Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Red Panda stand out for their unique features and characteristics. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure that reduces resistance and provides stability. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch offering a light-medium amount of tactility with distinct bottom-out and top-out sound profiles. While the CAP Anniversary is praised for its snappy and creamy feel, the Red Panda is loved for its thocky and mild typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Red Panda feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches is especially beneficial for those looking to enhance the RGB lighting effects as it allows for greater light transmission due to its translucency. This material also provides a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to other plastics, making it a popular choice for switch housings in the mechanical keyboard community.
On the other hand, both switches also utilize a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, influencing the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switch.
While both switches share similar housing materials in their construction, the differences between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing and the nylon bottom housing results in a unique sound profile and feel for each switch. The top housing is more responsible for the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials contribute to the individual characteristics and performance of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that they both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams. However, the CAP Anniversary has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. This means that while both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation, the CAP Anniversary will provide a slightly more substantial typing feel when bottoming out keys. The difference in bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Red Panda. Ultimately, the weight of the keys can have a significant impact on the typing experience, with lighter switches being better for extended typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more robust feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker response time with the Red Panda switch, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a bit more depth in keypress, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique typing experience with a focus on smoothness rather than a particular sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is known for its thocky sound, which is deep and satisfying, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, so your choice will depend on whether you prefer a smoother typing sound or a more pronounced thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced wobble. Conversely, the Red Panda switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. While the CAP Anniversary switch focuses on responsiveness and smoothness, the Red Panda switch prioritizes a mild typing experience that is comfortable for extended use.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary switch provides a smooth and stable typing experience with a focus on smoothness, while the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound profile and a mild typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth typing experience with reduced wobble or a more pronounced audio feedback and a gentle typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you should consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble and enhanced stability, the CAP Anniversary may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility alongside a thocky sound and a mild typing experience, the Red Panda could be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Both switches have their unique strengths, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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