Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique features for different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is lauded for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design, providing minimal resistance and enhanced smoothness. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean sound profile. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Duck switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths, but ultimately the choice between them will depend on individual typing preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Yes
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Duck, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile throughout.
While both the CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Duck use polycarbonate in their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary contributes to a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material plays a greater role in the sound when the key is released.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the SP-Star Duck play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material varies between nylon for the CAP Anniversary and polycarbonate for the Duck. This contrast results in distinct sound characteristics, with the CAP Anniversary boasting a deeper sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Duck maintains a consistent clear and resonant sound throughout.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has a none specified actuation force. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the CAP Anniversary at 65 grams and the Duck at 58 grams. The CAP Anniversary offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, while the Duck provides a lighter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Duck for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier push of the CAP Anniversary for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier feel for their keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same for both. As a result, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel with either switch. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of actuation, making them ideal options for those who prefer a consistent typing experience.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound, providing a more subtle and pleasant typing experience. Both switches can deliver satisfying sound quality depending on the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a super responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is characterized as mild, buttery, and polished, providing a more gentle and uniform typing sensation. Despite the differences in descriptors, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary switch focuses on delivering smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the Duck switch provides a more gentle and subtle tactile typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to various preferences, ensuring that users will have a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be an excellent choice. The unique CAP structure of these switches, designed with aerodynamic principles, results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should prioritize your preference for key feel and sound profile, ensuring that your keyboard matches your typing style and preferences.
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