP Anniversary, but it excels in delivering a satisfying typing experience with its tactile feedback.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with its innovative design, while the Outemu Silent Grey switch focuses on offering a quiet and highly tactile typing experience. Whether you prefer a snappy and responsive feel or a quiet and tactile typing experience, both switches will deliver excellent results depending on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and stability, the CAP Anniversary may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, the Silent Grey switches are worth considering. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel of each switch to further narrow down your choice. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!
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