Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gazzew U4Tx offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, providing a 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds by offering a refined sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound, resulting in a 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp' tactile typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary focuses on smoothness and stability, the U4Tx prioritizes a satisfying tactile bump and acoustically pleasing typing. 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gazzew U4Tx switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4Tx's "boba plastic" blend offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, providing a more mellow typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the CAP Anniversary utilizes a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. The Gazzew blend offers a similarly rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, providing a consistent typing experience across both top and bottom housings. Both types of bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer users a variety of sound profiles to choose from. While the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing offers a rich and deep sound experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary produces a fuller sound, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx delivers a consistent and mellow typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can select a switch that best suits their needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the U4Tx, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the U4Tx has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams compared to the 65 grams required for the CAP Anniversary. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of force required. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the U4Tx for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier feel of the CAP Anniversary for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. The CAP Anniversary with its 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a balanced depth for those who prefer a standard feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower feel, which may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance - whether you prefer the shorter, more responsive feel of the U4Tx or the slightly deeper feel of the CAP Anniversary.
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 U4Tx 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 and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct qualities. The CAP Anniversary switches provide a smooth and refined sound profile, thanks to the innovative CAP structure that reduces air resistance and enhances keystroke smoothness. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a unique blend of a deep, bassy "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet, muted sound when topping out, creating a luxurious and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired, with the CAP Anniversary offering a smoother sound and the U4Tx providing a more tactile and acoustically pleasing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different tactile experiences. The CAP Anniversary switches are described as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive and buttery smooth typing experience with reduced wobble and stability. In comparison, the U4Tx switches are characterized by a sharp tactile bump that offers high feedback intensity, promising a distinct and satisfying tactile response with each keypress. Depending on individual preferences for a smoother, more polished typing experience or a sharper, more tactile feedback, users can choose between the CAP Anniversary and U4Tx switches for their mechanical keyboard setup.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and refined sound profile, paired with a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience that prioritizes stability and minimal wobble. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch offers a distinct combination of deep, bassy sound when bottoming out and quiet, muted sound when topping out, alongside a sharp tactile bump for a high feedback typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience desired, with both switches offering exceptional quality and performance in their respective areas.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth typing experience with minimal wobble and a unique design, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch with its CAP structure and aerodynamic stem would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a refined sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider the feel and sound characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Gazzew U4Tx switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing experience.
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