Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Akko Rosewood both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary switches stand out with their innovative CAP structure, which not only delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes but also enhances stability through a specially designed stem that minimizes wobble and a design that reduces resistance. This combination results in a typing experience that many users describe as snappy, creamy, and polished. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches are celebrated for their rich auditory experience, producing a deep and satisfying thocky sound right out of the box, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. While the CAP Anniversary appeals to those seeking smoothness and stability in their keystrokes, the Rosewood entices users with its acoustics and overall tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko Rosewood, significant differences emerge, particularly in the top housing. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. This material not only enhances the acoustic properties of the switch but also offers visually appealing translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood utilizes a nylon top housing, a material that is soft and proficient at absorbing sound. As a result, the sound produced by the Rosewood is considerably deeper and fuller than that of the CAP Anniversary, leading to a rounder, more muted auditory experience when the switches are engaged.

Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as they both use nylon material. This uniformity in the bottom housing means that when typing on either switch, one will experience a similar sound profile—characterized as deeper and fuller—regardless of the variances in the top housings. The nylon bottom housing's softness results in sound absorption, which minimizes the impact of higher frequencies and imparts a more subdued auditory feedback. This continuity in material leverages the unique acoustic characteristics of nylon, ensuring that, while the top sounds may differ considerably between the two switches due to their respective materials, the generalized auditory experience during key presses remains consistent.

Ultimately, the differences between the top housings of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Akko Rosewood significantly influence the switches' overall sound profile, whereas the similarities in their nylon bottom housings create a cohesive experience. Thus, while the CAP Anniversary delivers a cleaner and crisper sound with enhanced brightness thanks to its polycarbonate top, the Rosewood offers a warmer, more rounded sound due to its nylon top. However, users can expect a consistent deep and full sound experience across both switches when engaged, illustrating how the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This divergence means that typists who prefer a lighter touch will find the Rosewood more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may favor the heavier CAP Anniversary switch. Ultimately, the differences in actuation forces suggest that users seeking a lighter typing experience should opt for the Akko Rosewood switch, whereas those who appreciate a firmer response may gravitate toward the Gateron CAP Anniversary.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, allowing for a similar feel when pressing down on either switch. This uniformity in travel distance means that users will experience the same keypress depth, promoting a consistent typing experience across both switches. Since they are equal in this aspect, those looking to switch between the two can expect comparable results in terms of key travel and feedback during use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch remains relatively unknown. The Akko Rosewood switch, however, has gained recognition for its deep, satisfying thocky sound that resonates pleasantly during typing. This auditory quality is achieved through a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which helps to produce that rich acoustic profile straight out of the box. It’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by the choice of the keyboard board and keycaps used with them.

When examining the feel, the CAP Anniversary excels with a variety of appealing traits. The switches are characterized as snappy, offering responsive feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively. Additionally, they provide a creamy sensation, often attributed to the use of lubricants and specific materials that result in a buttery smooth experience. Lastly, the polished finish of the CAP Anniversary enhances its appeal, due to reduced friction and a refined typing feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Akko Rosewood switch is not explicitly noted, leaving it uncertain in comparison.

In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Akko Rosewood linear switches present distinct qualities. While the CAP Anniversary shines in its smoothness and responsiveness, providing a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, the Rosewood is appreciated for its deep thocky sound. However, the unknown qualities of the CAP’s sound and Rosewood’s feel make it essential for users to experiment and discover how these switches perform in real-world typing scenarios to find their perfect match.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. If you favor a heavier keystroke that offers a snappy and polished typing experience, the CAP Anniversary could be your ideal match. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, combined with its uniquely designed stem, guarantees exceptional smoothness and stability, making it great for both typing and gaming sessions where responsiveness is key. However, if you prefer a lighter actuation and enjoy the satisfying auditory feedback of a deep thocky sound, then the Rosewood is likely the better choice. With its 50-gram bottom out force and factory-lubricated design, it provides a creamy, smooth typing experience that feels effortless, perfect for extended typing sessions. In essence, your choice should reflect your tactile and auditory preferences, ensuring that you enjoy your time at the keyboard to the fullest.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more