Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts provide a harmonious blend of thockiness and tactile feedback, offering a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with each key press. The CAP Anniversary is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', 'Polished', while the U4Ts fall under 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Sharp'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness in the plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that are meant to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T features a proprietary plastic blend top housing that delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both housing materials offer unique sound profiles, with the polycarbonate being more crisp and clear, while the Gazzew blend provides a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of bottom housing, the CAP Anniversary uses a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T also uses its proprietary plastic blend for the bottom housing, contributing to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings to distribute the qualities each material brings to the overall sound profile of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gazzew U4T are different, each brings unique qualities to the sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when letting go of a key, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile for both switches. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a premium sound experience that caters to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, whose actuation force is not specified. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Gateron switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the U4T switch may provide a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile 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, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity allows for a consistent typing experience across keyboards using these switches. While some switches may have shorter or longer travel distances, the CAP Anniversary and U4T are evenly matched in this regard. This uniformity can be beneficial for users who prefer a standardized typing experience across different keyboards.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 offers a unique experience with its smooth keystrokes and reduced resistance, creating a quieter typing sound overall. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a deep and rich 'thock' sound profile, paired with sharp tactile feedback for a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the CAP Anniversary focusing on smoothness and the U4T emphasizing a satisfying thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is known for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a responsive and smooth keystroke with minimal wobble. The U4T tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, allowing users to feel a distinct tactile response with each keypress. The polished finish of the CAP Anniversary enhances the overall typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel, while the U4T's sharp tactility is prominent and satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary provides a smoother and quieter typing experience with stability and minimal wobble, while the U4T offers a more pronounced 'thocky' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing styles and offer distinct benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the CAP Anniversary and the U4T will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and stability or sharp tactility and a satisfying sound profile in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize smooth and stable keystrokes with minimal wobble, along with a unique aerodynamic design for enhanced smoothness, then the CAP Anniversary would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfyingly deep 'thock' sound profile combined with assertive tactile feedback for each keypress, then the U4T would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you value smoothness and stability or prefer a tactile and bassy typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for sound and feel.
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