Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Everglide Tourmaline Blue both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is loved for its deep and thocky sound profile, accompanied by a bouncy feel with each press. While the CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Tourmaline Blue falls under 'Buttery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different types of typists. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the CAP Anniversary also includes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.

The contrasting bottom housing materials of the CAP Anniversary and the Tourmaline Blue lead to differences in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue maintains a sharp and resonant sound. When typing on these switches, the impact of the bottom housing material is felt during the bottom-out sound and feel, showcasing the unique qualities of each material. The split between the top and bottom housing materials highlights how each component contributes distinct characteristics to the overall typing experience.

Overall, while both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue feature a polycarbonate top housing that produces similar sound profiles, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary provides a deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue maintains a sharper sound. These differences in housing materials offer users a choice between a fuller sound experience with the CAP Anniversary or a crisper sound with the Tourmaline Blue, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing feel and sound of a switch.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that the Tourmaline Blue is slightly heavier in both aspects. The CAP Anniversary requires 50 grams for actuation and 65 grams for bottoming out, while the Tourmaline Blue needs 59 grams for actuation and 67 grams for bottoming out. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing users with a satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance between a lighter touch for extended use and a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, those looking for a slightly lighter option can opt for the CAP Anniversary, while individuals seeking a bit more resistance may prefer the Everglide Tourmaline Blue. However, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a consistent typing experience across different keyboards.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches suggests that users will experience a similar key feel and overall typing experience with both switches. With both switches offering a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect smooth and consistent keystrokes with either option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique experience with a focus on smooth keystrokes rather than a specific sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is described as having a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience. However, sound is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is known for being snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switch is described as smooth and buttery, easy-to-press, and mild, providing a gentle and comfortable typing sensation. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique feel, catering to different preferences.

Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CAP Anniversary focuses on smoothness and stability in keystrokes, the Tourmaline Blue prioritizes a thocky sound profile and a bouncy typing experience. Depending on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, considering other factors such as keycaps and keyboard design can further customize and enhance the overall typing experience with these switches.

Conclusion

In closing, to make the decision between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke with minimal wobble and stable typing experience, the CAP Anniversary may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a deep and satisfying sound profile paired with a bouncy and enjoyable typing feel, the Tourmaline Blue could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer medium-heavy bottom out force, so it ultimately comes down to whether you prefer the unique aerodynamic design of the CAP Anniversary or the immersive sound and bouncy feel of the Tourmaline Blue. Evaluate your priorities in terms of sound and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CAP Anniversary Linear

$4.90

$4.10 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more