Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl are quite remarkable. The CAP Anniversary switches, known for their innovative design and smooth keystrokes, utilize a unique CAP structure and an aerodynamic stem that minimizes resistance. This results in a snappy and creamy typing experience with exceptional stability and minimal wobble, making them a great choice for typists who value both performance and comfort. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switches stand out due to their distinctive ball-bearing system, which significantly reduces friction. This technology creates an almost ethereal smoothness during keystrokes, accompanied by a medium-high pitched sound that many users find satisfying. While both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, their unique constructions cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches, the materials used for their top housings present a distinct contrast in both sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The CAP Anniversary utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material enhances the switch's sound profile by delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, particularly advantageous for users who favor clarity in keystrokes. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting setups, as the light can pass through easily, creating vibrant illumination effects that enhance the visual aesthetics of the switch.
In contrast, the WS Pearl switch features a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material typically contributes to a rounder and more muted auditory experience compared to polycarbonate. While the WS Pearl may not provide the same level of brightness when it comes to RGB lighting due to its less translucent nature, its sound character is preferred by those who appreciate a subdued typing experience. This difference makes the typing experience of WS Pearl richer and less pronounced, appealing to users who prioritize a quieter and more tactile feel while typing.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, which are also made from nylon. This uniformity ensures that both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the WS Pearl will elicit a deeper bottom-out sound due to the acoustic properties of nylon. The softness of this material provides a consistent tactile feedback regardless of the differentiation at the top housing level, reinforcing the typing experience as predominantly rounded and full. Therefore, while users may experience varying sound profiles depending on the top housing material, the nylon bottom housing in both switches guarantees a solid foundation for sound absorption and tactile feedback, resulting in a cohesive overall feel during use.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The CAP Anniversary switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. As a result, the WS Pearl is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for prolonged typing without fatigue, while the CAP Anniversary caters to those who enjoy a more substantial feel with its heavier resistance. Overall, users seeking a lighter experience should gravitate towards the WS Pearl, whereas those desiring a firmer push should consider the CAP Anniversary.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the CAP Anniversary switch offers a more considerable depth when pressed, appealing to users who appreciate a hearty feel in their keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Pearl's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to gamers and others who prefer a quicker response time, as it allows for swifter actuation. Consequently, if someone favors a more traditional, robust typing experience, the Gateron switch would be the ideal choice, whereas the Wuque Studio switch is better suited for those who favor a more responsive, shorter travel. Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary is the longer switch, while the WS Pearl is the shorter one, with each catering to different user preferences.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch delivers a muted yet refined auditory experience, largely due to its innovative structural design and the use of high-quality materials. The design minimizes any rattling or undesirable noise, making it a favorite among users seeking a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch produces a medium-high pitched sound signature that can be more pronounced, especially depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used. While the CAP Anniversary is quiet and subtle, the WS Pearl's sound can be crisp and more distinct, offering a different auditory character altogether.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary switch excels with descriptors like "snappy," "creamy," and "polished." This range of attributes means that users experience a highly responsive typing action coupled with a smooth and buttery sensation, which can be attributed to both its unique aerodynamic stem design and advanced factory lubrication. The result is a typing experience that feels lively yet refined, as each keystroke effortlessly transitions into the next. On the other hand, the feel of the WS Pearl is highlighted by its incorporation of ball-bearings, which drastically reduce friction and create a surreal smoothness during typing. Although the precise adjectives used to describe the WS Pearl's feel may not have been included, it can be inferred that its smoothness competes closely with the creamy and polished sensation of the CAP Anniversary, likely producing an equally satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches present compelling choices for any newcomer exploring mechanical keyboards. The CAP Anniversary focuses on a muted sound profile while delivering a rich and diverse tactile experience characterized by responsiveness and smoothness. The WS Pearl offers a noticeable auditory signature alongside its unique ball-bearing construction, which enhances the fluidity of keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches can provide a premium feel and sound, your preference may boil down to the nuances in their sound profiles and tactile responses, ultimately allowing for an enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, consider your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you're someone who enjoys a medium-heavy force with a snappy and polished feel, the CAP Anniversary would be an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate exceptionally smooth keystrokes and the unique benefits that its aerodynamic design provides. This switch is perfect for users who tend to type quickly and demand responsiveness from their keys. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch and a surreal typing experience characterized by reduced friction, the WS Pearl might be the better fit. The ball-bearings in the WS Pearl ensure a unique sensation that enhances the smoothness of your keystrokes, ideal for those looking for a relaxed and buttery typing experience with a medium sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a snappy, tactile engagement or a smooth, effortless glide during your typing sessions, allowing you to customize your keyboard to best suit your needs.
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