Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, both have unique features that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure that reduces resistance and enhances smoothness. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, making it a balanced option for those seeking a tactile typing experience. While the CAP Anniversary is snappy, creamy, and polished, the Violet Gold Pro is stepped and neutral. Both switches have their strengths, but ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. The similarities in their top housing material mean that users can expect a similar sound profile and visual experience from both switches.
However, the differences arise when we look at the bottom housing material of the two switches. The CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that provides a unique typing experience. Similarly, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of overall typing experience, the differences in bottom housing material will manifest in the feel and sound of the switches. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material impacts the sound when a key is released. Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer a well-rounded typing experience, with the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housings allowing users to tailor their preferences based on the desired sound and feel of their keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, which requires 45 grams. Both switches have different bottom out forces, with the CAP Anniversary requiring 65 grams while the Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force is unknown. The CAP Anniversary provides a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a lighter touch, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two 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, which is slightly longer than the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the CAP Anniversary offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Violet Gold Pro. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro, while those who appreciate a more substantial key press may lean towards the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a unique and unorthodox typing experience due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic design, resulting in a potentially quieter typing sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various settings and preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is described as snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced wobble and enhanced stability. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is characterized as stepped, providing a more nuanced tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on whether you prefer a more consistent tactile feel or a two-stage tactile experience.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary stands out for its smooth keystrokes and enhanced stability, while the Violet Gold Pro provides a balanced tactile experience with a neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can achieve a similar level of typing satisfaction with either switch, each offering a distinct typing feel that can cater to a wide range of users. Ultimately, trying out both switches may be the best way to determine which one aligns better with your individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and stable typing experience with medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary switch with its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic design might be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a lighter touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro switch could be your ideal choice. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so consider what matters most to you when deciding between the two. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most.
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