Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, making it a great option for those looking for a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch for a vibrant and energetic typing experience. Each switch offers its own unique advantages, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the translucency needed for RGB lighting, making them visually appealing options for keyboard enthusiasts. However, the CAP Anniversary differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate.
Conversely, the Jerrzi Salt Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the stiffer top housing to create a clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Salt Ice showcases how variations in plastic composition can affect the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the distinction in bottom housing material between nylon and polycarbonate provides users with a range of options to choose from based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience. Whether opting for a deeper and fuller sound with nylon or a crisper and resonant sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to individual preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the CAP Anniversary is heavier in terms of both forces. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is not provided. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might opt for the Salt Ice due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the CAP Anniversary with its heavier forces for a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, with the Salt Ice providing a quicker and more immediate response, while the CAP Anniversary offers a more deliberate and deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 linear switch is known for providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, thanks to its unique CAP structure that minimizes excess air and reduces resistance during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers a more vibrant and clacky sound, adding an energetic touch to each keystroke. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch is often described as snappy, offering a highly responsive typing experience that can make typing feel more lively. Additionally, the switch is known for its creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This is further enhanced by its polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined keystroke. On the other hand, the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is not explicitly described, but its light touch and bright feedback suggest a fast and responsive typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a more energetic feel.
Considering the information provided, it's clear that both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and quiet typing experience with a snappy and creamy feel, the CAP Anniversary switch may be the ideal choice for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a more vibrant and clacky sound with a light and responsive touch, the Salt Ice switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize smoothness and stability in your keystrokes, the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy bright, clacky feedback and a light touch when typing, the Salt Ice switches with their vibrant and responsive characteristics could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to test them out and see which one aligns best with your needs and typing style.
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