Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Seashell both offer unique features and characteristics to consider. The CAP Anniversary is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. It is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', appealing to those who value a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its stunning purple hue and light, clacky typing experience. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', it offers both aesthetic beauty and functionality. 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
1.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Jerrzi Seashell feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through easily. This material choice results in a clear and resonant sound profile for both switches, making them suitable for users who prefer a more distinctive typing experience.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both the CAP Anniversary and the Seashell offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound that is more pronounced on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in these switches ensures a well-rounded typing experience with a balance of sharpness and depth in sound.
While both switches share similar housing materials in their top and bottom housings, the distribution of qualities between the two materials may vary. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution ensures that users experience a blend of the unique characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon throughout their typing sessions, providing a versatile and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The CAP Anniversary has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Seashell's lighter 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary requires 65 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This suggests that the CAP Anniversary may offer a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and a defined bottom out force. On the other hand, the Seashell may provide a lighter touch for longer typing sessions due to its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Seashell switch the shorter of the two options. The CAP Anniversary switch falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, providing a bit more depth to the keystrokes compared to the Seashell. Gamers may prefer the Seashell for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary more comfortable for typing. In either case, both switches offer unique experiences based on their respective travel distances.
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 Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell 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
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, attributed to its unique CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. This results in a typing experience that is stable, wobble-free, and comfortable. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a light and clacky typing experience, which is enjoyable and delightful over extended use. In terms of sound, the CAP Anniversary's sound characteristics are not specified, while the Seashell is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing sensation. The Seashell, on the other hand, is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished, offering a light and effortless typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Overall, while both switches offer unique qualities, the CAP Anniversary focuses on stability and smoothness, while the Jerrzi Seashell emphasizes a light and clacky typing experience, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and clacky typing experience that is comfortable for long periods, the Seashell switch with its unique purple hue and easy-to-press actuation may be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique features and advantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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