Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often have distinct preferences based on the tactile experience and performance they desire. The Gateron CAP Anniversary switch stands out with its innovative CAP structure that delivers exceptionally smooth keystrokes, enhanced by an aerodynamic stem designed to reduce resistance and improve stability. This switch is often described as 'snappy', 'creamy', and 'polished,' making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a seamless and refined typing feel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch offers a heavier actuation force, crafted from a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to softer acoustics while its POM stem produces a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While both switches fall into the linear category, their designs cater to different typing preferences: the CAP Anniversary is ideal for those seeking fluidity and finesse, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users who enjoy a more substantial and pronounced keystroke experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The two switch types, Gateron CAP Anniversary and HMX Xinhai (Heavy), utilize different materials for their top housings, which affects their sound profiles significantly. The Gateron CAP Anniversary employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, making it particularly beneficial for users who favor RGB lighting due to its translucent nature. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, which yields a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a mellower auditory experience, thereby creating a warmer, rounder sound that contrasts with the higher frequencies produced by polycarbonate.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches share a uniform choice, as they both use nylon for this part. This similarity means that typing on either switch will offer comparable characteristics concerning sound absorption and muted resonance. As noted, nylon's inherent properties provide a deeper, fuller sound profile, thus creating a sense of consistency in the auditory experience created by the bottom housing. Regardless of the unique qualities imparted by the top housings, when pressing down on both switches, users will experience the smooth and subdued sound that nylon consistently delivers from the bottom housing.
To summarize, while the top housings of the CAP Anniversary and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) differ in materials and sound profiles—polycarbonate offering a sharper tone contrasted with nylon's deeper resonance—the uniformity of the nylon bottom housing allows for a coherent experience when typing. This diversity in top housing materials allows users to choose according to their sound preferences while still benefiting from the consistent, rounded auditory impact of the nylon bottom. Consequently, the combination of distinct top materials paired with a common bottom housing provides a multi-faceted experience, catering to varying preferences without losing the comforting attributes of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their unique characteristics. The CAP Anniversary features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a slightly firmer actuation force of 55 grams, while its bottom out force is lower at 62.5 grams. This means that the CAP Anniversary switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for prolonged use during work or extended gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch, while having a slightly heavier actuation force, provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, users seeking a smoother typing experience might favor the Gateron CAP Anniversary, while those desiring a firmer feedback may gravitate toward the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a traditional choice that appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced and hearty depth when typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, which caters to users seeking quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. Thus, the CAP Anniversary provides a longer and more satisfying keystroke for those who enjoy a deeper feel, while the Xinhai (Heavy) enables swifter actuation, appealing to gamers who favor a more immediate response. For users comparing these two options, the distinction in travel distance highlights their differing tactile experiences—4 mm for a more robust feel versus 3.4 mm for enhanced speed.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 switch has an indeterminate acoustic profile, but it is generally appreciated for its overall well-balanced sound signature, thanks in part to its smooth keystroke design. The absence of any specified sound characteristics may suggest that it offers a clean and neutral tone, allowing it to be versatile across various typing environments. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch features a unique PA12 top housing that contributes to a softer acoustics profile, resulting in a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback, making typing feel engaging and lively.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary excels with a combination of snappy, creamy, and polished characteristics. This means that users will experience a highly responsive keystroke that feels alive, alongside a smooth and buttery sensation during typing. The polished finish further enhances this experience by reducing friction, leading to a seamless keystroke. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the Xinhai (Heavy) are not disclosed, leaving some ambiguity regarding its tactile response and overall typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch impresses with a solid combination of smoothness and responsive feel, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch stands out for its unique acoustic properties, delivering a crisp sound. If you prioritize a refined typing experience with responsive feedback, the CAP Anniversary may be the more suitable choice. However, if sound is a critical factor for you, the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a distinctive auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches will satisfy varying preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience with their respective strengths.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the specific aspects of your keyboard experience that matter most to you. If you prioritize a smooth, snappy typing experience with a slight creaminess and a polished feel, the CAP Anniversary switch will likely satisfy your needs. Its innovative design featuring a unique CAP structure not only enhances stability but also provides a satisfying bottom-out force of 65 grams, making it a strong choice for those who enjoy a more responsive yet controlled typing experience. Conversely, if you are looking for a switch that boasts a balance of softness in acoustics and a distinctive, higher-pitched resonance, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5-gram force could be more appealing. Its PA12 top housing contributes to a softer sound profile, ideal for creating a serene typing environment. Ultimately, both switches have their distinct strengths, so consider what qualities you value most in your mechanical keyboard setup to make the best choice for your needs.
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