Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure. This switch is known for being 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', offering a unique typing experience with reduced resistance and enhanced smoothness. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring, which results in deep and resonating thocks when typing. This switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable choices 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound profile.
The difference in bottom housing material between the CAP Anniversary and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring leads to distinct sound profiles when typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the variation in bottom housing material showcases how different housing materials affect the sound and feel of a switch. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the CAP Anniversary offers a blend of sharpness and depth in sound, while the dual polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring emphasizes clarity and resonance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we see that the CAP Anniversary is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Shadow's 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between light typing for extended periods and a more substantial typing experience. Overall, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the CAP Anniversary, while those who prefer a heavier bottom out force may prefer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing habits and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. Users can expect consistent feedback and actuation force from both switches, resulting in a familiar feel regardless of which one they choose. The similarities in travel distance make them equally suitable for typing enthusiasts looking for a precise and reliable switch option.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer unique characteristics. The CAP Anniversary switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and minimal wobble, resulting in a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, adding a crisp and percussive element to each keystroke. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by the keyboard, keycaps, and other factors in the setup.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, on the other hand, is known for its sharp tactile feedback, accentuated tactility, snappiness, bounciness, and stepped feel. These qualities provide a distinct and lively typing sensation that is responsive and engaging.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both excel in different areas. The CAP Anniversary switch focuses on smoothness and stability, resulting in a quiet typing experience with minimal wobble. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers medium-high tactility and a unique two-staged spring design that delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with sharp tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you desire a medium bottom out force and seek a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel of each switch variant to ensure it aligns with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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