Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Piano are both excellent options to consider. The CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its pleasant linear typing experience, characterized by a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Piano is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their own unique attributes that make them appealing choices for different 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

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Piano both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switch. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Piano uses a proprietary POM blend top housing that offers a satisfying and deep sound profile. While the materials are different, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their distinct sound profiles.

In terms of the bottom housing, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon material that leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Piano's proprietary POM blend bottom housing also offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches prioritize sound quality by utilizing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.

When examining the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound profile of the switch, it's clear that each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Durock Piano may use different housing materials, the end result is a similar focus on providing users with an enhanced typing experience through distinctive sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Piano’s unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Piano at 63.5 grams is slightly lighter than the 65 grams required for the CAP Anniversary. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy in terms of force required. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the CAP Anniversary may be more suitable, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Piano. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces to achieve the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results with both switches. Ultimately, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Piano linear switches offer users the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent typing experience across both options.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch provides a unique and smooth typing experience but lacks a specific descriptor for its sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its deep and rich bassy sound signature, offering a pleasant auditory feedback during key presses. When it comes to feel, Gateron CAP Anniversary switches are described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience with minimal wobble. Meanwhile, Durock Piano switches offer a frictionless and silky feel, ensuring an effortless and smooth key press with a gliding push sensation. Overall, while the CAP Anniversary and Durock Piano switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches prioritize smoothness and stability in typing. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or Durock Piano linear switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with minimal resistance and optimal performance.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Durock Piano linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a unique CAP structure that provides exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stability, then the CAP Anniversary may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a deep, creamy sound signature and a gliding push feel when typing, the Durock Piano switch might be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so it is recommended to try them out for yourself to see which one suits your needs and preferences best. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more