Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, each offers unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. This switch provides a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and stability in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, offering a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort. With a 63.5g bottom-out and neutral sound signature, it falls into the categories of 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral', appealing to those who enjoy a tactile response without compromising on overall typing experience. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both keyboards share this polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material.
The CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate of the top housing. Conversely, the Thunder Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, which similarly provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. This material choice impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, offering a contrast to the sharper sounds produced by the polycarbonate top housings.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the CAP Anniversary and Thunder Shadow keyboards showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing materials influence the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the characteristics of these housing materials, enthusiasts can tailor their keyboard preference to their desired sound and tactile response.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we can see that the actuation force of the CAP Anniversary is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Thunder Shadow is not specified. However, the bottom out force of the CAP Anniversary is 65 grams, slightly heavier than the Thunder Shadow's 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required for actuation and bottoming out. The lighter actuation force of the CAP Anniversary may appeal to those who prefer a smoother typing experience, while the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Thunder Shadow may provide a more solid and substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the CAP Anniversary may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 CAP Anniversary linear switch is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, achieved through its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. This results in a typing experience that is stable, wobble-free, and overall very smooth. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a medium weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump, striking a harmonious balance between feedback and actuation force. The Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating typing experience with its reactive feel and pronounced feedback.
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch's sound characteristics are not provided in the information given. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of use cases without being overly loud or quiet. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction.
Considering the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary is described as having a snappy and creamy typing experience, with a polished finish that enhances smooth key travel. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow switch is noted for its invigorating feel, which offers pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation while typing. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on smoothness and stability, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more tactile and feedback-driven typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and stable typing experience, the CAP Anniversary is likely the better choice, whereas if you prefer pronounced tactile feedback and a more invigorating typing sensation, the Thunder Shadow would be the way to go. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you seek. If you prioritize exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stability with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced tactile bump, a harmonious balance, and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific features that align with your typing needs. Make your decision based on the characteristics that matter most to you for an optimal typing experience.
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