Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh Plum 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 Kailh Plum offer distinct typing experiences. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure designed with aerodynamic principles. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump, providing a unique typing sensation. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Plum is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Stepped'. If you're looking for a smooth and stable typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary might be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a weightier feel without a prominent tactile bump, the Kailh Plum could be the switch for you. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh Plum, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities between the two switches in terms of their polycarbonate top housings suggest that users can expect a similar sound quality and aesthetic appeal from both options.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum also features a nylon bottom housing with similar qualities to the CAP Anniversary, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic in housing material highlights a consistent typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing in both switches results in a sharp sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh Plum contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel from both switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings in each switch ensure a well-rounded sound profile and tactile feedback for users seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. However, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's 65 grams. This means that the Plum switch requires a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience, while the CAP Anniversary provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Overall, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of force required, making them suitable for users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The CAP Anniversary offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth to each key press, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum offers a shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for those looking for faster response times, especially in gaming situations. Both switches have their own advantages based on personal preference, with the CAP Anniversary offering a longer travel distance and the Plum providing a slightly quicker key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to individual preferences and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is known for being neutral, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch also provides a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different usage scenarios. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is renowned for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering responsiveness, smoothness, and refined key travel. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch delivers a mild and stepped typing sensation, providing a gentler feel with a two-stage tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in tactile feedback.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a smoother keystroke experience and stable keypresses, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctive tactile bump that is not overly heavy, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design make for exceptionally smooth keystrokes, enhancing your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force but with a more gentle typing experience and a unique sound profile, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great option. The lack of a pronounced tactile bump sets it apart from other tactile switches, offering a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for smooth linear strokes or a more gentle tactile typing experience.
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