Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Gateron CAP Anniversary, known for its smooth and stable keystrokes thanks to its unique CAP structure. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry stands out with its sharp tactile bump that provides a unique typing experience. The CAP Anniversary switch is categorized as ['Snappy', 'Creamy', 'Polished'], while the Blueberry switch falls under ['Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Stiff']. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience, catering to different preferences. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles. The CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can make a significant difference in the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific type of sound from their switches.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing and the NovelKeys Blueberry's POM bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material of the CAP Anniversary absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM material of the NovelKeys Blueberry also produces a deep sound profile that is relatively more muted. This similarity in sound characteristics between the two switches' bottom housing materials may lead to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound depth and richness.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the CAP Anniversary offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Additionally, both switches feature bottom housing materials that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether one prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound will determine which switch is the better fit for their typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch differ in weight. The CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavy option. These differences mean that the CAP Anniversary switch may provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer sessions, while the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that you can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and tactile feedback when using either switch. Whether you choose the CAP Anniversary or the NovelKeys Blueberry, you can be confident that the travel distance will be consistent at 4 mm.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a sound that is lower-than-average in pitch with a clean and sharp resonance. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the CAP Anniversary offering a deeper tone and the Blueberry switch a more immersive sound profile.
In terms of feel, the CAP Anniversary linear switch is characterized by a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. These switches are known for being super responsive, smooth, and refined in their key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and slightly stiff feel. Typing on the Blueberry switches provides a smooth, uniform, and immersive sensation with noticeable friction for those who prefer a tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The CAP Anniversary provides a smooth and stable typing experience with a deep, low-pitched sound, while the Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches will provide satisfying results, but users should consider their specific preferences for sound frequency, typing feel, and overall typing experience to determine which switch is best suited for their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a super smooth and stable keystroke with minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a unique typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to your personal typing style and preference for key feel and sound. Consider your needs and preferences carefully to make the best decision for your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
