Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock White Lotus present two unique options for users seeking different typing experiences. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch that offers a delicate tactility without overwhelming the user, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. The White Lotus also features a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock White Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile, perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a premium feel that adds to the switch's overall aesthetic appeal. Both switches use top housing materials that enhance the sound when typing, but they offer slightly different characteristics in terms of sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the CAP Anniversary and the White Lotus utilize nylon materials to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This commonality in bottom housing materials between the two switches means that they are likely to produce similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound profile should not be underestimated, as it plays a significant role in creating the unique typing experience of each switch.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock White Lotus have differences in their top housing materials, they both rely on nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile when typing. The key differences lie in the top housing materials, with the CAP Anniversary using polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound, while the White Lotus opts for a modified PC & UPE Blend for a unique and premium feel. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience thanks to their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch. The CAP Anniversary requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, while the White Lotus only needs 46 grams to actuate and 56 grams to bottom out. This means that the CAP Anniversary provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, perfect for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the White Lotus offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. In terms of weight, the CAP Anniversary is on the heavier side, while the White Lotus is considered medium-light. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience due to their equal travel distances. Whether you choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary or the Durock White Lotus, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
The sound of the CAP Anniversary linear switch remains unspecified, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is characterized as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched nature of the White Lotus offers a deeper, more mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches, creating a pleasing auditory experience ideal for various settings. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary is praised for being snappy, creamy, and polished, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus is lauded for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, providing gentle resistance and a light typing feel that promotes comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience for users, albeit through different tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table. The CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth, stable typing experience with heightened responsiveness, while the White Lotus offers a delicate tactility paired with an emphasis on comfort and ease of use. Depending on personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, users can expect satisfying results from either switch option, tailored to their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and aesthetic desires. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a delicate tactility with vibrant RGB lighting effects, then the White Lotus switch may be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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