Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is a linear switch known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade is a tactile switch that provides a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound and a punchy tactile bump. While the CAP Anniversary is praised for being snappy, creamy, and polished, the Silent Yellow Jade switch's characteristics are yet to be categorized. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different typing preferences; 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it is clear that both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This means that users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. However, the CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Silent Yellow Jade incorporates a nylon top housing for a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material can lead to a noticeable variation in sound quality and typing experience between the two switches.
While both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the CAP Anniversary sets it apart from the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary produces a more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a sharper and higher-pitched typing sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and rounder sound profile. This variation in top housing material allows users to choose a switch based on their preferred sound and feel when typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade creates a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a common nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a softer, rounder sound when typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch are nearly identical, with both switches having an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the force required to register a key press and to fully press the key down. The medium-heavy weight of both switches strikes a balance between a light typing experience for extended periods of typing and a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will depend on personal preference and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the CAP Anniversary's 4 mm. The shorter distance of the Silent Yellow Jade may be appealing to those who value quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference 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 Silent Yellow Jade 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 is described as offering a quiet typing experience due to its unique CAP structure that reduces resistance and enhances smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches are known for providing a satisfying "thocky" sound, creating a tactile typing experience with a punchy tactile bump. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switches are known for being snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. This responsiveness is often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, making typing feel more lively. Additionally, the CAP Anniversary switches are described as creamy and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches is currently unavailable.
Considering the available information, it can be inferred that the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switches provide a quiet and smooth typing experience with a stable and wobble-free keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switches offer a quiet and tactile typing experience, with a satisfying tactile bump. While both switches may offer different sound profiles and tactile feedback, they both provide unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and stability, the CAP Anniversary switch with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value smoothness and stability or a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile.
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