Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Twilight stand out as compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The CAP Anniversary is celebrated for its innovative CAP structure, which delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its aerodynamic design and air-release holes that lower resistance. This culminates in a snappy, creamy, and polished feel that many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight sets itself apart with an extended 3.85mm travel distance, which not only creates a slightly quieter typing experience but also retains the signature clacky sound profile characteristic of HMX switches. While the CAP Anniversary emphasizes smoothness and stability, the Twilight offers a unique combination of travel distance and acoustic feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Twilight, significant differences arise in their top housing compositions. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Twilight features a nylon top housing, which is softer and inherently dampens sound. The nylon's sound absorption qualities produce a fuller, deeper sound profile, leading to a less pronounced and more rounded auditory experience. The contrast between polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing significantly influences the overall sound signature of the switches, particularly during the release phase of the keystroke.
The bottom housings of both switches present an interesting comparison, as they are made from the same nylon material. In both cases, the nylon contributes to a richer and more substantial bottom-out sound. The softness of the nylon allows for sound absorption that adds warmth and depth to the auditory feedback of the switch. Therefore, even though the top housings differ in material and the sound profiles they render, both switches will deliver a similar bass response due to their nylon bottom housings. This commonality in the bottom housing reinforces a fuller typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback when keys are pressed down.
In summary, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and HMX Twilight switches demonstrate how varying top housing materials can drastically affect sound profiles, with the former showcasing a more vibrant and crisp sound versus the warm and muted tones of the latter. Meanwhile, both switches benefit from a nylon bottom housing that harmonizes their sound profiles, providing a solid foundation for overall typing feedback. This dual-material approach illustrates how different housing compositions interact to deliver nuanced auditory results, allowing users to choose switches that align with their personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see a distinct difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX Twilight is lighter, with an actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This implies that users of the Twilight switch may find it easier to type for longer periods or during extended gaming sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter switch. Conversely, the heavier CAP Anniversary switch could appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. Consequently, users seeking a lighter typing experience should opt for the HMX Twilight, while those desiring a stronger push might lean towards the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the CAP Anniversary provides a more traditional feel with its deeper travel, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the HMX Twilight's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuations. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Twilight is the better option. However, if you favor a deeper and more tactile feedback during your keystrokes, the CAP Anniversary would be the more suitable choice with its longer travel distance. Thus, the CAP Anniversary is the longer switch, while the HMX Twilight is the shorter one.
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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch produces a notably quiet typing experience, benefiting from its unique design features that minimize sound while you type. The HMX Twilight also offers a slightly quieter sound profile due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, ensuring it maintains a delicate balance of auditory feedback without being distracting. This resonates well if you prefer a more subdued typing noise, making both switches suitable for environments where noise levels are a consideration. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary switch excels with descriptors like snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a highly responsive, smooth, and refined typing experience. This is attributed to the innovative switch design, which focuses on reduced friction and enhanced key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight’s feel characteristics remain unspecified. If you enjoy a snappy and creamy typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness, the CAP Anniversary is likely to deliver a satisfying sensation, while the Twilight’s performance in this regard remains to be detailed.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch stands out with its exceptional feel and notably quiet sound profile, the HMX Twilight also promises a quieter experience thanks to its extended travel distance. The CAP Anniversary guarantees a highly pleasing tactile and auditory experience owing to its specific design features, whereas the tactile feedback and sensory characteristics of the Twilight are still unaddressed. If you find the CAP Anniversary to be fitting for your typing style, you may enjoy similar smoothness and sound characteristics from the HMX Twilight, but without a clear comparison of its feel attributes.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a more tactile and robust typing experience, the CAP Anniversary switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, is an excellent choice. Its unique CAP structure enhances smoothness and stability, making each keystroke feel snappy and polished, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a quieter typing experience, the HMX Twilight switch, with a bottom out force of just 50 grams and an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, is the way to go. Its design allows for a comfortable and creamy feel, lending itself to longer typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. By evaluating your typing habits—whether you prioritize that satisfying heft and smoothness of the CAP Anniversary or the light, quiet glide of the Twilight—you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
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