Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
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
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 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.
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