Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer different experiences. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to its unique aerodynamic stem design and reduced resistance. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is favored for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, ideal for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Yellow Silver is categorized as 'Neutral'. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
Where the two switches differ is in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. While the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver share similarities in their top housing material, the use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a unique typing experience for each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the respective housings of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver splits the qualities each material brings to the overall typing feel and sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, with distinct characteristics attributed to their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Yellow Silver is lighter in both regards. The CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Yellow Silver a better option for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary provides a slightly heavier typing experience, which some may find more satisfying for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance allows for consistent typing experiences and tactile feedback. No matter which switch you choose, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key press depth and 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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver both offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. The sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so both switches provide a versatile option for users looking for a moderate sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary is known for its snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is not specified. However, based on its light actuation force and favorability among gamers and typists who value speediness and responsiveness, it can be assumed that the Yellow Silver switch provides a similar smooth and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer desirable qualities for different preferences. The CAP Anniversary stands out with its smooth keystrokes, stability, and minimal wobble, creating a superior typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch caters to users seeking a light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble, the Gateron CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a light actuation force for speediness and responsiveness, the Outemu Yellow Silver could be the switch for you. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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