Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that they both offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel cap structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a crisp tactile bump and a deep, resonant sound profile, adding character to each keystroke. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as smooth, polished, and snappy, the Quinn switch boasts a variety of characteristics including being snappy, bassy, polished, bouncy, clacky, accented, buttery, creamy, low-pitched, and resonant. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a more dull and round sound compared to the crispness of the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials.
Both the CAP Anniversary and the Quinn utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. This shared characteristic between the two switches demonstrates the importance of bottom housing material in shaping the sound and feel of a switch. Despite having different top housings, the nylon bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in enhancing the typing experience.
In summary, the choice of housing material greatly impacts the sound profile and feel of a mechanical switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gateron CAP Anniversary creates a sharper, crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Gateron Quinn produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound to create a rounder typing experience. Ultimately, understanding the characteristics of different housing materials allows for customization and optimization of the typing experience in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch with an actuation force of 59 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the CAP Anniversary at 65 grams and the Quinn at 67 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary will provide a slightly lighter typing experience when initially pressing the key, while both switches will give a similar amount of resistance when fully pressed down. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the CAP Anniversary switch, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push may opt for the Quinn switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Quinn has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The CAP Anniversary with its 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, while the Quinn with its 3.4 mm travel distance is shallower. Gamers may prefer the Quinn for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the CAP Anniversary with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 and smooth keystrokes, with minimal sound produced during typing. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile, characterized by a bassy and clacky tone that adds character to the typing experience. The sound produced by the Quinn switch is rich and immersive, providing a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the more subdued sound of the CAP Anniversary switch.
When it comes to feel, both the CAP Anniversary and Quinn switches share some similarities in their descriptions. They both offer a snappy typing experience, indicating a high level of responsiveness during keystrokes. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Quinn switch also features descriptors like bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, highlighting its unique tactile feedback that combines a crisp bump with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary and Quinn switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary switch prioritizes smoothness and stability, leading to a quieter typing experience with minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Quinn switch focuses on providing a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a combination of tactile feedback that is both crisp and smooth. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the quiet and stable performance of the CAP Anniversary switch or the rich and tactile experience of the Quinn switch, ensuring a satisfying typing experience either way.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with minimal wobble and reduced resistance, the CAP Anniversary switch with its innovative CAP structure is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile bump that provides a crisp and resonant keystroke sound, along with a polished and bouncy feel, the Quinn switch is more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value smoothness and stability or tactile feedback and sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your typing preferences and priorities to make the best choice for your keyboard setup.
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