Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences. The CAP Anniversary is a linear switch known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its unique CAP structure, designed with aerodynamic principles to reduce resistance and enhance smoothness. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that maintains smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, while also featuring a neutral sound signature. Each switch is categorized by different qualities, with the CAP Anniversary being described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', and the WS Light Tactile as 'Stepped', 'Neutral', and 'Easy-to-press'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to 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
45g
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
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are very similar, with both featuring polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material provides a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Despite the similarities in housing materials, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer distinct typing experiences due to the distribution of these materials within the switches. The Gateron CAP Anniversary's qualities are split between the top and bottom housing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when a key is released. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile's housing materials likely have a more integrated effect on the overall typing experience, as both the top and bottom housing are made of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively.
In terms of sound and feel, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary, with its polycarbonate top housing, delivers a sharp and clear sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offers a similarly crisp sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, but the nylon bottom housing may contribute to a slightly softer and rounder sound when typing. Overall, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter option. The CAP Anniversary has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in comparison to the WS Light Tactile, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch. The difference in force between the two switches means that users may experience a slightly different typing sensation when using each switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the WS Light Tactile, while individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may prefer the CAP Anniversary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience the same travel distance from the top to the bottom. The two switches are equal in this aspect, as they both provide a consistent and uniform typing experience in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the WS Light Tactile, you can expect similar results when it comes to the travel distance of the switches.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch's profile remains unspecified. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, providing a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a variety of typing environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing experience, offering a super responsive and smooth sensation. This is achieved through a combination of a unique stem design and a stable structure, providing a polished finish to the keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press, featuring a tactile bump that feels mild with gentle resistance. This enhances the typing experience by providing a low-impact and responsive feel, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Taking all of this information into consideration, it is clear that both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the specifics of the CAP Anniversary's sound profile remain unknown, its smooth keystrokes and stability provide a high-quality typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile's neutral sound signature and easy-to-press feel make it a versatile option for various typing preferences. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches offer distinct advantages that will cater to different individuals' preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a snappy, easy-to-press tactile bump, the WS Light Tactile could be the switch that suits your needs. Both switches have their own unique features and benefits, so make sure to consider what qualities are most important to you when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
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