Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Gateron CAP Anniversary is revered for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. Described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', this switch promises a satisfying typing experience with minimal wobble. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch lacks specific standout features but is known for its tactile feedback, which some users prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for smoothness versus tactile feedback. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the overall sound profile and typing experience. The CAP Anniversary features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both provide unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches opt for a nylon material, which contributes to a consistent sound profile that is deeper and fuller. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a cohesive typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the characteristics of the nylon material in both switches. Despite having different top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing maintains a commonality in sound profile between the CAP Anniversary and the Cream Yellow switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches showcases how different plastics can influence the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the polycarbonate top housing of the CAP Anniversary offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow provides a deeper and fuller typing experience. The shared nylon bottom housing between the two switches ensures a consistent sound profile, demonstrating how the choice of materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow is the lighter option in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow provides a lighter typing experience overall. However, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, which means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel despite the slight difference in weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm compared to the CAP Anniversary's 4 mm. The Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the CAP Anniversary's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, but ultimately the decision between the two comes down to individual preference regarding travel distance.
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 Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10 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 CAP Anniversary is described as providing a subtle and muted sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow is known for producing a satisfyingly tactile and audible click with each key press, catering to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced sound feedback while typing. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by these switches can vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary is praised for its snappy and responsive actuation, giving typists a lively and dynamic typing experience. The Cream Yellow, on the other hand, offers a creamy and smooth tactile sensation, allowing for effortless keystrokes that feel like gliding across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Cream Yellow's polished finish enhances the overall typing experience by providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a smooth and stable typing experience with minimal wobble, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience with a creamy sensation, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch would be a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. Keep in mind that while the specific qualities may differ, using either switch would result in a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is important to consider your typing preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and stable typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a tactile feedback with a smooth and buttery typing sensation, the Cream Yellow could be the ideal switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences to ensure the best possible typing experience.
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